Portobelo Kaiapoi
About Portobelo Kaiapoi
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 Portobelo Kaiapoi, it is best to ask the centre directly how they apply 20 Hours ECE.
Community Profile
Roll & age distribution
Portobelo Kaiapoi currently has a roll of 78 children tamariki , with most children enrolled in the 1–5 years age band.
Ethnicity profile
European tamariki are the largest group (72% of the roll), alongside māori, pacific, asian, 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
“After we moved to Kaiapoi, Portobelo was recommended to us from a friend. It was only a few doors down from us as well but has a big outdoor space we thought our son would love. He has since been there nearly 2 years and is thriving. The teachers are great. Very accommodating for each child's needs. The outdoor space again, is incredible.”
“My daughter is about to end her 2.5 year journey with Portobelo as she heads off to school. Absolutely no complaints here! The teachers are amazing, communication is great, the outdoor area is just what we were after - lots to do and a natural, grassed area with plenty of things to play on and climb. Thanks for having us the past couple of years, we will miss this preschool!”
“We are so happy we found Portobelo Kaiapoi after visiting multiple different early childhood centres! They have a family feel, with fantastic ratios, values and teachers. Our little one can't wait to get in the door. I was an anxious mum, whose mind was put at ease straight away by the staff and how well they cater for each child's individual needs. The communication and flexibility is outstanding. They genuinely care about you and your whānau! Can't recommend them enough!”
“I visited a number of different preschools before choosing Portobelo Kaiapoi and certainly have no regrets. From the start, my impressions have only been positive and it is clear that the teachers genuinely care about the children. My boys had not spent much time away from me before, so the gradual, supportive settling period was crucial and made the transition easier for everyone - especially me! I am also really happy with how my boys' extra needs have been supported and how easy it is to communicate with the teachers. Thank you for your part in helping my children thrive.”
“Portobelo has been a lovely early learning centre for my son, he looks forward to going every day, and enjoys the social interactions and activities. All the staff are super nice and really listen and understand my son's needs and wants.”
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.
Daycare Essentials ChecklistOther centres nearby
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