New early learning centre focused on kids, connections and cultures

 

It’s official. The new long-awaited early learning and care centre, Miniwhais, is now open, offering Mangawhai’s youngest residents a large, safe space to adventure, play and explore.

Situated on the edge of the lake at ‘The Sanctuary’ with a playground licensed by the Ministry of Education for more than 150 children, Miniwhais offers the smallest people in the local community ‘an exquisite space to learn and develop freely in an unrushed and unhurried manner’. 

Owners and designers Natasha and John Lee have put their heart and soul into the centre, saying that their determination and perseverance has paid off with the creation of a ‘beautiful building in a beautiful setting’ which they are delighted to share with families.

“We are extremely proud of the location we found and the building and playground that we’ve created and are thankful to all the families who have trusted us to care for their children,” Natasha says. “Miniwhais is focused on not only children but the environment as well, placing importance on the connections they have with the children and whanau, learning about each other’s cultures, beliefs, aspirations, and from each other’s knowledge and skills and the connection we all have with the environment.” 

Since opening the Lee’s have welcomed over 73 families and Natasha says they have received ‘an enormous amount’ of positive feedback. 

“There are very limited places left on a Monday and a Friday, so if you are interested, you need to get in quick.”
Though the couple are looking forward to working in the centre for a short while, there will be no rest for the hard workers as they are already embarking on a new project and can be found close by, working on designs for a cafe and restaurant right next door to Miniwhais. 

Located on the corner of Cove Road and Robert Hastie Drive, Miniwhais is open 7.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday for children 0-6 years old. Contact 431 4747, hello@miniwhais.co.nz or visit miniwhais.co.nz.

Owners and designers Natasha and John Lee have created a beautiful building in a beautiful setting. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Well appointed and resourced learning areas are a feature of the centre both inside and out. PHOTO/SUPPLIED