Kidsfirst Kindergartens Rutland Street

I feel so grateful I decided to duck up the driveway “just for a quick look” nearly two years ago. My two children (with very different personalities) have thrived here. The children have access to an abundance of resources to engage with, messy play and lots of it every single day and a huge outdoor space to explore and move (plus shaded areas for the harsh NZ sun). But what makes this place truly spectacular is the teachers. I’ve met many as a parent and professionally and Jo, Kelly and Miranda are truly some of the best you’ll find. Fun, naturally nurturing, so knowledgeable and they know every individual child in great depth. When the children show interest in anything, they follow their lead and ensure the environment is set up to support this interest - bugs, dinosaurs, weather etc! No issue is too big. I would discuss anything with any of them comfortably. They model and teach the children kindness and respect and support school readiness beautifully in a way that is still very fun and understanding of how little they are. They deal with behaviour issues respectfully and without judgement. I cannot sing their praises enough. I recommend this kindergarten to anyone and everyone and am excited for my littlest to start when she turns two. I’ll finish this review by saying my son is disappointed on the weekend when it’s not a “kindy day” and he barely says goodbye to me when I leave. He knows he’s safe and going to have the best day every day. Thank you Rutland St Kindy!

5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We feel incredibly lucky to have been part of Rutland Street KidsFirst Kindy over the past two years. The care and love shown to my daughter by the gentle, nurturing teachers has been truly beautiful. Their commitment to creating a safe, caring, and community-focused environment is something very special. It's clear the team genuinely love what they do, and it shows in how happy and settled the children are. We're very sad to be leaving — and only because of work commitments — otherwise we'd stay as long as possible! If you're looking for a kindy where your child will be cherished, supported, and encouraged to grow, this is hands down the best one around. We can’t thank the amazing team enough for everything they’ve done for our little one and our family.

Could not recommend enough. The most beautiful, nurturing, engaging, and fun kindy. The teachers, Jo, Kelly, and Miranda are fantastic. They are warm, loving, fun, and so knowledgeable. They are dedicated to really knowing each child, and supporting their individual needs and interests. The activities and resources are ever changing and varied. The outdoor space is magical. My three children have all attended, and it really is like a family. I have a child who is neurodivergent, and their support in this has made such a difference to my daughter (and me!). Their engagement with the Ministry of Ed for diagnosis and support, and their hard work going the extra mile and been so appreciated. There will be tears when we leave!