Te Tupu o Te Tōrea Early Childhood Centre
A centre where tamariki learn, grow and connect with the land's rich history and future possibilities.
Te Tupu o te Tōrea is a carefuly redesigned early childhood centre reflecting a strong bicultural foundation to enhance the learning and growth of tamariki. This space ensures that the needs of tamariki, whānau and kaiako are met while honouring the cultural and environmental history of the land.
Designed in collaboration with Smith Architects and Michael Steedman from the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Māori, this centre features thoughtful design elements that connect it to the land on which it stands. The design elements will function to welcome tamariki and whānau throughout the day - with colours, materials, autistics and a layout which makes the centre a comforting learning space where everyone can feel at home.
Te Tupu o te Tōrea is separated into two learning spaces. Te Manuwa is the heart of the service and welcomes everyone in the morning and farewells them at the end of the day. The eldest 22 tamariki separate into Te Whanake learning space around 9am-3pm to engage in a program that caters to this older age group. The focused learning spaces with furniture, amenities, playgrounds, resourcing and routines are designed to connect with tamariki at their current development level and support and foster lifelong learning.
Licensed for 55 tamariki from birth - school | kura age.
For more information contact:
Te Tupu o Te Tōrea Early Childhood Centre
12-16 Nicholls Lane, Parnell
City Campus
Phone: +64 9 903 0459
Email: tetupu@auckland.ac.nz
Our gifted name
Te Tupu o Te Tōrea is a name gifted by Michael Steedman, Kaiarataki, during the development of the project. It was selected for many reasons, including its alignment with the Grafton service, Te Ako o Te Tui.
This centre is located near the original Tāmaki coastline where tōrea, oystercatchers would have been seen. These inquisitive birds probe their environment for food.
Like tōrea, children are encouraged to grow, or tupu. By being inquisitive they can explore their surrounding and build relationships, much like the oystercatch.
