Centre Manager (BestStart Three Parks)

BestStart Education; Wānaka; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

FULL Pay Parity

Leadership development and mentoring

Learning through Whare Ako, our online

Career progression opportunities

Discounted childcare

Independent Centre Manager Programme

Subsidised health insurance

Free annual flu vaccinations

Confidential EAP support

Sick leave from your first day

Long-service leave

Job summary

BestStart Education in Wanaka invites a Centre Manager to lead a brand-new early learning centre from day one, guiding operations and staff development.

You'll recruit and coach your team, build strong relationships with children and whānau, and shape a positive, high-quality learning environment that supports tamariki growth.

This permanent, full-time role offers a pathway into BestStart's Independent Centre Manager Programme and opportunities to influence the local ECE community.

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 and drive exceptional learning outcomes for children.
• Inspire and coach the centre team and build community connections.
• Ensure a high-quality learning environment where tamariki can thrive.
• Support ongoing improvement and align practices with BestStart standards.

Skills

People leadership

Coaching

Relationship-building

Te Whāriki knowledge

ECE regulations knowledge

Education

B.Ed/Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary)

Teacher Certification

Job description

BestStart Education – Wanaka, South Island

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