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Nau mai, haere mai — welcome to Dannevirke Kindergartens! 

Dannevirke Central Kindergarten has been a proud part of our community since 1949, with Appleton Kindergarten joining in 1979.

Across the decades, our kindergartens have fostered a love of learning in warm, vibrant, and inclusive environments.

Generations of whānau have entrusted their tamariki to our care — and continue to do so today.

We work in genuine partnership with whānau to empower every child to grow as a happy, confident, and capable lifelong learner.

Our two centres offer high-quality early childhood education for tamariki aged two to six, guided by fully qualified and registered kaiako.

Choose Dannevirke Kindergartens for an early learning journey that nurtures curiosity, embraces diversity, and builds a strong foundation for life.

Antoinette-Perry

Antoinette Perry, General Manager, celebrated 30 years working for the Dannevirke Kindergarten Association in 2025.

Antoinette is responsible for the day to day running of both Appleton and Dannevirke Central Kindergartens ensuring that quality teaching and learning is delivered in fit for purpose environments.

The Dannevirke Kindergarten Association is a proud member of NZ Kindergartens (NZK) and is governed by the NZK Network Board.
A message from the NZK Chief Executive Officer, Jill Bond. 
Kindergarten in Aotearoa New Zealand has a proud and enduring legacy, grounded in community values and a belief in the power of early education. Since the first Kindergarten opened in Dunedin in 1889, the movement has grown to include 27 local Kindergarten Associations operating around 669 services nationwide. Inspired by the Froebelian philosophy that children learn best through play, creativity, nature, and human connection, New Zealand Kindergartens (NZK) continues to uphold these values through high-quality, teacher-led early childhood education. Our Froebelian Principles connect and complement Te Whāriki, our national curriculum, and Te Ao Māori, all three are central to what we do and how we do it.
New Zealand Kindergartens (NZK) is a national Peak Body representing 19 community-based Kindergartens across the motu. As a member, you are part of a powerful collective committed to delivering excellence across governance, leadership, business, and advocacy. NZK provides access to professional development, shared systems, expert advice, and national advocacy that strengthens your voice and enhances your impact. Together, we work to protect and progress the legacy of Kindergarten, supporting Tamariki, whānau, and communities now and into the future.

Debbie has worked as a teacher at Hutt City Kindergartens for 20 years, including 10 years as a Head Teacher.

Her teaching philosophy is firmly grounded in building relationships, nature-based play, and sustainability.

In her role as Senior Teacher for the Dannevirke Kindergarten Association, Debbie provides guidance, empowerment, and support to Head Teachers and Teachers, as well as support to the General Manager and NZK.

Fiona Robson, Administrator, supports the general manager located at the Association office. Fiona has been with the association for 25 years.

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