BestStart Karaka
About BestStart Karaka
About Education & Care Service
Education & Care Services are mainstream early learning centres that offer full-day or part-day care with a structured curriculum, qualified teachers, and a focus on learning through play. They cater to families needing flexible childcare options and wanting a balanced approach that supports social, physical, and early academic development in a diverse environment.
What Is 20 Hours ECE funding?
20 Hours ECE is a government-funded initiative that helps reduce the cost of early childhood education for families with tamariki aged 3–5. Eligible children can receive up to 20 hours of funded care and education each week at participating services. Centres can set their own enrolment patterns and may ask for optional charges, but the funded hours themselves should be free of compulsory fees. If you are unsure how this works at BestStart Karaka, it is best to ask the centre directly how they apply 20 Hours ECE.
Community Profile
Roll & age distribution
BestStart Karaka currently has a roll of 113 children tamariki , with most children enrolled in the 1–5 years age band.
Ethnicity profile
Asian tamariki are the largest group (45% of the roll), alongside european, māori, pacific, other children.
Roll and demographic figures are based on data supplied by the Ministry of Education and were last updated on 01/07/2024.
Parent Reviews
“We strongly recommend Beststart Karaka. Staff is very hard working, friendly, passionate and genuinely care for children. I have seen so much positive development in my son's personality and behavior. The activities are engaging and interesting. Special events celebration organised by Helen is very enjoyable, creative and fun. Jo is really energetic and always greets kids & families with a big smile.”
“They have given my little girl the best care. Fantastic staff always striving to better their learning & skills with children led to activities shared among the class planned out for the day. Love seeing them all so happy 🙂”
“Both my boys have been through Beststart, Karaka. We absolutely love and appreciate the kindess and genuine care that is shown. From the reception staff, to the teachers, the wonderful cook and of course amazing Helen....the relationships and connections are awesome. I appreciate the warmth and if I ever have had any questions or concerns, these have been addressed with the upmost care and compassion. I feel really lucky to have had my boys there and will miss you all when our youngest boy finishes up next year.”
“BestStart Karaka has been such a good Centre for us, the staff are so welcoming and caring and really get to know the kids and families. The transition to the Centre when we moved to Karaka was very smooth and the school visits have been so helpful preparing for school. Great facilities and my child loves the food. They have excellent community activities/info evenings/Christmas function. Highly recommend.”
“Karaka BestStart has truly become a second home for my little girl. Helen and her incredible team are the heart of this centre—always professional, kind, and deeply caring. From the moment we walked through the doors, I could feel how much they genuinely love and nurture every child in their care. They always have the children's best interests at heart and go above and beyond to make each child feel safe, happy, and supported. What really stands out is how they also support us as parents—whether it’s with thoughtful updates, encouragement, or simply being there to listen, Helen and her team consistently go the extra mile. It means the world to know that my daughter is surrounded by such a loving and dedicated group of people. Thank you for everything you do Helen—you’ve created a truly special place.”
Interested?
Contact the centre directly to check for availability or arrange a visit.
Getting ready for daycare?
See what your child will need for their day: labels, drink bottle, lunchbox, spare clothes, sunscreen and more.
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