Rutherford Street Kindergarten

Rutherford Street Kindergarten, also known as Te Puna Kōhungahunga o Piki Mai, has been providing early childhood education in Nelson for over 60 years. This not-for-profit centre offers a nurturing and inclusive environment for children aged 2 to 6 years. With a maximum capacity of 32 children, Rutherford Street Kindergarten focuses on creating a respectful atmosphere where educators, or kaiako, work closely with families to support each child's learning journey. The centre aligns with the principles of Te Whāriki, aiming to empower children to become confident learners and communicators while valuing their unique contributions to the community.

Located at 233 Rutherford Street in Nelson Central, the kindergarten is easily reachable for families in the city and surrounding suburbs. The centre is designed to be welcoming and community-oriented, governed by a board comprised of parents and local community members. Parents are encouraged to bring their children for a minimum of two full days each week to help them settle in and make the most of the educational opportunities available.

Rutherford Street Kindergarten operates from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, allowing flexible attendance arrangements. While the preferred minimum attendance is six hours for government funding purposes, shorter sessions can be arranged. Children are asked to bring their own lunchboxes, and the centre provides rolling morning and afternoon tea, fostering a communal dining experience. The kindergarten remains open throughout the year, closing only for two weeks during the Christmas and New Year period, as well as on weekends and public holidays.

The centre places a strong emphasis on play-based learning, encouraging children to engage in messy play and outdoor activities regardless of the weather. This hands-on approach helps foster creativity and social skills, making Rutherford Street Kindergarten a valuable part of the Nelson community.