BestStart Educare
Centre-based chain
NZ's largest centre-based ECE chain
BestStart Educare runs 261 centres across NZ — the largest centre-based early childhood network in the country. Owned by BestStart Educare Limited (NZBN Companies Office filing). Most BestStart centres participate in 20 Hours ECE for 3-5 year olds.
Coverage
BestStart has centres in every major NZ city and most regions. Education-and-care service type (full-day). Mixed-age groupings, with separate spaces for under-2s and 2-5 year olds at most locations.
Funding
All BestStart centres participate in 20 Hours ECE for 3-5 year olds. Eligible for the Childcare Subsidy (MSD, means-tested) and FamilyBoost rebate (IRD, 25% of weekly fees capped at $75/week, phased out from $140k-$180k household income).
Companies Office record
RegisteredBESTSTART EDUCARE SERVICES LIMITED · NZ Limited Company · NZBN 9429048563697 · incorporated 2020-08-24
- · Anthony Boyd Williams RYALL
- · Yan LONG
- · Jill Sylvia BARNARD
Source: Companies Office / NZBN register · refreshed 2026-05-27 · CC-BY 4.0 (NZGOAL).
BestStart Educare by city
Branded city pages — each lists BestStart Educare's centres plus alternative operators in that city.
BestStart Educare by suburb
Top 24 suburbs by centre count. Each links to a BestStart Educare × suburb page with alternative operators alongside.
Centres by region
All centres
BestStart Botany Road
ERO assessed BestStart Botany Road as Not well placed in their 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found Whānau partnership and Health & safety both graded B, with strengths in inclusive relationships, parent communication through portfolios, and staffing ratios exceeding minimum requirements.
BestStart Marne Road Kindy
ERO assessed BestStart Marne Road Kindy as Not well placed in their 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership (all graded B), with bicultural practice graded C as an area for continued development.
BestStart Manuroa Road 1
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found sound performance across most dimensions (all graded B), including curriculum planning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership. The service had areas requiring development, particularly consistency across its buildings.
BestStart Papatoetoe
ERO assessed BestStart Papatoetoe as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report found curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, and health and safety all graded B, with responsive curriculum implementation and positive communication evident, though areas for deeper curriculum complexity were identified.
BestStart Te Atatu Peninsula
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in June 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, and bicultural practice as areas needing strengthening, while children's wellbeing, health and safety systems, and leadership were operating at satisfactory levels.
BestStart Puni Road
ERO assessed BestStart Puni Road as Not well placed in their 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and health and safety (all B grades), while curriculum and learning, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance were assessed as C grades, indicating areas for development in te reo integration, cultural understanding, and evaluation practices.
BestStart Tironui Road
ERO assessed BestStart Tironui Road as Not well placed in September 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all five dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance.
BestStart Albany 1
ERO assessed BestStart Albany 1 as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service demonstrated deliberate, interest-responsive curriculum approaches with good progress tracking (B grade), but bicultural practice was still developing with emerging practices (C grade). Leadership was collaborative with a developing professional learning culture (B grade).
BestStart Lambie Drive 1
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in September 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found the centre graded B across all dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance. The report noted opportunities to strengthen assessment and planning practices.
BestStart Dilworth Avenue
ERO assessed BestStart Dilworth Avenue as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across all five dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance. The service had effective planning and positive relationships, though some areas were identified for strengthening.
BestStart Pipiwai Kindy
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in June 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found sound curriculum planning and strong whānau engagement (grade B), alongside good te reo and tikanga practice (grade B), though development was identified in assessment systems, family assessment contributions, and Te Tiriti commitment.
BestStart Epsom
ERO assessed BestStart Epsom as Not well placed in April 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found sound curriculum planning and strong children's wellbeing practices (grade B), but identified limited te reo Māori and tikanga use requiring review from a bicultural perspective (grade C).
BestStart Grey Lynn
ERO assessed BestStart Grey Lynn as Not well placed in April 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum alignment, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership (all grade B), with bicultural practice identified as a developing area (grade C).
BestStart Lambie Drive
ERO assessed BestStart Lambie Drive as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership and governance, all graded B. The service operated a Te Whāriki-based programme with play-based learning, though assessment practices needed development at that time.
BestStart Newton
ERO assessed BestStart Newton as Not well placed in May 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance (all grade A), while curriculum and learning was graded B, with assessment and planning noted as developing.
BestStart Albany 2
ERO assessed BestStart Albany 2 as Not well placed in November 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service effective in curriculum and learning, and in supporting children's wellbeing, but identified bicultural practice as an area for development.
BestStart Remuera Road
ERO assessed BestStart Remuera Road as Not well placed in their 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B in children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, and health and safety, with strengths in belonging and peer relationships, though opportunities to deepen bicultural embedding were identified.
BestStart Kamo Central
ERO assessed BestStart Kamo Central as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and bicultural practice (all graded A), with health and safety meeting legal requirements (graded B).
BestStart Kaikohe
ERO assessed BestStart Kaikohe as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all five dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and health and safety. The service demonstrated strong Te Whāriki alignment, secure relationships with children, established family partnerships, visible te ao Māori presence, and legal compliance in health and safety.
BestStart Pipiwai Road
ERO assessed BestStart Pipiwai Road as not well placed in June 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and health and safety, though the ERO review noted that documented curriculum planning needed strengthening despite child-led learning approaches being evident.
BestStart Montessori The Children's House
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in their 2020 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found sound alignment between the Montessori approach and Te Whāriki in curriculum and learning, with effective assessment and co-construction. Children demonstrated settledness, confidence, and positive relationships with a strong sense of belonging.
BestStart Ponsonby
ERO assessed BestStart Ponsonby as Not well placed in May 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, with effective teaching in curriculum and learning. Bicultural practice was identified as an area requiring further development, with te reo and tikanga use noted as inconsistent.
BestStart Mount Eden
ERO assessed BestStart Mount Eden as Not well placed in their 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing and whānau partnership, with good bicultural practice and health and safety management, though some areas require development.
BestStart Ascot Avenue
ERO assessed BestStart Ascot Avenue as Not well placed in their 2016 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, and whānau partnership, with strengths in positive routines and family communication alongside scope for deepening curriculum implementation.
BestStart North Harbour
ERO assessed BestStart North Harbour as Not well placed in its 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance across the centre's operations.
BestStart Glenfield
ERO assessed BestStart Glenfield as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong performance across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance, with all dimensions graded B.
BestStart Gillies Avenue
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found sound curriculum implementation and positive children's wellbeing (both graded B), with established whānau partnerships also graded B. Planning, assessment, and overall service effectiveness were identified as areas requiring development.
BestStart Avondale
ERO assessed BestStart Avondale as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, and health and safety, with several areas identified for further development.
BestStart Seymour Road Kindy
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in their June 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report indicated that bicultural practice was graded B, with te reo and tikanga Māori becoming integral to the service and skilled teachers leading development in this area.
BestStart Meadowbank
ERO assessed BestStart Meadowbank as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership and health and safety, but notes that curriculum and learning assessment processes and bicultural practice require development.
BestStart Onehunga
ERO assessed BestStart Onehunga as Not well placed in their 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found strong performance in children's wellbeing (grade A), with sound practice in curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, and bicultural practice (all grade B), though opportunities were identified to strengthen learning dispositions and ongoing development in te reo and tikanga.
BestStart Maich Road
ERO assessed BestStart Maich Road as Not well placed in October 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all dimensions: Curriculum & learning, Children's wellbeing, Whānau partnership, Bicultural practice, and Leadership & governance, with strengths in belonging and parent engagement alongside areas for continued development.
BestStart Dublin Street
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in its 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in leadership and governance, but noted that bicultural practice requires development, with teachers building understanding of te reo and tikanga and an identified need to increase te reo use in the programme.
BestStart Coronation Road
ERO assessed BestStart Coronation Road as Not well placed in May 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in children's wellbeing, curriculum delivery, and whānau partnership (all grade B), with health and safety meeting legal requirements. Bicultural practice was identified as an area needing development, particularly strengthening te reo Māori usage.
BestStart Papakura East Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in their October 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance, indicating solid performance in these areas despite the overall placement.
BestStart Onslow Road
ERO assessed BestStart Onslow Road as Not well placed in October 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified areas requiring improvement: curriculum planning and Te Whāriki implementation were inconsistent, emotional security and teacher responsiveness in the Big Tots group needed strengthening, and bicultural practices required further development. Whānau partnership was a relative strength, with effective communication and digital engagement.
BestStart Everglade Babies
ERO assessed BestStart Everglade Babies as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in children's wellbeing (A grade) and curriculum implementation (B grade), with whānau partnership and health & safety also meeting expectations (B grades). Bicultural practice was identified as an area requiring development (C grade), particularly in consistency of te reo Māori use and deepening Te Ao Māori integration.
BestStart Kenderdine Road
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in December 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and health and safety, but noted that bicultural practice and te reo Māori knowledge development required further building.
BestStart Howick
ERO assessed BestStart Howick as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance, with observations noting sound practices in place alongside areas for development including strengthened assessment and enhanced infant provision responsiveness.
BestStart Everglade Preschool
ERO assessed BestStart Everglade Preschool as Not well placed in their 2019 review. No dimension grades were available in the ERO report analysis.
BestStart Wattle Downs
ERO assessed BestStart Wattle Downs as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership (all grade A), with curriculum and learning graded B. The service cares for 70 children.
BestStart Manurewa Central
ERO assessed BestStart Manurewa Central as Not well placed in its 2020 Education Review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance, with ERO noting opportunities to strengthen internal evaluation and bicultural community connections.
BestStart Manukau 1
ERO assessed BestStart Manukau 1 as Not well placed in May 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service achieved B grades across all five dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance.
BestStart St Lukes
ERO assessed BestStart St Lukes as Not well placed in March 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership, but found bicultural practice required improvement and professional support.
BestStart Waiuku
ERO assessed BestStart Waiuku as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and health and safety compliance (all grade B), but noted bicultural practice as an area requiring strengthening (grade C).
BestStart Dannemora
ERO assessed BestStart Dannemora as Not well placed in April 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance, with health and safety systems meeting legal requirements.
BestStart Apirana Avenue
ERO assessed BestStart Apirana Avenue as Not well placed in 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum planning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and health and safety (all grade B), but identified bicultural practice as an area requiring strengthening (grade C).
BestStart Wolverton Street
ERO assessed BestStart Wolverton Street as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report identified sound Te Whāriki implementation with responsive teaching in curriculum and learning, and ratios exceeding minimums with confirmed compliance systems in health and safety.
BestStart MacDonald Street
ERO assessed this 52-child service as Not well placed in their 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, but identified bicultural practice as requiring continued development.
BestStart Doncaster Drive
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in June 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong performance across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and bicultural practice, all graded A.
BestStart Morrinsville
ERO assessed BestStart Morrinsville as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in children's wellbeing and bicultural practice (both A grades), with sound curriculum design and health and safety compliance (B grades).
BestStart Kawaha Point
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths across curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance, all graded A.
BestStart St Andrews
ERO assessed BestStart St Andrews as Not well placed in October 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance (all graded A). Health and safety met legal requirements (B), while bicultural practice was identified as an area to deepen further (B).
BestStart Claudelands
ERO assessed BestStart Claudelands as Not well placed in its 2020 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found leadership and governance to be a strength, with highly effective leadership, cohesive culture, and strong mentoring and coaching systems.
BestStart Hillcrest
ERO assessed BestStart Hillcrest as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership, but noted that bicultural practice required further development to deepen culturally responsive understanding.
BestStart Greerton
ERO assessed BestStart Greerton as Not well placed in October 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum, children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership, but found whānau partnership and bicultural practice required development. The service had sound active learning and strong staff relationships, though assessment systems and te reo Māori use needed embedding.
BestStart Clarence Street
ERO assessed BestStart Clarence Street as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report identified curriculum planning as a strength, but noted assessment documentation needs development. Health and safety systems meet requirements, though hazard checking compliance requires strengthening.
BestStart Montessori Flagstaff
ERO assessed BestStart Montessori Flagstaff as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong curriculum and learning outcomes aligned to Montessori principles, but bicultural practice as an area for further development, particularly in language and tikanga. Health and safety compliance met legal requirements and minimum ratios.
BestStart Rototuna
ERO assessed BestStart Rototuna as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found strong bicultural practice with confident te reo Māori use among children, effective whānau partnership through portfolios and regular meetings, and health and safety practices meeting minimum legal requirements.
BestStart Somerset Street
ERO assessed BestStart Somerset Street as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found Leadership & governance was graded A, indicating collaborative culture and embedded professional learning, though overall the service faced challenges across other areas of operation.
BestStart Girven Road
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, and leadership and governance. However, the overall placement indicates areas requiring significant development across the service.
BestStart Waihi East
ERO assessed BestStart Waihi East as Not well placed in 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report identified B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance, with curriculum informed by Te Whāriki and strong parent engagement noted.
BestStart Jones Crescent Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong children's wellbeing (A grade) alongside B grades for curriculum and learning, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance. The review noted effective teaching interactions and positive relationships, with opportunities to extend outdoor learning and local iwi engagement.
BestStart Peachgrove Road
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in their 2018 review. The centre operates as an education and care service in Claudelands, Hamilton, with a roll of 36 children.
BestStart Dinsdale
ERO assessed BestStart Dinsdale as Not well placed in their 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found Leadership & governance was graded B, indicating effective strategic direction with aligned goals and internal evaluation practices.
BestStart Greenmeadows
ERO assessed BestStart Greenmeadows as Not well placed in August 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, with all these dimensions graded B. Bicultural practice was graded C, with te reo Māori use and cultural identity in documentation identified as areas needing development.
BestStart Puketaha Road
ERO assessed BestStart Puketaha Road as Not well placed in its 2020 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, with B grades across these areas. Areas for development include bicultural practice (C grade) and curriculum consistency.
BestStart Dey Street
BestStart Dey Street is an education and care service in Hamilton East with a current roll of 70 children. In its 2017 ERO review, the service was assessed as Not well placed.
BestStart Maui Street
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report indicates the curriculum and learning dimension was graded B, with Te Whāriki implementation noted as strong and integrated learning evident, though literacy resources were identified as needing review.
BestStart Te Awamutu
BestStart Te Awamutu is an education and care service for 84 children in Te Awamutu Central. Our analysis of the ERO report from December 2020 found the service graded B across whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance. The service respects whānau aspirations, acknowledges Māori as tangata whenua in the curriculum, meets health and safety standards, and has implemented self-review processes.
BestStart Whangamata
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in October 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, with responsive care and strong relationships, and in leadership with effective mentoring. Areas for development included embedding and refining the assessment system within the broad, project-based curriculum.
BestStart Primrose Street
ERO assessed BestStart Primrose Street as Not well placed in October 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths across all four dimensions: Curriculum & learning (A), Children's wellbeing (A), Whānau partnership (A), and Bicultural practice (A).
BestStart Te Aroha
BestStart Te Aroha received an Akanuku review in March 2021. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies B grades across all dimensions: children's wellbeing is supported through positive adult-child interactions; bicultural practice reflects Māori as tangata whenua; health and safety systems meet regulatory standards; and leadership and governance processes are effective.
BestStart Montessori Otumoetai
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in its 2020 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning through its integrated Montessori and Te Whāriki approach, and generally positive whānau partnerships, though opportunities to increase participation were noted.
BestStart Katikati
ERO assessed BestStart Katikati as Not well placed in June 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance, with strengths in Te Whāriki assessment, family collaboration, and strategic alignment.
BestStart Lynmore
ERO assessed BestStart Lynmore as Not well placed in its 2019 review. The service operates as an education and care centre with a roll of 42 children.
BestStart Herewini Street
ERO assessed BestStart Herewini Street as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received B grades across curriculum and learning, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance.
BestStart Vivian Street
ERO assessed BestStart Vivian Street as Not well placed in February 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received B grades across all dimensions: Curriculum & learning, Children's wellbeing, Bicultural practice, Health & safety, and Leadership & governance. Despite receiving B grades, the overall ERO placement was Not well placed.
BestStart Hokowhitu
ERO assessed BestStart Hokowhitu as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found emerging bicultural practice, with te ao Māori resources and culturally responsive partnerships still in development.
BestStart Palmerston North 2
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in June 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum links to Te Whāriki, whānau partnerships, and leadership practices, but noted that bicultural practice had limited visibility in planning. The service had 59 children on roll at the time of review.
BestStart Parton Road
Our analysis of the ERO report (2022) identified strengths in children's wellbeing and health & safety. Leadership & governance was graded lower, with professional learning on Te Whāriki curriculum identified as needing to be more targeted and deepened.
BestStart Totara Street
ERO assessed BestStart Totara Street as Not well placed in their 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received high grades (A) across all five dimensions: Curriculum & learning, Children's wellbeing, Whānau partnership, Bicultural practice, and Leadership & governance.
BestStart Fairy Springs
ERO assessed BestStart Fairy Springs as Not well placed in their October 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service achieved a B grade in Health & safety, with compliance with legal requirements and ratios exceeding minimum standards.
BestStart Palm Springs
ERO assessed BestStart Palm Springs as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the centre offered sound curriculum implementation with rich experiences, though Te Whāriki implementation needed further development. Whānau partnership was graded as well-established, with effective parent collaboration in planning and communication through portfolios and online systems.
BestStart Pukuatua
BestStart Pukuatua is an education and care service in Rotorua with a current roll of 112 children. Our analysis of the 2022 ERO report found the service achieved grade B for children's wellbeing, with children developing social competencies through supportive learning opportunities, and grade B for whānau partnership, with established systems for parent involvement in decision-making and aspiration gathering.
BestStart Sunset
ERO assessed BestStart Sunset as Not well placed in January 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report indicated strength in curriculum and learning with intentional focus on interests and diversity, and consistent bicultural practice with te reo and tikanga integration.
BestStart Abacus
BestStart Abacus is an education and care service in Taupō Central East with a roll of 37 children. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies positive steps in whānau partnership and demonstrates that regulatory health and safety standards are met.
BestStart Ngatai Road
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in its 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies strengths in curriculum and learning, and children's wellbeing (both graded A), alongside areas for development in bicultural practice and health and safety (both graded B).
BestStart Tauranga Central
ERO assessed BestStart Tauranga Central as Not well placed in their 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received a grade C for bicultural practice, with emerging iwi partnerships and inconsistent te reo Māori implementation identified as needing strengthening.
BestStart Welcome Bay
ERO assessed BestStart Welcome Bay as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found the centre demonstrated sound curriculum and learning practices with play-based approaches and strengthening assessment, and clear leadership with evidence-based decision-making. The service was operating an education and care programme for 50 children.
BestStart Halswell Road
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in their July 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and bicultural practice, with all dimensions graded B. The service had a roll of 75 children at the time of review.
BestStart Te Atatu Road
ERO assessed BestStart Te Atatu Road as Not well placed in April 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found B grades across all dimensions: play-based learning with responsive support, strong child wellbeing and whānau partnerships, growing bicultural practice, and active leadership focus on improvement.
BestStart Buchanans Road
BestStart Buchanans Road is an education and care service in Broomfield, Christchurch, with a roll of around 100 children. In its 2018 ERO review, the service was assessed as Not well placed.
BestStart Redwood
ERO assessed BestStart Redwood as Not well placed in their 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service achieved B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance, indicating sound practice in these areas.
BestStart Petone
ERO assessed BestStart Petone as Not well placed in its 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified whānau partnership as a strength, with valued relationships and effective communication systems. Bicultural practice was graded as developing, with opportunities to expand te reo Māori use and cultural learning.
BestStart Motutaiko Street
ERO assessed BestStart Motutaiko Street as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership and governance (all grade A), with bicultural practice graded B.
BestStart Glasgow Street
BestStart Glasgow Street is an education and care service in College Estate, Whanganui District, with a roll of 110 children. Our analysis of the 2020 ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership and governance (all grade B), though bicultural practice was graded C with limited te reo Māori opportunities in meaningful contexts.
BestStart Alexandra
ERO assessed BestStart Alexandra as Not well placed in its 2020 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies strengths in children's wellbeing, where children are settled and engaged with good peer relationships. However, the service received C grades across curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance, with areas for development including variable assessment practices, inconsistent responsiveness to parent aspirations, and strengthening of cultural integration.
BestStart Riverbend Road
ERO assessed BestStart Riverbend Road as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all five dimensions: children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance. The ERO report noted that while the service demonstrated strengths including settled children, collaborative parent engagement, and strong bicultural presence, the overall assessment indicated concerns requiring attention.
BestStart Montel Avenue
ERO assessed BestStart Montel Avenue as Not well placed in April 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified sound curriculum teaching and health and safety systems (Grade B), but noted bicultural practice was in early stages with te reo knowledge development as an ongoing goal (Grade C). Leadership demonstrated a collaborative approach supporting improvement.
BestStart Montessori St Albans
ERO assessed BestStart Montessori St Albans as Not well placed in June 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong Montessori curriculum delivery and effective whānau partnership (both grade B), but noted that bicultural practice requires further development (grade C), and Te Whāriki incorporation could be expanded. Health and safety systems and leadership were assessed as grade B.
BestStart Mangorei Road
ERO assessed BestStart Mangorei Road as Not well placed in February 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report identified sound curriculum implementation and effective whānau partnership (both B grades), but noted areas for development in bicultural practice and health and safety compliance (both C grades). The service was working to address a window safety non-compliance issue.
BestStart South Road 2
ERO assessed BestStart South Road 2 as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified positive relationships between staff and children, but noted that whānau Māori partnerships and bicultural practice need strengthening, including greater use of te reo Māori in daily activities.
BestStart Railway Road
ERO assessed BestStart Railway Road as Not well placed (2018). Our analysis of the ERO report found Health & safety was graded B, with ratios exceeding minimum requirements and legal compliance affirmed. Bicultural practice was graded C, with bicultural foundations developing and te reo Māori use needing strengthening.
BestStart Stoddard Road
ERO assessed BestStart Stoddard Road as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, but found curriculum and learning and bicultural practice required development, particularly in cultural responsiveness and te reo Māori integration.
BestStart Pleasant Point
BestStart Wainoni Road
ERO assessed BestStart Wainoni Road as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified sound practices across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance, with all four dimensions graded B.
BestStart Judea
ERO assessed BestStart Judea as Not well placed in 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths across all dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and leadership and governance all received top grades. Despite these assessed strengths in individual areas, ERO's overall placement indicates concerns about how effectively the service was operating as a whole at that time.
BestStart Great North Road
ERO assessed BestStart Great North Road as Not well placed in September 2016. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership, all graded B. Bicultural practice was identified as an area requiring development, graded C.
BestStart Cornwall Street
ERO assessed BestStart Cornwall Street as not well placed in May 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service demonstrated strong bicultural practice (Grade A) with Te ao Māori embedded throughout, and achieved Grade B in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, and leadership and governance.
BestStart Kaikorai Valley Road
BestStart Kaikorai Valley Road is an education and care service in Bradford, Dunedin. Our analysis of the ERO report from August 2022 found sound performance across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance, with all dimensions graded B. The service offers a curriculum with choice and range of experiences, though documentation could better reflect children's identity and culture.
BestStart Montessori Bethlehem
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in their November 2019 review. No detailed dimension grades are currently available for this centre.
BestStart Marshland Road
ERO assessed BestStart Marshland Road as Not well placed in May 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service showed strengths in play-based learning, children's wellbeing, and whānau partnership (all graded B), but identified bicultural practice as an area requiring strengthening (graded C), with greater priority needed for te reo Māori and tikanga integration.
BestStart Te Heuheu Street Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong performance across all four dimensions assessed: Children's wellbeing, Whānau partnership, Bicultural practice, and Leadership & governance each received the highest grade.
BestStart Flat Bush
ERO assessed BestStart Flat Bush as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received B grades across all six dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance.
BestStart West Melton
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed in its 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, with well-planned intentional teaching and strong Te Whāriki implementation, and in whānau partnership, with strong parent partnerships and family input driving curriculum design.
BestStart Maunu Village
ERO assessed BestStart Maunu Village as Not well placed in June 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum planning, children's wellbeing, and whānau partnership (all grade B), while bicultural practice was identified as an area requiring further development (grade C).
BestStart North Road
ERO assessed BestStart North Road as Not well placed in June 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report found strength in curriculum and learning (A grade) and bicultural practice (A grade), though the overall placement indicates concerns in other areas of service operation.
BestStart Elles Road
BestStart Elles Road is an education and care service for 75 children in Invercargill. Our analysis of the ERO report found strengths in curriculum alignment with Te Whāriki and health and safety practices, but noted areas for development in whānau partnership integration and bicultural practice, particularly in building teacher capability for te reo Māori and tikanga.
BestStart Weymouth
ERO assessed BestStart Weymouth as Not well placed in October 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified children's wellbeing and whānau partnership as strengths, with positive environments and good communication noted, though overall service performance required development in other areas.
BestStart Bader Street
ERO assessed BestStart Bader Street as Not well placed in their 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in bicultural practice and curriculum, with effective health and safety systems, though assessment and planning practices were noted as an area for development.
BestStart Vardon Road
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in its 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance, though the overall placement indicates significant concerns requiring attention.
BestStart Mount Wellington
ERO assessed BestStart Mount Wellington as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified curriculum and learning as an area requiring development, with planning and assessment processes needing consistency improvements. The service demonstrated strengths in children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and health and safety.
BestStart Bay Kindy
ERO assessed BestStart Bay Kindy as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified whānau partnership as a developing area, with particular need to strengthen parent voice in assessment and planning.
BestStart Baverstock Oaks
ERO assessed BestStart Baverstock Oaks as Not well placed in November 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received B grades across all dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance.
BestStart Johnstones Road Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in 2019. Our analysis of the ERO report found strong performance in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, health and safety, and leadership, with consistent te reo and tikanga use identified as a strength and Pacific cultural responses as an area for development.
BestStart Greenwood Street
ERO assessed BestStart Greenwood Street as Not well placed in their 2019 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B for whānau partnership, with ongoing family consultation and improvement-focused evaluation, and B for health and safety, though evacuation drills testing a variety of scenarios were identified as an area for improvement.
BestStart Waitangirua
BestStart Waitangirua is an education and care service in Waitangirua. Our analysis of the ERO report identified B grades across children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance. The service maintains respectful interactions and calm environments, has addressed health and safety non-compliances, and operates an established internal evaluation cycle.
BestStart Porchester Road
BestStart Fendalton
ERO assessed BestStart Fendalton as Not well placed in 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and health and safety (all grade B), with bicultural practice (grade C) identified as an area for development.
BestStart Powells Road Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in their 2016 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning (A grade) and children's wellbeing (A grade), though the overall placement indicates significant concerns were identified across other areas of service delivery.
BestStart Papakura
ERO assessed BestStart Papakura as Not well placed in its 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service achieved B grades in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and health and safety, but received a C grade in leadership and governance, where strategic planning was identified as needing clearer goals, action plans, and progress monitoring systems.
BestStart Naenae
BestStart Naenae is an education and care service with a roll of 80 children. Our analysis of the ERO report identified concerns in bicultural practice and health and safety, with both areas graded as requiring significant improvement. The service's curriculum was noted as not adequately reflecting and respecting diverse cultures including Māori families, and deficiencies were identified in health and safety compliance, excursion procedures, and hazard checks.
BestStart Marne Street
ERO assessed BestStart Marne Street as not well placed in its 2017 review. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B for bicultural practice, with te reo and tikanga visible and a commitment to strengthen this area.
BestStart Faringdon
ERO assessed the service as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report found the curriculum and learning was strong with well-considered experiences meeting developmental needs. Bicultural practice was graded as competent overall, with strong iwi links evident, though the review identified a need to strengthen understanding of Pacific cultures.
BestStart Prestons
ERO assessed BestStart Prestons as Not well placed in 2020. Our analysis of the ERO report found that curriculum and learning requires further development, with assessment and planning in early stages of improvement. Health and safety systems were sound, with management structures and policies supporting compliance.
BestStart Portage Road Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed. Our analysis of the ERO report identified curriculum and learning as requiring development, with programme planning needing to be more responsive and intentional. Other areas including children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance were assessed more positively.
BestStart Karaka
ERO assessed BestStart Karaka as Not well placed in December 2017. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership, but noted bicultural practice as an area requiring development.
BestStart Pyes Pa
ERO assessed BestStart Pyes Pa as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the curriculum offered effective learning opportunities (B grade), though assessment practices were identified for improvement. Children's wellbeing was supported through positive interactions and nurturing relationships (B grade), with transitions noted as an area for further development.
BestStart Waikite Valley Kindy
BestStart Brooklyn
ERO assessed BestStart Brooklyn as Not well placed in 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service received C grades across Curriculum & learning, Bicultural practice, and Leadership & governance. The teaching team was in early stages of developing curriculum and Te Whāriki understanding, bicultural practices were developing but te reo Māori use needed strengthening, and leadership required greater focus on internal evaluation.
BestStart Richmond Kindy
ERO assessed this service as Not well placed in its 2018 review. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strong leadership and governance, but noted that bicultural practice requires significant development in the curriculum.
BestStart East Tamaki Road
BestStart East Tamaki Road is an education and care service in Papatoetoe with a current roll of 100 children. Our analysis of the 2019 ERO report found B grades across curriculum and learning, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, and health and safety. No overall ERO placement was recorded.
BestStart Cranford Street
ERO assessed BestStart Cranford Street as Not well placed in June 2018. Our analysis of the ERO report identified strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance (all grade A), with bicultural practice graded B. The overall placement reflects concerns beyond these individual dimension grades.
BestStart Mangere East 3
BestStart Mangere East 3 is an education and care service in Mangere East with a roll of 116 children. Our analysis of the ERO report found consistent B grades across curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance.
BestStart Warrington
BestStart Warrington's most recent ERO review was in March 2021. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all dimensions: curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance. The review noted effective teaching interactions and comprehensive systems supporting children's wellbeing and safety.
BestStart Kelvin Grove
BestStart Kelvin Grove is an education and care service in Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North, with a current roll of 100 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from June 2019 found health and safety systems graded B, indicating they effectively promote a safe environment.
BestStart Silverstream
Beststart Melling
Beststart Melling is an education and care service in Lower Hutt Central with a current roll of 98 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from October 2020 found the service graded B across children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance, indicating positive interactions between children and staff and reasonable steps to meet regulatory standards.
BestStart Oraha Road
BestStart Oraha Road is an education and care service in Kumeū-Huapai North with a current roll of 80 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from December 2020 found the curriculum is inclusive and responsive to children's learning needs (grade B), and cultural confidence and respect for cultures are actively encouraged (grade B).
BestStart Borman Road
BestStart Borman Road is an education and care service in Rototuna North, Hamilton with a current roll of 58 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from October 2020 grades the service as B across all five dimensions: Curriculum & learning, Children's wellbeing, Bicultural practice, Health & safety, and Leadership & governance. The service demonstrates effective teaching, positive relationships, and acknowledgement of Māori as tangata whenua, with regulatory standards met and internal evaluation processes supporting ongoing improvement.
BestStart Taita
BestStart Taita is an education and care service in Taita with a roll of 87 children. Our analysis of the May 2021 ERO report found B grades across Curriculum & learning, Children's wellbeing, Health & safety, and Leadership & governance, indicating the service meets expected standards in these areas.
BestStart Pinnacles
BestStart Pinnacles is an education and care service in Northlake with 80 children enrolled. Our analysis of the ERO report grades Curriculum & learning as B, noting responsive curriculum with intentional teaching and Te Whāriki-aligned assessment. Health & safety was graded B, with compliance demonstrated and one non-compliance issue addressed since the visit.
BestStart Coast Boulevard
BestStart Coast Boulevard is an education and care service in Papamoa with a current roll of 90 children. Our analysis of the ERO report identified teaching practice as an area requiring strengthening in curriculum and learning. The service demonstrated effective whānau partnerships, met health and safety standards, and had suitable governance and management systems in place.
BestStart Faringdon East
BestStart Faringdon East is an education and care service in Faringdon with a current roll of 105 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from October 2020 found the service graded B across children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance, indicating children are supported as confident learners with positive relationships, health and safety policies are regularly reviewed, and staffing includes over 80% qualified teachers.
BestStart Omokoroa
BestStart Omokoroa's most recent ERO review (March 2021) did not assign an overall placement. Our analysis of the ERO report found the service graded B across all five dimensions: curriculum and learning is child-centred and Te Whāriki-linked with responsive teaching; children's wellbeing is supported through positive and respectful interactions; whānau partnerships are responsive to parent aspirations; health and safety standards are met; and leadership and governance are clearly structured.
BestStart Botany Junction
BestStart Glen Eden
This education and care service in Glen Eden has established health and safety procedures. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies te reo Māori opportunities as an area for further development in bicultural practice.
BestStart Kauri Flats
BestStart Cambridge
BestStart Cambridge is an education and care service in Leamington with a current roll of 60. Our analysis of the ERO report (February 2021) found the service graded B across all dimensions: curriculum and learning includes a range of inclusive experiences, children's wellbeing shows positive interactions and social competence development, health and safety standards are met, and leadership and governance operate to regulatory standards.
BestStart Barrington
BestStart Huntington
BestStart Huntington is an education and care service in Rototuna North with a current roll of 100 children. Our analysis of the ERO report from May 2021 found the service graded B in bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance. Diverse cultures are acknowledged and respected, health and safety standards are met, and a clear management structure is in place.
BestStart Waiata Shores
BestStart Shelly Bay Road
BestStart Shelly Bay Road was reviewed by ERO in November 2021. Our analysis of the ERO report identifies strengths in health and safety practices and leadership structure, with opportunities to expand te reo Māori integration in meaningful contexts across the service.
BestStart Totara Park
BestStart Totara Park is an education and care centre in Totara Park, Upper Hutt, with a current roll of 73 children. Our analysis of the ERO report (October 2022) found B grades across children's wellbeing, health and safety, and leadership and governance, indicating consistent systems and a calm environment with respectful teacher engagement.
BestStart Papamoa Plaza
BestStart Papamoa Plaza is an education and care service in Papamoa with a current roll of 90. Our analysis of the ERO report from February 2022 found the service graded B across all assessed dimensions: children's wellbeing, bicultural practice, health and safety, and leadership and governance. The service has health and safety systems in place and has identified areas for development including children's conflict management, documentation of identity and culture, and professional learning opportunities.
BestStart Dixon Heights
BestStart Dixon Heights is an education and care service in Glenview with a roll of 70 children. Our analysis of the ERO report (March 2022) graded curriculum and learning, bicultural practice, and health and safety all at B level, indicating sound practice across these areas.
BestStart Whangaparaoa
BestStart Halswell Junction
Freckles Early Learning Centre
BestStart Pukekohe West
BestStart Huntsbury
BestStart Silverdale
BestStart Birkdale
BestStart Flat Bush School Road
BestStart Ferry Road
BestStart Te Whāriki
BestStart Murphys Park
BestStart Kensington Crossing
BestStart Highfield
BestStart Sir Tristram Avenue
BestStart Delta Avenue
BestStart Beach Haven
BestStart Paerata Rise
BestStart Bremner Road
BestStart Hanleys Farm
BestStart Berryfields Crossing
BestStart Milson Line
BestStart Lakeside Village
BestStart Orewa West
BestStart Bayfair
BestStart Kotātā Heights
BestStart Hobsonville
BestStart Longbay
BestStart Parau Drive
BestStart Riccarton Park
BestStart Wooing Tree
BestStart Park Green
BestStart West Village
BestStart Montessori Kilbirnie
BestStart Montessori Kilbirnie is an education and care service in Wellington with 26 children on roll. Our analysis of the ERO report shows strengths in curriculum and learning, children's wellbeing, whānau partnership, and leadership and governance (all grade B), with bicultural practice identified as an area for development (grade C). The service was reviewed by ERO in June 2021.
Showing first 200 of 263. Full list available via /api/operator/beststart/centres.json (coming soon).
Frequently asked
- How many centres does BestStart Educare have?
- BestStart Educare operates 263 licensed early childhood services across New Zealand.
- Is BestStart Educare a chain or independent?
- Centre-based chain
- Does BestStart Educare participate in 20 Hours ECE?
- Most BestStart Educare centres participate in 20 Hours ECE for 3-5 year olds. Confirm directly with the individual centre for current participation and any optional charges.
Data sources & freshness (4 sources · last refresh 12 July 2026)
Service type, address, roll, ethnicity, Equity Index, 20 Hours, Takiwā, lat/lng
Annual financial returns (community-based + umbrella orgs)
Per-centre review reports + 6-dimension letter grades (curriculum / wellbeing / whānau / bicultural / health & safety / leadership)
Safety score, crime/1k, 2023 Census demographics
Last build refresh: . See full methodology + data sources pages for licences, refresh cadences, and known gaps.