Kidsfirst Avonhead

Avonhead

Avonhead Kindergarten opened on the 8th of February 1967.

The day the sand arrived for the new sandpit was a big day at our kindy…

860x369 Hero Avonhead_0000_New Sandpit 1998

An exciting day in 1989 when tamariki were able to watch sand filling their new sandpit.

The photo above is from 1989 when the Avonhead Kindergarten sandpit got a makeover and the digger arrived with (literally) a truckload of sand. Eager eyes watched as the sand filled up the empty space from the big mechanical arm that appeared from the other side of the fence.

The children could hardly curb their enthusiasm at the thought of getting in and playing in the fresh, golden sand.

Sandpits are so much a part of the kiwi way of growing up and a great memory from many of our childhoods. They’ve certainly been a constant at kindergartens in our community over the years.

“One of the highlights of the year was the advent of a load of sand for the sandpit. This arrived in a ‘tip-up’ truck, and great was the excitement! – the Jungle – gym was soon crowded with interested spectators who had a grandstand view of the proceedings!” – Christchurch Kindergarten Chronicle, 1942

1030x579 Gallery Avonhead_0006_Bucket Potatoes

A team from Bunnings donate equipment for the kindy.

1030x579 Gallery Avonhead_0007_Cart Riding

Tamariki zoom around our great big backyard on their trikes, getting ready for their wheelathon.

Memories from our kindergarten album:

The ever-popular sandpit, still a staple all these years later.
Avonhead kindergarten has big open spaces for tamariki to explore, and lots of trees and shade to relax in.
Kidsfirst Avonhead tamariki give a puppet show for their adoring audience, date unknown.
There’s nothing like zooming around a big kindergarten backyard on a bike.
Having an opportunity to play with friends, and learning important social skills have always been important in the kindergarten philosophy
Kidsfirst Avonhead tamariki have always loved exploring the kindergarten’s big backyard.
On a hot summer day, the water table is always a hub of activity.
The kindergaten’s big backyard has developed over the years, but the laughter and enjoyment of tamariki have always remained constant.
Whānau and tamariki participate in Kidsfirst Avonhead’s cake auction in 2015.
There’s more you can do with a potter’s wheel than make pots as these children discover.
Kidsfirst Avonhead is always a hub of budding artists, and tamariki love to express themselves, date unknown.
There was a Cake Auction in 2015 with a delicious array of baking ready to find good homes.
Whānau and some good kai make a great combination at kindergarten.
A 2015 Art Exhibition showcased the talents of the tamariki.
Friends and whānau turned out for Avonhead’s Matariki celebrations in 2017.
The 2018 Cake Auction was a huge success. Where would kindy be without all those decades of cake stalls?
A simple message of love in te reo Māori and Sign Language for Mother’s Day, 2018.
Signed with a handprint for Mother’s Day, 2018, the message reads – “I am like a flower that is raised with love by you. You help me grow up big and strong Mum. Thank you for all you do.”
The playground and big backyard as it was in 2012