Affordability

Kindergarten

Kindergartens remain popular because of their relatively low cost and their high quality education.

The Ministry of Education provides 20 free hours of early childhood education a week for children over 3 years of age.  Inspired Kindergartens have extended this to 30 free hours a week for children from 2 years of age.

However, the Ministry of Education funding does not cover all kindergarten costs. To assist with expenses that will enhance your child’s kindergarten experience, we ask families to make regular donations.

Donations are based on the following scale:
Part day session (up to 4.25 hours) $4 per child
All day session (over 4.25 hours) - $6 per child

Donations ensure kindergartens can maintain a high standard of education, including employing only trained and registered early childhood teachers.  All donations received from families are retained by each kindergarten and channelled back into children’s learning.  These donations assist with meeting the daily running costs of each kindergarten.

All donations paid to the kindergarten can be claimed on an annual basis to receive a 33% tax credit refund from IRD.

Please note: Some kindergartens operate extended sessions and holiday programmes a separate fee is charged for these types of sessions.

Families/whānau must attest their full 20 hours ECE to the kindergarten. 

For more information:

Please speak to your kindergarten team click here

Home Based Education

Home based education is a popular service because of their affordable rates and flexible hours.

The Ministry of Education provides 20 free hours of early childhood education a week for children over 3 years of age.

The home based rate is $5.60 per hour per child.  Casual or occasional care rates are available on request. 

Transport rate is $0.62 per km.  Please note this fee applies to all families/whānau requiring transport to and from the educator’s home.

WINZ subsidies are available.  Whānau care rates (a child in the care of an extended family member) are available (conditions apply).

For more information:

Please speak to your home based team click here