ECE Centre Manager | Busy Bees Kerikeri

An exciting opportunity is available at Busy Bees Kerikeri as our Centre Manager prepares to begin maternity leave. We are seeking expressions of interest for a permanent full-time role commencing in March 2027

Take the next step in your leadership career while enjoying the lifestyle and community that beautiful Kerikeri has to offer. Nestled in the heart of the Bay of Islands, Kerikeri is renowned for its stunning scenery, relaxed pace of life, thriving café culture, and easy access to beaches, walking trails, and outdoor adventures.

At Busy Bees Kerikeri, you'll lead a passionate team in a centre where fun, heart, and whanaungatanga are at the centre of everything we do. Supported by the wider Busy Bees Aotearoa whānau, you'll have the opportunity to inspire your team, drive excellence, and make a lasting impact on tamariki and whānau in a welcoming community you'll be proud to call home.

Why Us? | Hei aha mātou?  

• Salary of $101,120 per annum. 
• Supportive environment for 1 on 1 coaching   
• Backing from a national support network with a supportive local feel.  
• Access to EAP, a culture of open communication, and a focus on wellbeing.  
• Ongoing professional growth through leadership development courses and mentoring.  
• Discounted childcare fees and free annual flu vaccinations.  

The Opportunity | Te Āheinga   

• Lead the centre performance while building of a high-performing team.  
• Deliver quality care and education with a focus on compliance and financial results.  
• Mentor kaiako through Professional Growth Cycles and 1:1 developmental discussion.  
• Implement centre-specific strategic plans and robust internal curriculum evaluations.  
• Manage occupancy, enrolments, and staff rosters to meet agreed targets.  
• Build deep community connections as the visible face and reputation of the centre.  
• Ensure Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the foundation of a bicultural approach to education.  

About You | Mōu  

• Hold a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) or an equivalent NZQA approved qualification and current teacher registration.  
• Bring proven experience in a leadership role within the ECE sector with a passion for coaching and mentoring staff.  
• Possess in-depth knowledge of Te Whāriki, MOE / ERO Regulations, Licensing Criteria, and Teaching Council requirements.  
• Experience working with childcare management software and an understanding of enrolments, rosters, and occupancy targets.  
• Committed to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensures Te Reo Māori and tikanga are woven into daily life.  

 If you're an experienced Centre Manager who is passionate about fostering strong relationships, building community, and creating a genuine sense of belonging, we would love to connect with you. 

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and why this opportunity excites you. 

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand  

Why Work for Busy Bees?
If you’re passionate about early learning, Busy Bees is the place to be. Although we are part of a global organisation, our company was founded by three families looking for better, more enriching childcare. Three decades later, we still keep the same values at heart.

We know that we couldn’t do what we do without the important people in our teams. We invest in our people and work with them to build career pathways that inspire.