Early Childhood Educator (Kaiako) – Kōhanga Reo (Full‑time)

About the role

We are looking for a passionate and fluent Kaiako to join Hineteiwaiwa Kōhanga Reo at the University of Auckland. The role involves delivering early childhood education in a fully immersed kaupapa Māori environment, using te reo Māori as the primary language of practice.

Key responsibilities

• Provide high‑quality, age‑appropriate learning experiences for 25 tamariki aged 7 months to 6 years.
• Plan and implement curriculum aligned with Te Whāriki and Māori cultural values.
• Maintain exceptional teacher‑to‑child ratios and ensure a safe, nurturing environment.
• Build authentic, respectful relationships with tamariki, whānau and colleagues.
• Collaborate with the team to continuously improve practice and support professional growth.

Required profile

• Genuine passion for te reo Māori, tikanga Māori and kaupapa Māori education.
• Recognised New Zealand ECE (or primary) teaching qualification and current teacher registration.
• Proven experience as a qualified ECE kaiako, confident applying current ECE theory.
• Ability to work confidently in a fully immersed Māori language environment.
• Commitment to collaborative, kaupapa‑driven teamwork.

Required skills

• Fluent use of te reo Māori in daily practice.
• Strong understanding of tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori.
• Application of the Te Whāriki framework.
• Relationship‑building with children, families and staff.

What we offer

• Remuneration above full pay parity.
• Five weeks of annual leave, including a Christmas closure.
• Supportive professional development and a stable, collaborative team.
• On‑site work at the University of Auckland campus.