https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rM2TDnxDNUo
rainbow transparent

A Place to Belong, Learn and Grow

Welcoming tamariki to explore, discover and develop through play in a warm, home like environment.

book a visit

Welcome to Portobelo Early Learning Centres

A warm, parent-owned centre for children aged 0–5, where tamariki feel at home and are supported to explore, learn and grow through play.

Our expansive outdoor spaces give tamariki room to run, climb and discover, cared for by kaiako who know them well.

Small centres with a family-like feel

100% qualified ECE kaiako

Large natural outdoor play spaces

Quality ratios and meaningful relationships

Portobelo Avonhead

Our Centres

Choose the Portobelo centre closest to your whānau.

  Avonhead

learn more

Kaiapoi  

learn more

Our Approach

At Portobelo, tamariki learn through curiosity, play and meaningful relationships. Guided by Te Whāriki, kaiako create calm and engaging environments where children feel a strong sense of belonging and confidence to explore.

Whanaungatanga

Relationships

Strong relationships help tamariki and whānau feel connected and supported.

Kaitiakitanga

Guardianship

Children develop curiosity and respect for the natural environment.

Manaakitanga

Kindness and Respect

Kindness, respect and aroha guide our everyday interactions and connections.

Whakamana

Empowerment

Children are encouraged to explore, take safe risks and develop confidence.

Our People

Our experienced kaiako build strong, caring relationships with every child and their whānau. With 100% qualified teachers, quality ratios, and a calm, nurturing approach, our team creates environments where tamariki feel safe, supported, and confident to explore and learn. Every child is known, valued, and encouraged to grow in their own unique way.

PortobeloAvonhead-tamariki-8

At Nurture Group, our people are our greatest strength. Every member of our team is intentionally chosen for their expertise, passion, and genuine commitment to nurturing the potential of every tamaiti.

Reading at Portobelo Avonhead

Our Kaiako (Teachers)

Our kaiako (teachers) are highly valued professionals who bring warmth, knowledge, and intention to their practice.

Through meaningful relationships and responsive teaching, they create environments where tamariki (children) feel a strong sense of belonging and are empowered to thrive.

Our Team Leaders

Our team leaders provide guidance, mentorship, and professional leadership within each learning space. They support the growth of our kaiako, ensuring teaching practice is reflective, intentional, and aligned with our values.

Our Centre Managers

Our centre managers lead each service with clarity and care. They oversee daily operations, support their teams, and ensure each centre consistently delivers high-quality education and a welcoming experience for whānau (families).

Our Business Support Manager

Working across all centres, our Business Support Manager ensures strong alignment in operations, supports leadership teams, and upholds compliance and quality standards across the group.

Our Directors

Our directors are passionate advocates for early childhood education and proud local mums. Their vision is grounded in creating environments where tamariki, whānau, and kaiako feel supported, valued, and inspired.

Our Centre Chefs

Our centre chefs prepare fresh, nourishing meals from our registered kitchens, in line with MPI standards. Each menu is thoughtfully designed to support tamariki health, wellbeing, and development.

Our Administration Team

Our administration team provides a seamless and welcoming experience for families. From enrolment through to daily communication, they ensure every whānau feels informed, supported, and connected.

What Whānau Say

“

My daughter absolutely loves going to Portobelo. All of the teachers are so kind and nurturing and provide wonderful experiences for her to engage in every day. The outdoor environment is amazing with real grass, flower gardens and trees to climb. It's like her home away from home.

Liss | Portobelo Avonhead
“

The teachers are amazing and have built such strong, genuine relationships with our child and our whānau. Our wee boy is so excited to attend every day, which really speaks volumes. Jo & Siobhan are always so approachable and incredibly accommodating. We feel so confident knowing our child is valued, supported, and happy.

Kelsey M. | Portobelo Kaiapoi
“

As my son prepares to head off to primary school, I can honestly say this place has played such a huge role in who he is today. Watching his confidence, independence, and love of learning develop over the years has been so special. We are so grateful for the memories, friendships, and foundations built here.

Kiriana B. | Portobelo Kaiapoi
“

The teachers are so nurturing and our son has the best time. He has really blossomed and learnt so much since attending. Love the outdoor space and the activities they provide. Added bonus that they supply all the food and nappies too, making life that much easier.

Amanda B. | Portobelo Avonhead

We’d Love to Meet You

 

Visiting is a great way to explore our spaces, meet our kaiako, and discover what makes Portobelo special.

You’re welcome to book a visit, or simply pop in and say kia ora.

Book a Visit