At PlayPods Childcare, we believe that learning begins with connection — with people, with play, and with the world around us.
Formerly known as Waiuku Learning Space, our centres in Pukekohe and Waiuku are welcoming environments where children explore, experiment, and grow at their own pace. Through imaginative play, hands-on activities, and guided discovery, tamariki develop essential life skills — learning to think, express, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
At PlayPods Childcare, we foster the learning and development of our mokopuna through play-based learning. Here, children engage in exploration, experimentation, discovery, and problem-solving through imaginative and playful activities.
We place a huge emphasis on supporting our mokopuna to transition to kura. Our creative Kaiako carefully plan programmes that fulfil the early childhood curriculum.
Your child's safety and well-being are our top priorities. We maintain a secure and welcoming space where every child feels valued, respected, and cared for.
We value open and transparent communication with our families. Your involvement is crucial to your child's success, and we welcome your feedback, questions, and active participation in our learning community.
Our Philosophy.
“He Tangata, He Tangata, He Tangata”.
“It’s about the people, people, people”.
A: 82 Kitchener Road, Waiuku 2123
P : 09 235 0904
E: hello@playpodschildcare.co.nz
A: 103 Queen Street, Pukekohe East 2120
P : 09 235 0904
E: hello@playpodschildcare.co.nz
Our learning environments are designed to feel like a second home — safe, inspiring, and filled with opportunities to explore, play, and grow every day.
Each of our rooms is purposefully created to meet the developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. From calm reading corners to creative art spaces and large outdoor play areas, every part of our environment encourages curiosity, independence, and imagination.
Our kaiako create warm, inclusive spaces where children feel safe, valued, and respected. Strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do — helping tamariki build confidence and a deep sense of belonging within our PlayPods community.
We believe children learn best through meaningful play and hands-on experiences. Our holistic approach combines early education with emotional and social development, ensuring every child grows into a capable, confident, and compassionate learner.
To develop agency in our mokopuna by providing them with the opportunity to develop holistically (kotahitanga) within our learning environment.
Creating a safe and nurturing space for growth and development of mokopuna – physically, intellectually and spiritually (hauora).
Cultivating in them the values fo whanauwhanauntanga, (others) maanakitanga (altruism) and Rangatiratanga (leadership) through the development of meaningful connections with others (nga hononga).
Our little guy loves going to ‘kindy’, which he goes to 2 days a week. I love the family feeling that the centre has. They made the transition process so easy when starting him there and then also moving to different a room when he turned a bit older. The teachers and owners are very easy to communicate with. Thanks for taking care of our little guy 💕
Waiuku Learning Space has been such a wonderful place for my daughter. The teachers are caring, supportive, and genuinely invested in the children’s learning and wellbeing. I really appreciate the fun and creative activities they do every day, and how they encourage curiosity, confidence, and kindness. Highly recommend this centre to any parent looking for a quality, caring daycare.
Couldn’t have found a better centre for my daughter. Such a warm, welcoming atmosphere and easy going place. Big outdoor area with lots to do. The teachers are amazing and so loving they treat all the children like family. Always fun activities, games, excitement every day. Our kids are so spoilt by PlayPods Childcare and I appreciate them for all they do. Highly recommend for all children from babies to preschool.
So glad we chose Waiuku learning space for our baby to go to. From his first day at 10 months old he loved it. The teachers are all so awesome. We get daily updates (bottles, nap times, nappy changes) and photos every day of what they got up to. Their hours are so good considering we are full time working parents, and pricing is affordable too. I highly recommend Waiuku learning space for anyone looking for a daycare.
Tania is a true asset to PlayPods Childcare. She has been the most amazing support to our son starting his early education when I returned to work. The owners have been incredibly accommodating to son’s needs.
PlayPods Childcare aims to foster a nurturing village-like environment, placing the child at the heart of our community hub to ensure holistic and positive development.
Kia Ora Koutou Katoa. Ko Rukshat Singh tōku ingoa. I’m Rukshat Singh, guiding the PlayPods Childcare community. Beyond being a mother of two, education is my heartfelt passion. I’m also thrilled to embrace my Pacific Islander roots, bringing a touch of my cultural pride to our wonderful community. With a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years in the field of teaching, including more than 15 years in Early Childhood Education (ECE) management roles, I bring a deep understanding and passion for the care and education of our young learners.
He taonga te mokopuna, kia whāngaia, kia tipu, kia rea.
A child is a treasure, to be nurtured, to grow, to flourish.
Kia Ora, I’m Sanam, a kaiako at PlayPods Childcare. With a blend of Fijian-Indian heritage and Kiwi upbringing, my cultural richness, compassion, and a love for learning. At home, alongside my husband and Frankie, my cherished cat, family is a priority. I find joy in socialising and downtime involves my love for reading, shaping both my personal life and teaching philosophy. Committed to creating a nurturing environment, my goal at Waiuku Learning Space is to foster the flourishing of young minds.
Bringing more than 2 years of enriching experience to PlayPods Childcare, I am deeply passionate about nurturing young minds. My approach blends caring guidance with innovative teaching methods, fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and comprehensive growth. I believe in forging strong connections not just with the children, but with their families too, creating a supportive and collaborative learning community. Committed to continual learning and dedicated to each child’s development, I strive to be an invaluable asset to our team, aiming to make a meaningful impact in every child’s educational journey.
With a rewarding journey spanning over 13 years in early childhood education, I, Hagashini Francis, lovingly known as Telisha, bring a wealth of experience and boundless passion to PlayPods Childcare. My extensive tenure in nurturing young minds reflects my steadfast commitment to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment. I believe in instilling a love for learning while laying a strong foundation for each child’s comprehensive growth. Building meaningful connections with both children and their families is at the core of my approach, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning community.
Your Child’s Journey Begins Here: Discover Our Enrolment Process and Secure their Educational Adventure
This visit offers you an opportunity to explore our vibrant learning environments, meet our dedicated educators, and experience the nurturing atmosphere we provide for your child’s growth and development.
Following the Meet and Greet, submit your application to express your interest in enrolling your child at PlayPods Childcare. Our team will review your application promptly and guide you through the next steps.
Upon acceptance, we’ll assist you in finalising the enrolment process and securing your child’s spot in our enriching programs. Complete paperwork and support to ensure a seamless journey with us.
The magic of childhood shines brightest when children feel free to explore, play, and create. Take a look inside our centres to see the joy, imagination, and connections that make PlayPods Childcare a second home for so many families.
