Welcome to Waiapu Kids Te Hapara Whānau Aroha
Waiapu Kids Te Hapara Whānau Aroha is a community-based early childhood education centre and service of Anglican Care Waiapu. We provide quality care and education for up to 50 tamariki with space for 20 tamariki under the age of two years. Our centre is situated in Te Hapara, Gisborne.
We celebrate tamariki identity and provide rich and meaningful opportunities to explore and play in a safe and caring environment where kaiako (teachers) are able to provide support and manaaki to all.
Whānau play a huge part in the lives of tamariki and we welcome and encourage whānau support and input. We communicate regularly with parents and whānau so that together we can nurture tamariki in our centre in their learning and exploration.
We value tamariki play as the way in which they learn about the world around them. Opportunities are provided for children each day to extend their interests, practice tuakana/teina relationships, develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills, build self-confidence, creativity, and independence.
Our Community
We have a great relationship with our local community and enjoy attending Kapa Haka festivals and going on excursions within the local area. Taking part in community events enables tamariki to grow their sense of belonging and identity, and models how we as a centre positively contribute to our community.
Our Philosophy
Tamariki are at the heart of what we do. We create an environment where whakapapa is celebrated, enriched by the dual cultures of Aotearoa.
Children’s social and emotional wellbeing – mana atua – is nurtured while fostering relationships with whānau, iwi, and hapu.
Tamariki are engaged in fun and authentic learning while immersed in play. We empower tamariki to learn and grow through active exploration underpinned by Christian values and beliefs.
Anglican Care Waiapu
We are part of Anglican Care Waiapu (ACW), an organisation delivering a range of social services throughout Bay of Plenty, Eastland, and Hawke’s Bay. You can find out more about ACW here.
As part of ACW and its Early Childhood Education Service, Waiapu Kids, we incorporate this philosophy into our practice and teaching:
“Waiapu Kids Early Childhood Education Services believe that each child is unique and created in the image of God.
Jesus showed a special care and respect for tamariki. This belief guides our practice and our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tangata whenua, and the wellbeing of children and their whānau.”
Anglican Care Waiapu is committed to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi and safeguarding them from harm or abuse. We take this commitment very seriously. Our Child Protection Policy is in line with the Vulnerable Children’s Act 2014 and must be adhered to by all staff and volunteers.
You can read the policy here.