Our Story
Nest & Nurture Early Learning grew from a simple belief held closely by its owners, Esther and Andy Wrenn: that every child deserves a place where they feel at home – a space filled with warmth, belonging, and genuine care. As a family living locally with their three children, the Wrenns are deeply rooted in the community they serve. Their own tamariki attend the centre, shaping a personal, hands‑on approach that reflects what they value most as parents.
Nest & Nurture is proudly family owned and operated – created not from a corporate model, but from lived experience, educational expertise, and a genuine desire to offer something more personal. Esther’s journey through the education sector spans over 20 years, including primary teaching, Deputy Principal leadership, and postgraduate study in Educational Psychology. Across these roles, she saw a growing need for high‑quality, home‑like early learning environments where tamariki are nurtured to become confident, curious learners and, ultimately, the future leaders of their communities. Her deep understanding of child development and her commitment to responsive, relationship‑based teaching form the heart of Nest & Nurture.
Andy brings strong business and financial expertise through his work in the marine insurance sector, where he leads a nationwide team. His operational insight, alongside being the centre’s resident “chief maintenance man”, complements Esther’s educational leadership, creating a stable, well‑managed foundation for the centre.
Together, they have shaped Nest & Nurture into a home away from home: a place where children feel safe, cherished, and inspired to explore; where whānau feel welcomed and supported; and where meaningful relationships sit at the centre of every learning journey. As a family who entrusts their own children to the same environment, Esther and Andy are deeply committed to ensuring Nest & Nurture remains warm, personal, and truly connected to the community it serves.
Our Philosophy
At Nest & Nurture, we believe children thrive when they feel completely at home. Our centre is a warm, calm place where little ones can be themselves, feel safe, and grow with confidence.
Our kaiako gently guide each child, encouraging them to explore, take part, and build strong relationships in their own time. With our vast outdoor spaces, we nurture a deep love for nature and the joy that comes from learning outside. Play‑based, child‑led learning is at the heart of what we do, giving children the freedom to follow their interests and discover at their own pace.
In our homelike environment, with caring teachers who truly know each child, we foster curiosity, kindness, and independence, inspiring our tamariki to grow into the future leaders of our community.
Our Vision
At the centre of Nest & Nurture’s vision is a commitment to creating a home‑away‑from‑home. A place where children feel safe, cherished, and inspired to explore. Nest & Nurture is built on trust and connection, where meaningful relationships sit at the centre of every learning journey.
Nest & Nurture is more than an early learning centre – it is an extension of home, shaped by experience, guided by expertise, and grounded in relationship.