Playcentre Aotearoa

We are a nationwide charity with ~400 centres located throughout the country. At each centre you will find a supportive, fun and friendly environment for you and your child. Playcentre is founded on what is best for young children’s development: unlimited opportunities for self-directed, free play; responsive, respectful, loving relationships. At Playcentre, ako sits at the heart of our practice. Ako is the concept that learning and teaching go hand in hand. Our Māori name is “Te Whānau Tupu Ngātahi” – families growing together – and this describes the support we give to parents and caregivers as they care for the tamariki in their lives. Because our learning journey is never over, we encourage parents to take part in our excellent educational opportunities. Our free NZQA programme supports the informal learning taking place in a centre, leading to an expansion in parenting and early childhood education skills for anyone keen to learn.