Playcentre began as a parent co-operative during the 1940's to support families and promote new developments in early childhood education. The original, innovative philosophy based on child initiated play and the importance of parents as educators of their own children is still paramount today.

The New Zealand Playcentre Federation formed as a national organisation in 1948 providing parent education, equipment and facilities necessary for quality early childhood education.

For 60 years this voluntary organisation has met the changing needs of families and their communities and today remains at the forefront of early childhood education.

Whanau Tupu Ngatahi : Families Growing Together

Playcentre believes that the whole family is important, and supports both children and adults.   Playcentre provides early childhood education for around 15,000 families and their children (around 20,000) between birth and school age.   Playcentres are unique within early childhood in that they are co-operatively run and supervised by parents.  Parents in turn are supported by experienced association and federation personnel.

Each Playcentre is affiliated to the New Zealand Playcentre Federation through one of its 33 regional associations. Each Playcentre abides by the constitution of its parent association and that of the New Zealand Playcentre Federation. Playcentres are bulk funded by the Ministry of Education.

At Playcentre adults can: be involved in their children's learning  take part in free parent education have confidence in themselves and their parenting develop friendships have time for themselves
	At Playcentre children: have many adults to support their play  learn through play enhance their self esteem learn life long skills make friends

So why choose Playcentre?

We believe that the whole whanau matters and support both children and adults by providing a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment.