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House of Wonder Christchurch has maintained the authentic and traditional characteristics of this iconic mansion, converting it into a unique, homely Early Learning Village, which serves as a wonderful hub of love and creative passion for tamariki.
House of Wonder’s unique, innovative holistic approach to early childhood education has gained national and international recognition. Fusing together the latest research in neuroscience and learning philosophy our centres provide a truly remarkable experience for our children and families.
Welcome to House of Wonder Early Learning Village. Heres a bit about our spaces!
Rakiraki (Infants)
In our pēpi space, learning unfolds through curiosity, exploration and relationships. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we honour freedom of movement, allowing tamariki the time and space to explore and follow their natural interests, while our environment acts as the third teacher. As kaiako, we work alongside tamariki as co-constructors and facilitators of learning, responding to their cues and emerging ideas. With a small group of around 10 tamariki and three kaiako, we value the belief that it takes a village – he kāinga kotahi tātou, where every child is known and supported. We celebrate our bicultural foundation and multicultural community, weaving te reo Māori, diverse cultures and whānau connections into our everyday learning.
Wāna Rūma (Nursery)
In Wāna Rūma, the world is a place to explore, and every discovery matters. With just 20 children and four dedicated kaiako, our youngest learners feel safe, seen, and valued.
This warm, inviting space is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach: calm, yet full of opportunities for curiosity, creativity, and sensory play. From messy art to hands-on experiments, children are encouraged to communicate, imagine, and develop independence.
Occasional adventures into our local community extend learning beyond the centre, helping tamariki form connections and fostering a lifelong love of exploration.
Putakitaki (Toddlers)
Putakitaki is a world of wonder, designed for growing explorers. Here, tamariki are free to make choices, express themselves, and develop confidence at their own pace.
Our kaiako provide warm, responsive guidance, supporting emotional well-being while encouraging friendships, social skills, and independence. Through hands-on experiences and playful provocations, every child is celebrated, every voice is heard, and every moment is an invitation to discover.
Whio Rūma (Preschool)
Whio Rūma is home to curious minds ready to take on new challenges. In this space, every child belongs, and every learning journey is respected.
Following the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we create both indoor and outdoor experiences that inspire exploration, creativity, and problem-solving. Tamariki engage with their friends and kaiako, building confidence, independence, and a true love of learning through meaningful play and relationships.
Kōtuku Rūma (Prep School)
Kōtuku Rūma prepares tamariki for school and life beyond, fostering independence, leadership, and a sense of belonging—values embodied by the kōtuku, the white heron.
Our child-led curriculum responds to each child’s emerging interests, inviting them to explore, create, and express themselves in countless ways. The environment itself acts as a “third teacher,” encouraging curiosity, problem-solving, and confidence.
Cultural diversity is celebrated every day through arts, stories, and learning experiences, while strong connections with whānau and the wider community ensure tamariki feel empowered, capable, and ready for the next step in their learning journey.
Food and Nutrition
Our inhouse cook provides freshly made meals for children each day using our Nourish menus and recipes, based on the New Zealand Heart Foundation Tohu Manawa Ora | Healthy Heart Award for Early Learning Centres. We believe that through nourishing food, children are fueled to thrive physically and mentally, whilst enjoying the benefits of coming together and connecting as a group at mealtimes.
Teachers also do regular baking with the children, which provides them opportunities to engage and learn a range of food preparations skills and fine motor movements such as pouring, sifting, spooning. It is a great hands on sensory experience for children to develop independence through self-help skills, practice simple maths as they measure and count quantities.
Sustainability
Engaging children in activities like gardening, composting, and understanding the lifecycle of plants not only promotes environmental awareness but also inspires important life skills and values. Children place fruit and vegetable scraps in the compost bin provided by the Christchurch City Council which gets collected once a week.
Philosophy
From a foundation of love and attachment our philosophy creates and empowering environment for children to grow, create and prosper.
Learning Model
Based on the importance of listening to the ideas and theories of children, our learning model provides spaces for children to construct their own learning.
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