Careers
Join the Team
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.
Why work for SKA?
Being part of our SKA means you would be part of a community focussed organisation and actively involved in contributing to the well-being and development of our local tamariki. You will be supporting equitable access to quality education, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
We recognise the importance of growth through professional learning opportunities being supported on a regular basis. For our Kaiako this is further supported by way of the Kindergarten Teachers Collective Agreement, which can be found here.
With 24 locations throughout Southland we have many internal opportunities for change our support our staff to grow and evolve.
Our operational roles play a crucial part in delivering an excellent ECE service to our community and we have a strong focus on ensuring our staff are supported to carry these roles the best we can.
We welcome your enquiry to become part of our team and help us support our Southland Community.
Job Vacancies
We have the following vacancies available.
Are you an enthusiastic, passionate, and relationship-focused kaiako looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of tamariki and their whānau?
Kindergartens South is seeking a dedicated permanent full-time Kaiako to join our teaching team at Waverley Kindergarten.
At Waverley Kindergarten, we are proud of our welcoming and inclusive learning environment where children are encouraged to explore, discover, and develop a lifelong love of learning. We value strong partnerships with whānau and our local community and are committed to providing high-quality, play-based learning that reflects the aspirations of Te Whāriki.
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a recognised Early Childhood teaching qualification.
- Holds a current first aid certificate
- Holds a current New Zealand Teaching Council practising certificate.
- Demonstrates a sound understanding of Te Whāriki and contemporary early childhood practice.
- Has excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Works with a collaborative approach and a willingness to contribute positively to a supportive teaching team.
- Has a commitment to ongoing professional learning and reflective practice.
Why Join Kindergartens South?
At Kindergartens South, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to supporting our kaiako to flourish professionally while making a lasting difference for tamariki and their whānau.
What we offer:
- A supportive and collaborative teaching environment.
- Ongoing professional learning and development.
- Well-resourced kindergartens with strong community connections.
- Opportunities to grow your practice within a respected kindergarten association.
- Employment in accordance with the Kindergarten Teachers, Head Teachers and Senior Teachers’ Collective Agreement (KTCA).
If you are committed to providing high-quality early childhood education and would like to become part of a professional and passionate team, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
For further information or to apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter to jobs@ska.co.nz
Applications close: Friday 31st July 2026
If you are overseas, please do not apply as we are unable to support visas and will not respond.
- Invercargill
- Northern Southland
- Gore
- Fiordland
We have many opportunities for relievers! With our kindergartens moving to full year over 2026 (no term breaks) it means we have plenty of work available around the region to help cover various leave.
This is a role that might suit you to have flexibility to pick the shifts that work for you, rather than joining us on a permanent basis. Its also a great way to move into the amazing world of Kindergarten teaching and work along our experienced kaiako.
If you’re keen to apply, you need:
- Hold a Bachelors Degree in ECE (or equivalent NZ recognised qualification)
- Registered with NZ Teaching Council
- Current First Aid Certificate.
Pop through your CV and cover letter to apply at jobs@ska.co.nz.
If you are overseas, please do not apply as we are unable to support visas.
Relievers
We have opportunities for relievers too – it might suit you to have flexibility to pick the shifts that work for you, rather than joining us on a permanent basis.
We are always on the lookout for:
- Qualified Relievers
- Kindergarten Support – Untrained
If you’re interested, send your CV and cover letter to hr@ska.co.nz
Want to know more? Phone us on (03) 2140 237 or complete the contact form below.