A Preschool Built for Quality-Focused Families
St Heliers parents understand that early childhood education sets the foundation for lifelong learning. That’s why our small, intimate preschool appeals to families who want more than institutional childcare.
We’re genuinely boutique. Low teacher-to-child ratios mean your child isn’t lost in a crowd. Our hand-picked teaching team knows every child’s personality, interests and learning style. This personalised approach simply isn’t possible in larger centres.
Convenient Access from St Heliers
The quick drive from St Heliers to our Kohimarama location takes approximately 5 minutes via Tamaki Drive. We have a driveway for convenient drop-off and pick-up right at our entrance. Many St Heliers families use nannies for childcare coordination, making the short trip seamless.
Progressive, Child-Led Learning
Our programme follows Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, with an emphasis on child-led exploration and inquiry learning. Children aren’t following rigid lesson plans. Instead, they’re pursuing their curiosities with teacher guidance.
We change our materials and provocations weekly. One week children might explore shadows and light, another week focuses on construction and engineering concepts. This rotation keeps the environment dynamic and engaging.
School Readiness Through Play
St Heliers families often ask about school preparation. Our approach develops the foundations children need, confidence to try new things, ability to work independently and with peers, problem-solving and critical thinking skills, communication and self-expression, and emotional regulation and resilience.
These capabilities matter more than early academic drilling. Children who feel confident, capable and curious become enthusiastic learners when they reach primary school.
Experienced, Passionate Teachers
Teaching quality matters enormously in early childhood education. Every member of our team is qualified, experienced and personally selected for their passion and expertise. Meet our teaching team.
What a Day Looks Like
Our daily rhythm provides structure while allowing flexibility for children’s interests. Morning begins with circle time for connection and planning. Extended play periods allow deep engagement with materials and activities. Outdoor time happens daily, regardless of weather, supporting physical development and nature connection. Mealtimes are social, unhurried occasions. Quiet rest time gives younger children sleep and older children peaceful downtime.
We operate Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm. Most families attend 4-5 days per week, providing consistency for children. Learn more about our programme.
Supporting Professional Families
Many St Heliers families juggle demanding careers with parenting. Doctors, lawyers, business owners and other professionals need reliable, quality childcare that doesn’t compromise on educational values.
We understand these demands. Communication is straightforward, whether you’re coordinating directly or through your nanny. We handle the educational details so you can focus on your work, confident your child is learning and thriving.
Eastern Auckland Families Welcome
While we’re ideally located for St Heliers families, we also serve children from throughout eastern Auckland. The presence of nannies in many families’ arrangements means geographic distance matters less than programme quality.
Other suburbs we serve:
Mission Bay Preschool – Orakei Preschool – Parnell Preschool – Remuera Preschool – Glendowie Preschool
Questions from St Heliers Parents
Where exactly are you located?
36 Allum Street, Kohimarama, approximately 5 minutes from St Heliers village via Tamaki Drive.
What ages do you accept?
We care for children aged 2-6 years.
What are your hours?
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm.
How many days per week do children attend?
Most families choose 4-5 days per week for consistency.
What are your fees?
Please contact us at (09) 528 7970 or [email protected] to discuss fees and availability.
Do you have availability?
Spaces fill quickly given our small size. Contact us to discuss current availability or join our waiting list.
Is there parking?
Yes, we have a driveway at our entrance for convenient drop-off and pick-up.
Why does your domain say “montessori”?
We were founded in 2004 as Kohimarama Montessori Preschool. Under new ownership from 2025, we’ve evolved to a progressive, play-based approach grounded in Te Whāriki. Our domain reflects our heritage, but we’re not a strict Montessori programme.
What makes you different from larger childcare centres?
Our small size allows genuine relationships between teachers and children. Low ratios mean personalised attention. Our hand-picked team brings exceptional qualifications and passion. We’re family-centred rather than institutional.
Book a Visit
St Heliers families are welcome to tour our preschool, meet our teachers and experience our programme firsthand.
Get in touch:
Phone: (09) 528 7970
Email: [email protected]
Address: 36 Allum Street, Kohimarama, Auckland 1071