Early Childhood Educator (Kaiako) – Kōhanga Reo

About the role

We are looking for a passionate and fluent Kaiako (Early Childhood Educator) to join Hineteiwaiwa Kōhanga Reo at the University of Auckland. The role involves delivering a kaupapa Māori curriculum, using te reo Māori as the primary language, and supporting children aged 7 months to 6 years in a mixed‑age, high‑ratio environment.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and implement daily learning experiences that reflect Māori values, tikanga and Te Whāriki.
• Build authentic relationships with tamariki, whānau and colleagues, fostering a sense of whanaungatanga.
• Maintain a safe, nurturing and inclusive classroom environment.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to continuously improve practice and professional growth.
• Ensure compliance with licensing requirements for a service of 25 children.

Required profile

• Fluent in te reo Māori and comfortable using it throughout the day.
• Strong understanding of tikanga Māori, mātauranga Māori and the Kōhanga Reo kaupapa.
• Recognised New Zealand early childhood (or primary) teaching qualification and current teacher registration.
• Proven experience as a qualified ECE kaiako, applying current ECE theory and Te Whāriki.
• Commitment to collaborative, kaupapa‑driven work environments.

Required skills

What we offer

• Remuneration above full pay parity.
• Five weeks of annual leave, including a Christmas closure.
• Supportive professional development and wellbeing initiatives.
• Opportunity to work in a unique university‑based Kōhanga Reo setting.