We deliver excellence in Early Childhood Education.
We deliver excellence in Early Childhood Education.
About
At Southland Kindergartens Association, tamariki and their whānau are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to forming supportive and respectful relationships with each family, recognising the unique strengths and needs of every child. Our approach is centred around creating a warm and inclusive environment where tamariki feel safe, valued, and supported to learn at their own pace.
We believe in the power of play and the joy of exploring the natural world. Our kindergartens are vibrant spaces filled with opportunities for discovery, creativity, and hands-on learning. Whether it’s digging in the garden, climbing trees, or observing the changing seasons, our tamariki thrive in environments that encourage curiosity and a connection to nature.
Southland Kindergartens Association is dedicated to the philosophy that all tamariki deserve access to quality early childhood education. We’re passionate about providing learning opportunities that create a love of learning and support each child’s development.
In our kindergartens, we celebrate diversity and nurture a sense of community. We believe that by working together, we can create a positive and inclusive atmosphere where each of our tamariki has the opportunity to thrive.
Tamariki and whānau are at the heart of every kindergarten. We focus on the formation of supportive and respectful relationships with each family. We love playing in nature. Our environments are fun places where we explore, discover and learn together.
Team Members
General Manager
Operations Manager
Finance Manager
HR & Culture Manager
Lead Senior Teacher
Property Manager
Board Members
Kia Ora! My name is Louise King. I am the mother of 4 beautiful children, a passionate Occupational Therapist working in the field of Paediatrics and a Marriage Celebrant here in Southland. I am the current Board Chair for SKA. Kindergartens provide such a unique learning opportunity and environment for our mokopuna and together we are on the waka to continue to bring the best ECE learning experience to our communities. Being a Glengarry ‘Kindy Kid’ myself (many moons ago) and now being able to give back at a strategic governance level to this sector is really something special.
Kia ora!
I am an experienced business leader and director and have a deep passion for our Murihiku Region. I am a volunteer director for SKA, Southland Youth Futures, and Surfing for Farmers. All things in service of our youth and mental well-being.
My working career began in engineering and progressed into production and overall operations of business. My current day job is Operations Manager for FI Innovations Ltd.
I am a proud father of five with my beautiful wife, Emma. We enjoy a lifestyle revolving around our beachside home. Surfing, Kitesurfing, diving and all the kids sports on top.
Tēnā koutou katoa
Ko Motu Pōhue te Maunga
Ko Te Ara ā Kiwa te Moana
Ko Uruao te Waka
Ko Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe, Kāi Tahu te Iwi
Nō Murihiku āhau
I am a proud Bluffie currently employed by the Invercargill City Council in the Parks & Recreation team. I have a background in the Education, IT, and Community sectors. I have a passion for Te Ao Māori and Sport and recreation. I am humbled to have been co-opted onto the Southland Free Kindergartens Association Board and I endeavour to do whatever it takes to increase opportunities for all tamariki to learn and grow.
Tihei Mauri Ora
I live near Riverton on a sheep and beef farm with my wife and three kids. On top of farming and running after the kids, I also do some business consultancy. My background is in finance, business strategy and project management.
I volunteered for the board because I fondly remember my memories as a kindergarten kid and want to be able to support the association so that other tamariki get to have that same experience.
Ko Takitimu te waka
Ko Waitaki to awa
Ko Aoraki to mauka
Ko Arowhenua to marae
Ko Kai Tahu raua ko Nga Puhi nga iwi
Ko Micaela Bekhuis taku ingoa
I am Micaela Bekhuis, Invercargill born and bred and a previous Newfield kindy kid! I am a wife and mum to two children. I am passionate about kindergarten education, and I am proud to be able to support our organisation moving forward.
Whanau member of Longbush Kindergarten and has been a member of the Kindergarten board for over 5 years, 3 as board chair.