Welcome to Nature's Nest

‘Where learning & discovery are nurtured by nature’

Nature’s Nest is a welcoming and happy environment where children, families
and whānau come to embark on a journey of learning and self-discovery
whilst growing a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world.

Whanau Care

At Natures Nest we recognise the importance
of an emotionally secure environment with
responsive adults that are in-tune with the needs
and wants of each child. Therefore, we strive to
maintain a peaceful and unhurried environment where
daily routines and rituals are relaxed and flexible and
where possible, reflect the home routines for each child.
This eases the transition for both child and family
from home to Nature’s Nest and creates consistency
and continuity of care for the child.
Attachment based teaching relationships fosters an
authentic sense of self and self-worth for children and
lays a foundation for secure relationships, enduring
curiosity and lasting self-confidence

Curriculum Design

Our curriculum design is founded in intentional teaching, centered around
the individual needs, interests and developmental stages of each child.
Guided by Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, we create
learning experiences that are responsive, engaging and relevant.
We value and incorporate the aspirations of families, ensuring that each child’s
learning journey is supported by a strong partnership between home
and the learning environment.

 Kia ora & Welcome to Nature’s Nest

At Nature’s Nest, we respond to each tamaiti (child’s) emotional needs with warmth and compassion, heart-based care encourages growth not only in life skills but also in social and emotional well-being, helping children thrive both personally and in their learning journey.

We create a nurturing space where tamariki (children) can thrive in harmony with the natural world. Our peaceful, serene environment offers a foundation for children to explore, learn and grow with a sense of respect and wonder. We believe that every child is a capable and competent learner with unique interests and abilities. Our approach celebrates their curiosity and potential.

Our team of passionate, skilled kaiako are dedicated to fostering respectful, loving relationships with each child, guiding their learning journey with care and attention. Through thoughtful documentation, we celebrate their growth and milestones, capturing their moments of discovery and connection.

At Nature’s Nest, we recognise that strong, trusting relationships (whānaungatanga) with whānau (families) are fundamental to a child’s development and well-being. We believe that whānau are their child’s first teachers and their input is invaluable in shaping the learning journey. By working closely with whānau, we gain deeper insights into each child’s unique needs, personalities and cultural background, allowing us to provide care that is truly personalised.

Nature’s Nest is open for care from 7.15am until 5.30pm, Monday through Friday. We also offer a school session 8.30am – 3.30pm. We are only closed for weekends and public holidays.
Please get in touch for more information, including our terms of trade and our enrolment packs.

Come and join us at Nature’s Nest, where tamariki experience the joy of learning through nature, creativity and respect.

Arnika Kennedy & Hayley Hargreaves

Natures Nest Warkworth   

You will find us at:


33 Glenmore Drive
(off Woodcocks Rd) Warkworth

Ph: 09 425 0511

 

About us

Hayley Hargreaves

Company Director of Natures Nest since 2011

As a parent of two and with over 26 years in Early Childhood Education, I understand the hopes and concerns families have when choosing a childcare centre. I also know firsthand the challenges of raising a child with life-threatening food and environmental allergies and how important it is to feel confident in the care your child receives.

These experiences have given me valuable insight into the vital role quality early education plays in a child’s life and inspired my ongoing commitment to excellence in this ever-evolving field.

At Nature’s Nest, my goal is to offer the highest standard of care in a beautiful, welcoming environment — a place where children feel safe, nurtured, and inspired to learn and grow.

Arnika Kennedy

Company Director of Natures Nest since 2011

Born and raised in Warkworth, I’m a qualified and registered teacher, as well as a proud parent of two. I understand the hopes, concerns and expectations parents have when choosing quality childcare.

I am committed to the values of teaching and the philosophy that underpins everything we do at Nature’s Nest. Building strong, authentic relationships with our children and families within our nature based learning centre.

I love supporting our children in discovering their potential, supporting their dreams and watching them thrive in the nurturing environment we’ve created at Nature’s Nest Warkworth.

Jodi Norton

Centre Manager of Nature's Nest ELC

Kia ora, I have over 25 years of experience in early childhood education across a variety of roles in both New Zealand and Australia. I bring both knowledge and passion to my work with tamariki and whānau.

I am married with two wonderful boys who inspire me every day. 

My teaching philosophy is strongly aligned with Nature’s Nest, where nature play and placing children at the heart of everything we do are at the core of our practice.

I also enjoy supporting and mentoring teachers, helping them to grow in confidence and capability as educators.  

What parents say …

We are really upset at having to leave Natures Nest due to moving out of the area, it is the BEST daycare I have come across! Apart from the fantastic facilities, natural environment and stimulating daily activities, the culture is what really makes it. All the staff are caring, welcoming and knowledgable and this is a great reflection of the fantastic influence that you and Hayley must provide.

Thank you so much for providing such an awesome learning   

We are extremely grateful for the wonderful learning that has encouraged our wee princess to grow and be challenged and we don’t for one minute take for granted the warm and caring environment you provide.

Her confidence is in part due to you all providing her with the right skills to develop & explore her very unique style.

Contact us

Nature's Nest

 33 Glenmore Drive
(off Woodcocks Rd)
Warkworth
Ph: 09 425 0511