Sometimes, change comes unexpectedly.
In early 2025, an pipe burst overnight in the kitchen at New Shoots Tauranga. The subsequent flooding covered a large portion of the hallway, kitchen and entry area, causing significant damage to floors, walls, and furnishings.
At the time, the centre had just celebrated an important milestone — 2024 had marked the 10 year anniversary of being part of the Tauranga community. With this strong foundation already in place, what could have been a simple repair became something much more meaningful.
It became an opportunity to reset, refresh, and reimagine the space for the next chapter.
A Centre Reimagined
Rather than replacing what was damaged like-for-like, the decision was made to elevate the entire environment.
The interior transformation included new flooring, a redesigned kitchen and cabinetry, updated furniture and resources, and a full repaint. Thoughtful additions, from soft furnishings to curated materials, helped bring each space together in a way that was both intentional and welcoming.
All of this was completed while the centre remained open. Spaces were worked through in stages, with rooms reset one by one, maintaining continuity for tamariki while steadily building towards the finished result.
Jen Gaylard, Centre Director at Tauranga New Shoots, shared that being involved in the centre refit gave her an immense sense of pride in the space and how it supports tamariki to grow, learn and play each day. Both kaiako and tamariki have benefited from how the renovated indoor and outdoor spaces supports the delivery of quality education and the achievement of developmental milestones.
“Tamariki are encouraged to be curious and courageous as they explore with wonder and excitement in their home away from home,” says Jen. “There are a range of spaces and opportunities for them to learn and play, both independently and alongside their friends and kaiako.
“They especially love the quiet nooks and pockets of space that spark their imagination, as well as the covered sandpit, water feature and bike track, which allow them to explore the outdoors in all weather.”
A Community That Made It Possible
Undertaking a project of this scale while the centre remained open required patience, trust, and adaptability.
Whānau showed incredible understanding throughout the process, supporting the centre through temporary disruptions and changes to spaces and routines.
“The patience and support from our parents and whānau during the whole project was exceptional,” says Jen. “It made a world of difference to keeping the project on track, as we maintained our high standards of care and education for our tamariki.”
At the same time, our kaiako responded with creativity and care. Even when parts of the outdoor environment were unavailable, they ensured tamariki continued to experience meaningful time outdoors. This included more frequent walks to local parks and playgrounds, and rethinking how spaces were used day to day.
The community’s response during this time of transition was a clear reflection of what sits at the heart of New Shoots. Environments matter, but it is the people within them who make the difference.
Creating a New Outdoor Space
In addition to the interior reset, the playground underwent a complete redesign.
This was a collaborative effort, led by our Property, Projects and Compliance Lead, Tim Neville alongside Scott McLean from Construction2, with input from the centre team. Key partners included Karl Pomare from Tranquil Terrains, who supported the soft landscaping and problem-solving on site, and EcoLawn, who installed the artificial turf.
The previous outdoor space had served the centre well over time, but there was an opportunity to enhance how it supported children’s play and learning. Improvements to drainage, a wider range of play experiences, and a more intentional layout became key areas of focus.
The result is a dynamic outdoor environment that invites tamariki to explore in different ways.
“The recent upgrades to our classrooms and playground have been fantastic,” shares Saul, New Shoots Tauranga’s Preschool Team Leader. “Our preschool tamariki are more engaged in their play throughout the day.
“The bike track has been a real highlight, with tamariki learning to wait, take turns, and share with their friends. There are also many new pockets within the outdoor environment where children can explore independently or together.
“You’ll often see tamariki moving through these spaces with excitement as they play and learn. The water play feature is a favourite. It offers endless opportunities, with imagination and creativity leading the way.”
As well as the new bike track, a water play area, climbing elements, open play spaces, and quieter zones all work together to create a balanced and engaging environment. Spaces for messy play, carpentry, and gardening sit alongside areas designed for rest and reflection.
The transformation of New Shoots Tauranga marks the beginning of a new chapter.
One that builds on 10 years of connection within the local community, while creating spaces that better support the way tamariki learn and grow today.
More than anything, it reflects a shared commitment to quality environments, intentional teaching, and creating places where children and families grow together.
Come and See It For Yourself
The best way to understand what makes New Shoots Tauranga special is to experience it in person.
We invite you to visit, meet our team, and explore the spaces that have been intentionally designed to support your child’s learning and development.
Whether you’re just starting your early learning journey or looking for a place that feels right, we’d love to connect. Learn more about our Tauranga centre here or book a tour.