Media Release
23 April 2008

Bigger, brighter and better childcare centre reopens

Manukau Leisure Services’ opened its re-developed Kauri Kids childcare centre this week.

Operating from the Allan Brewster Recreation Centre in Papatoetoe, the centre capacity has been increased to 66 places to accommodate increased demand and the introduction of the 20 hours free policy.

Manukau Leisure’s chairman, Dr Stuart Middleton says that the childcare centre has been completely redesigned and refurbished.

“Kauri kids is all about the children, so every aspect is focused on providing a nurturing, stimulating and secure environment.

“This is another step in improving early childhood education opportunities in our city. It’s critically important that we do so. We have to ensure our children have strong foundations in their education – just as a Kauri tree has – so they can grow up well and stand tall in our community.”

Support given to children and their families in the early years is a significant predictor of educational success.

“But early childhood education is not just about making children smarter.
They make friends, learn to share, how to behave around others as well as learning about the world and how to be part of it,” says Dr Middleton.

Manukau Leisure Services is committed to upgrading and extending its network of childcare facilities throughout the city.

“Our intent is to roll out the Kauri Kids concept to our other centres. We aim to provide a quality, yet affordable childcare option for local families. And so we are happy to be part of the 20 free hours programme,” says Dr Middleton.

“Another goal is to build long-term relationships with families that will extend into out-of-school care, sports programmes, fitness centre use, participation in leisure and recreation programmes, and swimming.”

Kauri Kids currently has 10 spaces available for under twos. The Centre can be contacted on 2778805.

ENDS

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