Enrolling our toddler to Goodstart in New Gisborne has been the best decision. The centre and facilities are amazing- there is a HUGE open area for play with LOTS of things to do (sandpit, bikes, blocks, trees, water play, bridges, slides). The activities extend indoors where there’s art, toys, books, quiet corners… the kids are encouraged to get messy and give it a go. It has allowed our kid to flourish and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. The staff are the absolute GOAT. Respectful, enthusiastic, kind, and experts at keeping kids happy. We had a long transition time with our kid and they facilitated it with grace and understanding. Would recommend. (Oh and the food looks so tasty!)

Goodstart New Gisborne have been so supportive and receptive to anything we've asked them to help us in supporting our sons. Both of my boys love going to daycare and I never worry about them. We have experienced excellent communication and are very happy there.

Our two girls have attended Goodstart since we arrived in the area in 2020. In light of recent news about childcare centres, we as a family had a serious talk about safety, and raised the bar on what's acceptable for our children when they're away from us in any capacity. As a mum of three, I'm often asked for advice from friends with young kids about how to choose the right centre, and I provide this checklist based on our overwhelmingly positive ongoing experience at Goodstart: Does the centre have child safety - emotional, physical and psychological - front of mind in every area of their day-to-day operations? Is there two-way visibility in all children's toilets/nappy changing areas? Do they have double security at reception with door codes and electronic sign ins? Even close family members must be pre-authorised by parents, and provide ID to staff. Is there a line-of-sight strategy plan in the nursery ie. a map used to ensure every bub is within eyesight and near-reach of an educator at all times? Are breaks covered appropriately so the staff to child ratio remains consistent? Goodstart is militant about this. Staff must have first aid training by law, but is there one educator in the room who appears capable of handling ANY emergency? That person who stands out with 'head nurse' energy, someone you know you can trust with your child's life? Allergies, seizures and falls can happen, and if you ever get that call, you want it to be from someone who knows exactly how to handle it. Does it appear to be a positive workplace environment where all staff are treated with respect and supported on their own pathways? Are the educators warm, interested and delighted by kids being kids? Sarah heard and empathised with recent concerns from the community, and has kept parents up to date with reassurance about internal policies and frameworks, including a thoughtful new policy about electronic devices in the centre. She takes her responsibility seriously. A welcoming atmosphere, positive attitudes to day-to-day problem solving, thoughtful and nurturing transition plans for kids moving into new rooms, nutritious and interesting food, safe and clean play areas, adventurous outdoor spaces, restful nap zones, commitment to child development, engaging activities and toys, and ongoing communication with parents are all essential 'musts' for any centre, and the bare minimum we should expect. Goodstart New Gisborne goes above and beyond on all these fronts. Extra cuteness value is added in the form of dress up days, theme weeks, birthday cakes, hand-made presents for parents, professional photo days, and end of year celebrations. Additionally, the staff are all wonderfully kind and friendly people, always greeting us with a smile and words of encouragement for a happy day ahead for everyone. We feel good about using Goodstart, and we're grateful it has always been an incredibly safe space that we've never second guessed. Sarah is setting an extremely high standard for childcare, and our busy working family owes a huge thanks to her fabulous, committed team.

My daughter has been attending Goodstart for over 2 years and my son for 1 year, they both absolutely love it! From the Director Sarah to all the educators, everyone is so lovely, friendly and warm. Everyone adores and cares about the kids growth and wellbeing, anytime we have needed any assistance they have been more than accommodating. If your thinking of placing your children in their care you will not be disappointed, Highly recommend this centre!

Our son loves it at Goodstart, especially the beautiful outdoor space! The team are amazing and supportive of all of us. I love how they really encourage learning and play by focussing on kids interests. They have worked so hard with us to support individual needs in a group setting.

Our daughter has been at Goodstart New Gisborne since March 2024 and they’ve been fantastic. Educators and admin staff are amazing with both the kids and parents. We particularly love all the fun activities they do both inside and outside (huge outdoor play areas) and our picky eater at home loves the nutritious food each day. Thank you all for the hard work you do and for taking such great care of our little ones.

We can’t rate Goodstart New Gisborne higher. They have supported our daughters growth from new born through to childhood, have helped her overcome obstacles and form life long relationships. Not only do they care for children but they go out of their way to care for families as well, always approachable and accommodating in every single way. As a family that lives far away from support we couldn’t have done it without the Goodstart New Gisborne family.

Goodstart new Gisborne Are amazing. Wonderful caring place. Our son loves all teachers and specially loves and trusts Kylie. The updates and photos. We receive throughout the week are amazing and it's good seeing what our son and his class are up too.

Sarah and the team at Goodstart New Gisborne are incredible. We were new to the centre in 2024 and all of the staff made us feel so welcome. They have looked after our girls as if they were their own and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend this centre to anyone. Thank you Sarah and team.

Our children have been attending Goodstart in Gisborne for over a year and it has been nothing short of amazing. The service is very well run and organised. Their communication is fantastic and they always take the time to say hello and chat. I highly recommend the service to families in the area.