The benefits of a strong, robust Association was evident back in the sixties when Kidsfirst Wigram opened, in comparison to smaller or independent kindergartens that were working hard to maintain their presence and often struggling in the face of meagre resources and funding.

At the time, a sense of growing professionalism helped solidify the position of CWFKA (Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association), as it was known then, with its expanding network of kindergartens.

Today, a strong organisation like Kidsfirst offers so much more, particularly in the way of Head Office support. Before that, many kindergartens created and sustained themselves on sheer determination, goodwill and the generous support of local families and businesses.

We are fortunate today to have such a strong network. With nearly 70 kindergartens across Canterbury and the West Coast, plus Banks Peninsula and Central Otago, we have ample opportunity to share resources, ideas and most importantly – to be there for support when any  of our kindergartens needs it the most.