Centre Manager (BestStart Three Parks)

Best Start; Wānaka; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

FULL Pay Parity

Leadership development and mentoring

Learning through Te Whare Ako online平台

Career progression opportunities

Discounted childcare

Independent Centre Manager Programme

Subsidised health insurance

Free annual flu vaccinations

Confidential EAP support

Sick leave from first day

Long-service leave

Job summary

BestStart Three Parks in Wanaka is seeking a Centre Manager to lead our brand-new early learning centre from day one, building a strong team and a thriving community. You will be responsible for establishing relationships with children and whānau while setting a positive culture.

Reporting to an Area Manager, you will lead day-to-day operations, drive learning outcomes, and ensure a high-quality environment where staff can thrive. This permanent, full-time role offers growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• B.Ed./Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary) and current Teacher Certification.
• Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, child-led learning, and current ECE regulations.
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice.
• Proven leadership and coaching capability.
• Excellent relationship-building skills.
• A passion for innovation and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the centre.
• Inspire and develop the centre team to deliver high-quality learning.
• Build strong connections with whānau and the local community.
• Create a positive culture that supports children's learning and wellbeing.
• Manage centre performance and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Relationship-building

Innovation mindset

Communication skills

Education

B.Ed./Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary) and current Teacher Certification

Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, child-led learning, and current ECE regulations

A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Lead a brand-new centre. Build a team. Create a thriving community.

BestStart Three Parks is seeking a passionate and dedicated Centre Manager to lead our brand-new early learning centre in beautiful Wānaka.

This is a unique opportunity to put your stamp on a centre from day one. You'll build and develop your team, establish meaningful relationships with children and whānau, and create a positive culture that sets the foundation for future success.

Why BestStart Three Parks?

Currently under construction, BestStart Three Parks has been purpose-built to provide exceptional education and care for children aged 3 months to 5 years. With inspiring learning environments, spacious outdoor play areas, and nutritious meals provided daily, it's an exciting opportunity to be part of something special from the very beginning.

Why Choose BestStart?

At BestStart, we're proud to be a progressive leader in the ECE sector, committed to supporting our people to thrive. We offer:

• FULL Pay Parity
• Leadership development and mentoring
• Learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform
• Career progression opportunities
• Discounted childcare
• Opportunity to progress into our Independent Centre Manager Programme

We also prioritise your wellbeing with:

• Subsidised health insurance (eligibility criteria apply)
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Confidential EAP support
• Sick leave from your first day
• Additional long-service leave

About the Role

Reporting to an Area Manager, you'll lead the day-to-day operations of the centre while driving exceptional learning outcomes for children. As a strong people leader, you'll inspire your team, build community connections, and ensure a high-quality learning environment where everyone can thrive.

This is a permanent, full-time position (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday).

About You

You'll bring:

• B.Ed/Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary) and current Teacher Certification
• Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, child-led learning, and current ECE regulations
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice
• Proven leadership and coaching capability
• Excellent relationship-building skills
• A passion for innovation and continuous improvement