Our Strategic Plan
Our Purpose
New Zealand Kindergartens supports for-purpose trailblazers to thrive in the provision of fit-for-purpose, teacher-led, quality education that enhances social, emotional, economic, and environmental impact.
Our Strategic Priorities
Our efforts and resources are focused on people, partnerships, and the planet. Our work evolves through a deliberate focus and practice that gives effect to the Articles of Te Tiriti O Waitangi.
Our Value Proposition
Through advocacy and influence, NZK works to drive systemic change that enables for-purpose trailblazers to provide teacher-led, impactful early childhood education for generations to come.

People
Are at the heart of all we do.
We focus on:
- Barrier-free access
- Quality teaching and learning
- Growth and development
- Quality leadership and governance
- Approaches that build “Best People”
Partnerships
Help us to deliver impact.
We focus on:
- Hub and spoke approaches to enhance the lives of those within our community
- Approaches that are inclusive and deliver for a diversity of aspiration and need
- Leveraging the expertise of others and playing to our strengths
- Advocating for accelerated change
Planet
Sustains us for generations to come.
We focus on:
- Education that grows awareness and changes habits
- Business practice that minimises harm and enables a sustained future
- Investment that supports adaptability, resilience, and change
- Continuous improvement that moves us forward
Our Ways of Working
Our work is underpinned by six core principles inspired by the Good Governance Code - Waehere Whakahaere Tika
Principle One
Rangatiratanga and Impactful, Purposeful Leadership
Effective leaders and governors are clear about the purpose of their organisation, and their leadership is focused on ensuring the organisation delivers maximium impact. They provide strong foundations for their organisation and the communites it serves.Principle Two
Whanaungatanga/Whakawhanaungatanga and Connected Leadership
Effective leaders and governors understand the importance of relationships and connections. They unite to fulfil the purpose of their organisation, building strong relationships with each other and those they serve.Principle Three
Tuakititanga and Diverse and Inclusive Leadership
Effective leadership teams and governing boards are as diverse as the communities they serve. They draw on the experiences of all team members and seek to enhance the integrity and leadership of all individuals. They understand the importance of people and identity.Principle Four
Manaakitanga and Integrity and Accountability>
Effective leaders and governors understand their accountability to each other and their accountability to those who support and fund their kaupapa and those they serve. They seek and gain trust by always working with care, integrity, reciprocity, and respect.Principle Five
Kaitiakitanga and Transparent and Open Leadership
Effective leaders and governors are trusted by the communities they serve, their staff and volunteers, and their funders. They seek to ensure their kaupapa is sustainable over time. They seek genuine feedback and are willing to adapt and learn to best serve their communities.Principle Six
Pono and Effective Governance and Leadership Processes
Effective leaders and governors do things right. They have good internal processes and policies in place so that they operate legally, ethically, and effectively. Having streamlined processes means leaders and governors can focus on operations, strategy, and impact.