Nestlings Early Learning Centre
Where little wings take flight
Learning together in nature
Welcome to Nestlings Early Learning Centre
We are a small, unique nature based Early Childhood Education Center in Lake Hawea.
Nestlings is a small, unique nature based ECE centre offering a wholesome and sustainable approach to Early Childhood Education. With numbers limited to 35 children per day, focus is on quality of experience with nature and creativity at the core of what’s on offer.
“When life gives you rain, jump in muddy puddles!”
Getting our children into nature
At Nestlings nature is a part of us, we view ourselves as kaitiaki of our natural world. Our expansive garden offers tamariki opportunities to experience the beauty of nature through all of their senses.
From engaging in the rich colours and textures of our blossom trees and flowers; to climbing, digging and gross motor development with space for running, games, climbing, digging, and building.
From Garden to Table
Offering nurturing locally sourced and nutritious meals for our tamariki
At the heart of our centre is our kitchen. This reflects our passion for ensuring our tamariki enjoy simple, delicious kai using locally sourced ingredients where possible.
Our tamariki are involved in planting the seeds for our fruit and vegetables, with support they nurture the growth of the seedlings into strong, healthy plants, ready for kai time.
Nestlings Early Learning Centre caters for tamariki from the age of 6 months to school age.
Te Ruma Iti
Te Ruma Iti is a calm, nurturing, and loving environment for our youngest tamariki (6 months – 2 years old). We understand that the first two years of life are filled with rapid growth, discovery, and the development of secure relationships.
Te Ruma Nui
Te Ruma Nui is a vibrant and engaging learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and independence flourish. Designed for children aged 2 years- school age, this space encourages exploration through play-based learning, meaningful relationships, and hands-on experiences.