Kaiako - Early Childhood Educator

Job Description

Join Our Supportive Team of Passionate Early Childhood Educators

Are you a New Zealand-trained and certified Kaiako early childhood teacher looking for an inspiring and supportive workplace? With exceptional teacher-child ratios, an environment that nurtures creativity and imagination, and a range of staff benefits including above full pay parity- the University of Auckland is the place to be

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for a passionate and committed, ECE qualified and registered ECE Kaiako teacher to join our dynamic team at Te tupu O te Torea, nestled in the heart of the University of Auckland's City Campus.

With exceptional teacher-child ratios, our centre is licensed for 55 children aged 3 months to 6 years. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, innovative, and progressive care, learning, and teaching for our future generation.

This role is ideal for a fully certified kaiako who thrives in a mixed-age setting with ages 0-3.5, enjoys collaborating within a strong team culture, and is deeply committed to fostering positive learning experiences for tamariki.

This is a permanent, full-time position (40 hours per week). The salary range for this role is above above full pay parity (see our pay structure HERE), negotiable depending on skills and experience.

A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are an enthusiastic Kaiako with a few years of teaching experience, driven by a genuine passion for quality learning. As a self-motivated and reflective practitioner, you enjoy working proactively within a team and are always eager to engage in professional development.

You excel at creating a warm, inclusive environment where tamariki and whānau feel truly welcome, and you understand the importance of maintaining your own hauora to bring your best self to the role.

You bring an understanding of pedagogical knowledge, including some Te Whāriki, and are competent in managing planning, assessment, and compliance requirements.

Ideally, you will already have a foundation in basic te reo Māori, but you are keen to further develop your skills and integrate them into your daily practice. If you are an innovative educator who is open to learning and growing within a supportive, engaging community, we would love to hear from you.

E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking

• Is a New Zealand qualified and fully certified teacher with natural nurturing qualities and a passion for children's learning and development.
• Has experience working across all age groups, with a particular interest in working with our younger tamariki.
• Is self-motivated, enthusiastic, and able to apply current ECE theory to practice, with a strong working knowledge of Te Whāriki.
• Communicates effectively, confidently, and respectfully, building and maintaining strong relationships with whānau, colleagues, and tamariki.
• Thrives in a collaborative team environment that values whakawhanaungatanga (strong relationships and connections).
• Has a growth mindset, open to reflection, professional learning, and adapting practice to enhance learning outcomes for children.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits, including:

• Above Full Pay parity (see our pay structure HERE)
• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave.
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver matching up to 6.75%
• Leading and inclusive parental leave options.
• Discounted Parking & Childcare
• Career development programmes and discounted on-site amenities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of Sunday, 11 January 2026. Your application should include:

• A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
• Your updated CV.

Please note that we do not accept email applications. For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Ruwinaaz Subhani (Centre Leader)

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to