Fees

At Manu Kindergarten we aim to keep our fee structure transparent and accessible, while continuing to provide a high-quality early childhood programme with a small group size in a well-resourced environment.

To support a sense of belonging and continuity, we ask that tamariki attend at least two days per week.

20 Hours ECE and optional charges

We offer the government-subsidised 20 Hours ECE for children aged 3–5 years. For families using this funding, we request an optional charge of $15 per day (i.e. $2.50 per hour).

Government funding covers only the minimum standard required for early childhood education. At Manu Kindergarten, we choose to offer a programme that goes far beyond this.

Your contribution directly supports:

  • A small group size (no more than 20 children)

  • Quality resources and consumables

  • Enriched learning experiences such as daily baking, woodwork, and more

  • Special excursions outside of kindergarten

  • Financial sustainability as a small, local, privately run kindergarten

These contributions make a significant difference to what we’re able to offer your child each day.

The optional charge is encouraged, but not compulsory. If paying it presents a genuine financial barrier, please talk with us.

Additional Hours

For any hours beyond the 20 ECE hours or for children not eligible for 20 hours ECE, the fee is $6.50 per hour.

Examples of how this applies:

  • If your child is attending Manu Kindergarten for more than 3 days per week

  • If your child is using up some of their 20 hours ECE at another provider such as daycare, home-based care, or Play Centre

Payment Options

Invoices are issued at the start of each school term (approximately quarterly). You’re welcome to pay the full term amount at once, or choose to pay in weekly or fortnightly instalments into our bank account. All payment details are included on each invoice.

FamilyBoost

Many households may be eligible for the government’s FamilyBoost payment. This provides a rebate of up to 40% of early childhood education costs for households earning under $57,286 per quarter (or about $229,000 per year).
You can find more information and check your eligibility on the IRD website.

WINZ subsidy

WINZ subsidies are available to those who qualify and entitlement is calculated on your annual income. You cannot claim both the 20 hours ECE subsidy and the Childcare Subsidy for the same hours of attendance but you can claim both for different hours of attendance.

For advice about entitlement go to https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/childcare-subsidy.html

you have any questions about fees, payment options, or available funding, please feel free to get in touch. We’re always happy to help.