Little Waves Early Learning Centre
Welcome to Little Waves Early Learning Centre. Kia Ora, Talofa, Hello, Bula, Mālō e lelei and a very warm welcome to Little Waves Early Learning Centre. At Little Waves, we are a small, family-orientated centre that provides a nurturing “home away from home” for tamariki aged 0–5 years. Our approach is guided by the values of Manaakitanga (hospitality and respect), Aroha (love), Atawhai (kindness), and Whanaungatanga (relationships and connection). These values shape the way we care for, teach, and support every tamaiti and their whānau. Our teaching team is made up of qualified and registered kaiako who work closely together, celebrating the unique strengths, cultures, and experiences each person brings. We are deeply passionate about our centre and our wonderful whānau, who together create the heart of our Little Waves community. We believe in working in true partnership with parents and whānau to provide high-quality care and education for all tamariki. In our quiet nursery, we cater for up to 10 under-twos. Our nursery kaiako provide a calm, safe environment where ngā pēpi can self-select resources, build trusting relationships, and take part in meaningful daily mahi thoughtfully prepared by kaiako. Our preschool space offers a wide variety of play and learning opportunities, both indoors and outdoors. We believe tamariki learn best through play, so much of our day is centred on tamaiti-led mahi. Tamariki are encouraged to set up their own activities, explore their interests, and take charge of their learning journeys. Kaiako observe and plan learning experiences aligned with the strands of Te Whāriki, carefully extending tamariki’s ideas, thinking, and skills. Throughout the day, kaiako prepare rich and engaging mahi time experiences that tamariki can freely choose to join. These experiences are designed to support a wide range of learning outcomes, honouring the uniqueness of each tamaiti while nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. At Little Waves, we are more than a centre—we are a community built on aroha, respect, and strong connections. Together, we celebrate the learning and growth of every tamaiti.
Our Philosophy and Kaupapa. At Little Waves, we celebrate tikanga Māori and weave it into our daily practice. Kaiako actively support and explore Te Reo Māori every day, which can also be seen in tamariki learning stories and within our centre environment through wall displays and shared mahi. Our centre philosophy is grounded in our Kaupapa, which guides our teaching practices and the way we support tamariki to develop strong social and emotional competencies. The values within our Kaupapa—Manaakitanga, Aroha, Atawhai, and Whanaungatanga—shape how we nurture, teach, and walk alongside tamariki in their learning journey. Through cultural experiences, we help tamariki to develop curiosity about the world around them and an understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique place within it. We value the contribution of our wider community, planning excursions that connect to our programme, and welcoming community members into the centre to share their knowledge, skills, and passions with our tamariki.
Little Farm Preschool and Nursery is located in a semi rural area of Paraparaumu and provides a nurturing and culturally diverse family-oriented environment.
As an owner-operated family business we have 11 childcare centres from Foxton to the Hutt Valley. Contact our friendly administration team on 04 299 6133 or email adminteam@aboutkids.co.nz to find out more.
06 364 6620
177 Mill Road, Otaki
04 299 6133
304 Kapiti Road, Paraparaumu Beach
Kia Ora Koutou, My name is Anika and I was born and raised on the Kāpiti Coast and love being part of this community. I have a real passion for working with children and helping them learn and grow. In my spare time, I enjoy walking my dog on the beach, spending time with friends, and playing netball. I also enjoy drag racing as a sport.
Kia Ora I'm Nalini, also known as Lini. As a dedicated teacher with 20 years of experience, I've worked with numerous early childhood settings in New Zealand. My background in education from the University of Auckland has equipped me to provide a nurturing environment for young learners. I have a huge passion for transition to school and I have gained a lot of experience on how I can support your child gain the fundamental skills for a smooth transition to school. I'm excited to connect with you and explore how I can support your child's educational journey.
Kia Ora,
My name is Georgina. I live in Raumati South with my partner and my puppy Bear and kitten Bambi. I’m originally from down South - Timaru and then Invercargill but moved up this way for some better weather and to be closer to a bigger city. I absolutely love the Kapiti Coast and all it has to offer. My favourite things to do are taking my puppy for a walk down the beach each night, spending time with family, going to concerts and travelling when I can afford it.
I have been teaching for 6 and a half years and believe in and support a calm environment for the under twos. I value respectful practices and empowering communication and fostering a sense of belonging for the tamariki and their Whānau. It is one of the best parts of the job when I see tamariki succeed at something they had doubted themselves with, and the immense pride they have when they master these skills.
I look forward to meeting you all!
Kia ora, my name is Eve and I’m a kaiako here at Little Waves. I bring a nurturing, patient, and resilient nature to my teaching practice, and I’m passionate about building strong, meaningful relationships with tamariki and their whānau. I believe that when children and families feel supported and valued, they thrive. One of my greatest joys is seeing the smiles on children’s faces as they grow in confidence and flourish in their learning environment.
My name is Iona and I have lived in Paraparaumu for 30 years, originally being a Southlander. I have been teaching in Early childhood for 14 years in infants and preschool. I have a wide range of training with being a NAMC certified 0-3 and 3-6 Montessori teacher, Reggio inspired experience, Open Wananga - He Papa Tikanga and the Open Polytech Certificate in Organic Primary production. When I'm not at work my interests are gardening, photography, crafting, being part of a faith community, running a crafting business.
In early childhood teaching my intention is to see each child develop to their full potential, to give everything a try and see how much they can do, see how far they can go. It's celebrating the increments in learning. I believe in being a supportive team member and working together for this end and definitely are a proponent of learning for life.
Kia ora! I’m Amanda, and I’m so excited to be part of Little Waves!
I love learning alongside tamariki—exploring, playing, and celebrating those “I did it!” moments. I believe children learn best when they feel safe, happy, and free to be themselves.
I really value the collaboration of kaiako, children, and whānau voices in each child’s learning journey.
You’ll often find me joining in play, getting creative, or heading outside for a little adventure. I’m really looking forward to getting to know you all!
Hello, my name is Kiriana. I am a proud mum of three wonderful tamariki and im currently studying Early Childhood Education with Te Rito Maioha . I am passionate about working with tamariki and enjoy supporting them as they learn, grow, and develop confidence in their abilities. Seeing tamariki reach new milestones and discover the world around them is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.
Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym, taking peaceful walks by the river, and reading. These hobbies help me stay active, relaxed, and inspired. I value creating positive relationships with tamariki and their families and strive to provide a caring, nurturing, and supportive environment where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
I’m Dejane, the Centre Manager for Little Waves and Little Farm. I have been part of the company for 11 years and absolutely love my role. I enjoy supporting and growing our kaiako, while also getting the opportunity to spend time working alongside tamariki on the floor.
I strongly believe in supporting tamariki to develop independence and confidence, while creating learning environments that encourage active exploration, curiosity and a love for learning.
Outside of mahi, I love spending time with my two children and husband, especially getting outdoors and enjoying new adventures together. I also enjoy cooking and baking and, of course, sharing what I make with my whānau!
