Centre Manager – Build a New ECE Hub in Wanaka

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 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.