A warm, not-for-profit early childhood centre on AUT's Akoranga campus - proudly serving the Northcote whānau since 1988.
Akoranga Childcare Centre Inc. was established in 1988 and has been a cornerstone of the Northcote community ever since. We are a mixed licensed centre, catering for 42 children - 34 over two years, and 8 under two years.
We are governed by a parent management committee elected annually at our AGM, with all families invited to be members and contribute to the direction of the centre. Every fundraising drive, every resource purchase, and every decision is made with our tamariki at the heart.
"To empower children with a positive growth mindset as the foundation for life-long learning."
We believe children are active, capable learners. We offer them time and space to progress at their own natural pace - experiencing meaningful learning through play.
We empower children to be confident, competent contributors to society and caretakers of a world where caring for the environment is not just a lesson, but a way of life.
"We teach with heart and work in partnership with children, whānau, and the community to support, encourage, inspire, and thrive."- Akoranga Childcare Centre Philosophy
Every cent goes back into resources for our tamariki. Our parent management committee ensures the centre reflects the values of the families it serves.
All our teachers hold full qualifications and registration - so you can trust your child is learning and growing with the very best.
Located at Gate 2, 90 Akoranga Drive - ideal for AUT students and staff, and a short commute from Northcote and the wider North Shore.
Older children mentor younger ones in our shared environment - building confidence, empathy, and a genuine sense of belonging for everyone.
Our diverse kaiako bring languages and cultures from across the world, creating a rich, globally-minded learning environment for every child.
Our fantastic outdoor area gives children room to run, explore, and connect with Papatūānuku - consistently praised by families in our reviews.
While our standard day is 8:30am – 3:30pm, we offer extended care from as early as 7:30am to as late as 5:00pm. Talk to our staff for specific pricing and availability.
We provide something special that few other centres offer: morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea, all prepared fresh on-site every single day.
Good nutrition is the foundation of a child's energy, focus, and development. That is why our revolving menu is carefully designed, proudly earning the Heart Foundation Bronze award to ensure every meal is balanced and kid-approved.
"Simply perfect."Maree the centre manager and Helen the admin are extremely talented and helpful. Teachers are so great - spacious, safe, and full of life. The moment you step in, it feels just like home. A truly warm and homely daycare where children thrive.
"Incredibly popular."I had to secure a spot when I was only three months pregnant! A colleague recommended it and I'm so glad they did. I especially love the culture - the staff genuinely care for every child.
"Such an epic child care centre."The staff are all lovely and kind. Kids have different activities available every day and they really support each individual child's development and growth. Highly recommend.
"A truly special place."A warm, welcoming and nurturing atmosphere where children are genuinely happy and cared for. The passionate teachers create a fantastic, child-led learning environment unlike anywhere else.
"Wonderful management."Maree puts a lot of aroha into the centre, the kaiako, the whānau and the tamariki - and it is reflected in how happy the children are every single day. The outdoor space is awesome too!
"Kiddo loves it here."Very friendly staff. Our child has a blast every day. Multi-lingual teachers, frequent community activities, and great families make this a truly special place to grow up.
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Maree leads Akoranga with heart and expertise. Consistently praised by families for her warmth, talent, and dedication to both tamariki and kaiako.
Helen keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes - from enrolments and accounts to ensuring every whānau feels supported.
Having served on the board for over a year, with one child recently graduating to primary school and another still thriving at the centre, I am committed to making Akoranga an amazing place for all our children.
Yvonne and her husband, George, have been active members of the parent management committee for over a year. She brings a vital, family-focused perspective to her role as Board Secretary.
Our 100% qualified, multi-lingual team brings genuine passion and aroha to every moment. Click to meet the teachers.
"I'm passionate about learning and sharing ideas to foster young minds and creating enriching learning environments. I value collaborating with tamariki, kaiako, and whānau and ensuring tamariki success."
"For me, teaching is about forming genuine connections with tamariki and their whānau, being fully present in their learning journey, and nurturing an environment where every child feels loved, respected, and supported."
"Kia ora, I'm a proud Kiwi born and bred. I enjoy cooking, gardening, hiking, and restoring furniture in my spare time. I look forward to walking alongside your tamaiti on their learning journey here."
"Having grown up in this community and now raising my own family here, I appreciate the joy of building connections with the people and environment around me. I enjoy supporting tamariki to discover their interests and strengths and celebrating their unique learning journeys."
"I love discovering the world with children. I believe every adventure is a chance to learn something new."
"I am a friendly and positive teacher who loves sharing laughter and meaningful learning experiences with tamariki. I enjoy exploring the strengths and interests of tamariki, empowering them as confident and competent learners and helping them succeed on their learning journey."
"My teaching philosophy is driven by the values of Whakawhanaungatanga and Kotahitanga, fostering connections to build genuine relationships and a sense of belonging so that children feel seen, heard, and safe to be themselves, confident to participate and contribute, and be empowered to lead their own discoveries. I take pride in providing a safe and inclusive learning space for all children."
"I love travelling, learning new languages, and believe in scientific spirituality, which gives me a strong sense of belonging in Aotearoa. I enjoy working with tamariki because they bring joy and happiness into my life, and I believe in building warm, reciprocal relationships based on aroha, respect, and learning together."
"It's a joy to empower our tamariki with cultural awareness and a humanistic outlook to enable them to build a bright future."
"I may be a quiet person, but when it comes to food, I am full of passion and love creating meals for others."
Enquiries and registrations are securely managed through our parent portal. Click below to open the registration form.
Open Enquiry Form ↗
