‘It’s like a second home’: Why one mum says Tiaki Mokopuna changed her life

When Jemma Irvine first set out to find early childhood education for her daughter Maia, she wasn’t expecting to plan her entire career around a childcare centre.

But from the moment she stepped into Tiaki Mokopuna Childcare at Whitireia campus, she knew it was the right place.

“As soon as we arrived there, Maia wanted to get out of my arms and play. She felt safe. She felt comfortable. And so, I knew right then that this was the place for us,” says Jemma.

Tiaki Mokopuna is one of two childcare centres operated by the Porirua Whānau Centre. With a kaupapa grounded in aroha, culture, and empowerment, it provides more than just childcare, it creates a nurturing environment where tamariki thrive.

“The teachers welcomed us with open arms,” Jemma recalls. “It was just a beautiful experience. I enrolled Maia straight away and found a job on campus just so I could stay close.”

Jemma says the centre supported her daughter’s development, giving her the space to shape her confidence as a parent and professional.

“I knew I wanted a second child, but I didn’t feel ready until I knew I had the right environment for Maia to thrive in. Once I found Tiaki Mokopuna, I relaxed. I knew my baby would be loved, just like at home.”

Her second child, Ilia, began attending the centre at six months old.

“He’s never cried at drop-off, never had a problem adjusting. The staff already felt like family to him,” she says.

Jemma praises the centre’s strength-based approach to teaching: “It’s all about empowering kids, encouraging them to be independent, to take responsibility, and learn through doing.”

From washing their hands to collecting their lunchboxes, even toddlers are supported to grow their self-confidence.

The learning doesn’t stop at routines. Cultural understanding is woven into every part of the day.

“We speak Spanish at home, and I was worried about how Maia would cope,” says Jemma.

“But the centre went above and beyond, they posted Spanish phrases around the room, used them daily, and supported her bilingual journey.

Now Maia speaks three languages: Spanish, English, and te reo Māori. She even teaches her friends Spanish words!”

With over 18 cultures represented, the centre embraces diversity as a strength. Children are exposed to multiple languages, worldviews and traditions from infancy.

“My kids are growing up in a global village,” Jemma says. “They’re open-minded, curious and confident. They see differences as normal.”

For whānau who may be on the fence about what kind of early childhood education the Porirua Whānau Centre offers, Jemma’s advice is simple.

“Just visit the centre and you’ll feel it. This place changed our lives. It’s the best childcare I’ve ever come across.”

Contact the Porirua Whānau Centre on (04) 237 7749 or visit poriruawhanau.org.nz to learn more about enrolling your tamariki at Tiaki Mokopuna or our Bedford Street childcare centre.