Childcare Costs in New Zealand: A Complete Guide for UK Families Moving Abroad

Thinking of moving to New Zealand with children? Our guide covers everything you need to know about childcare costs in New Zealand.

New Zealand is a stunning country with a welcoming culture and friendly people. A great place for new beginnings, exciting adventures, and to raise a family.

You’ll want to give your family, and particularly the youngest members, the best possible start to their new life in New Zealand. So, in this guide to childcare costs in New Zealand (as well as childcare in general) we’ll walk you through your various options, give you an idea of the costs involved, and explain the support available to help with these.

Bear in mind though – finding a place in NZ’s busy childcare system can be tough, particularly in larger towns and cities. So, it’s important to plan early, particularly if you want your children settled into their new environment as soon as possible after you arrive. They’ll need this time in Early Childhood Education (ECE) to make new friends and prepare for the NZ school system.

1. Childcare in New Zealand vs the UK: Key Differences for Families

But first, a brief comparison between what you’re used to here in the UK, and what you’ll encounter in NZ.

In the UK, funded nursery or preschool starts at 3 or 4 years of age. At 4 or 5, children start formal schooling – Reception, year 1 etc. Childcare is available for children under 3, but it’s generally arranged privately and paid for.

In contrast, New Zealand’s Early Childhood Education program is available from birth through to 5 years, the official school starting age.

ECE attendance in NZ is recommended but not compulsory. But, as Kiwi children have access to up to 20 hours of government-funded childcare, most do spend at least a year or two in ECE before starting primary school.

Currently, NZ has 2 primary school entry systems. The old system, continuous entry, allows children to start on their 5^th birthday; however, less than a third of schools still use it.

The now widely adopted cohort system, officially ratified in 2020, allows them to start in cohort groups after they turn 5. There is one cohort start date at the beginning of each term, and one mid-term. Schools have the option of using either system, but not both.

If you’re still deciding between destinations, our guide to childcare costs in Australia for UK families offers a useful comparison to New Zealand’s system.

Te Whāriki & New Zealand’s Early Childhood Education System

All early education in NZ follows Te Whāriki, a holistic development and early learning system with a bicultural framework.

Available in both English and Te Reo Māori, Te Whāriki uses a play-based approach to early learning. It has 4 core principles that govern ‘how’ learning happens, and ‘what’ kind of environment is created:

1. Empowerment (Whakamana)
2. Holistic Development (Kotahitanga)
3. Family and Community (Whānau Tangata)
4. Relationships (Ngā Hononga)

These are supported by 5 key learning areas:

1. Well-being (Mana Atua)
2. Belonging (Mana Whenua)
3. Contribution (Mana Tangata)
4. Communication (Mana Reo)
5. Exploration (Mana Aotūroa)

2. Types of Childcare in New Zealand and How They Affect Costs

New Zealand offers a wide range of childcare options to suit different family needs, schedules, and budgets — from structured daycare centres and kindergartens to home-based educators, playgroups, and nannies. Each type of care varies not only in approach and setting but also in cost, government funding eligibility, and flexibility. Understanding the differences between these options is essential when planning your childcare arrangements and estimating your overall expenses.

Below, we break down the main types of early childhood education (ECE) and school-aged care available across the country, and how each one may impact your childcare costs.

Childcare Centres/Daycares (Education and Care Services)

These are the equivalent of UK nurseries and typically operate from 7.30am to 5.30 or 6.00pm. They are part of the government’s Education and Care Services, and are run by qualified early childhood (EC) teachers.

The centres cater for children from 6 weeks of age to school age, and offer part and full-day care, similar to our nurseries here. They’re particularly popular with working parents (and thus in high demand).

Childcare Centres provide structured routines, healthy meals, and keep parents updated through regular progress reports.

Kindergartens

Kindergartens are available for children aged between 2 and 5 years. Once again, they offer the benefit of qualified EC teachers, and either full or part-day (morning or afternoon) sessions.

In New Zealand, kindergartens are affiliated with independent regional, not-for-profit kindergarten associations. The associations oversee and provide support and resources (teachers, funding, property, compliance) for kindergartens in their region. They also ensure each centre reflects the needs and values of its local community.

Did you know: The first kindergarten association started in the late 1800’s, driven by NZ’s unique often isolated communities, and strong philanthropic and community-driven culture.

Home-Based Education and Care Services

Even though NZ children can officially enter ECE from birth, very few formal childcare facilities are actually set up to cater for babies under 6 weeks of age. So, if you have a very young baby, you’ll probably need to investigate home-based (or parent-led) educator care.

These services offer supervised registered educator care for up to 4 young children (under 5 years) at a time in the educator’s own home. The homes must be certified childcare suitable premises.

Home-based ECE services still deliver Te Whāriki, but in a home setting. They also offer flexibility and convenience. As the carers are working from their own homes, they can often provide care outside standard hours. For parents with non-standard working hours, this can be an ideal childcare solution.

Play Centres

Play centres are parent-led co-operative ECE centres. They’re ideal if one parent or other family members can participate in their children’s early learning. Children from birth to school age can attend.

These centres are usually not as pricey as some of the other childcare options so if you’re on a budget, they’re a good option. They are also government-funded, and again, follow Te Whāriki with child-initiated play.

Playgroups

Playgroups are a more informal childcare option again. They’re often community-based, relaxed and informal, and get parents and caregivers involved in their children’s early education. Plus, they’re an ideal opportunity to socialise and connect with other community parents!

These groups are also one of the cheapest childcare options, and may even be free in some cases. They’re not, however, considered an official ECE service.

Nannies and Au Pairs

Probably the most flexible childcare option if you have very specific requirements or a difficult schedule.

Nannies are professional childcare workers. They have formal childcare qualifications and are paid an hourly wage.

Au pairs are generally young international tourists who provide childcare and some light household duties in return for a small allowance, room, and board. Note – always check visa and employment status if considering an au pair.

Before and After School Care (OSCAR)

Once your child starts school, Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) programmes are available for supervised care before and after school, and during school holidays. Hours are usually 7.00am–9.00am and 3.00pm–6.00pm. The programmes often provide supervised activities and snacks.

Kōhanga Reo, Punanga Reo, Aoga, and Other Language- and Culture-Focused Programmes

Outside the mainstream childcare options, NZ also offers programmes that allow children, particularly from non-European backgrounds, to learn traditional regional languages, customs, and cultures. These programmes – Kōhanga Reo (Māori), Punanga Reo (Cook Islands Māori), and Aoga (Samoan) – are rooted in the respective cultural values.

3. Childcare Costs in New Zealand

Childcare costs in New Zealand can vary considerably depending on the type of care you choose, how many hours you need, and where in the country you’re based. Urban areas like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch typically have higher daily rates, while costs in regional centres tend to be more affordable. It’s also worth remembering that many childcare providers are eligible for government subsidies, such as the 20 Hours ECE scheme and the Childcare Subsidy, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Below is a breakdown of average childcare costs across the main types of early learning and care services in New Zealand, along with what to expect in terms of additional fees and optional charges.

Childcare Centres

Expect to pay $60–$80 per day for full-time care (the average is around $60).

• Major Cities: $80–$120+ per day is common, and may even be as high as $130-$150 in some areas.
• Regional Areas: $50–$70 per day.

The good news is that most centres are part of the 20 Hours ECE subsidy scheme and are also eligible for various other subsidies.

Significantly, as teacher-led, centre-based services, they typically receive higher levels of funding depending on the % of qualified teachers they employ. As the funding amount often covers most of their hourly rate, it will considerably reduce your fees for the first 20 hours of care, up to 6 hours/day.

Kindergartens

For children aged 3-5 years, a full 6-hour day ranges from $24–$90 ($4–$15 an hour).

However, most kindergartens are also part of the 20 Hours ECE subsidy scheme so can provide up to 20 hours subsidised care per week for children this age. As they’re also teacher-led, centre-based, and qualify for other subsidies, they often receive enough funding to cover their hourly costs too. That means the first 20 hours of care are free.

Home-Based Education and Care

The average cost for home-based care is $8–$15 an hour. Be aware though that, although home-based ECE is eligible for the 20 Hours ECE and other subsidies, it isn’t centre-based so doesn’t receive the same level of funding. Therefore, most service providers need to charge a “top-up” fee to cover the difference between their hourly rate and the subsidies.

Play Centres

Play Centres are registered ECE providers so are eligible for some level of funding through schemes like 20 Hours ECE, and the Childcare Subsidy. They may however charge either a small session fee to cover incidentals or venue hire, or a term fee plus voluntary contributions.

Nevertheless, they’re generally very affordable because parents participate in the care.

Playgroups

Playgroups usually are free or have a very low session cost. Again, this is because they rely on parent and family involvement. However, they aren’t recognised ECE services.

Although some may be certified to receive some government funding and support, many aren’t. If you choose playgroup childcare, keep in mind that you may not be eligible for many childcare subsidies.

Nannies and Au Pairs

Nannies in NZ typically earn anything from the minimum wage ($23.50 as of April 1, 2025) to $50 an hour, depending on whether they live out or are a full-time live-in nanny, their experience, and the duties expected of them.

Expect to pay an au pair $180–$350 a week as an allowance in addition to providing a private bedroom and all meals. A ‘standard’ au pair can earn between $200-$330 a week net. An experienced one can earn as much as $310-$450 net a week.

Before & After School Care (OSCAR)

The following are average ranges. Some providers and services may fall slightly outside these ranges.

• Before School: $10–$25 per session.
• After School: $20–$40 per session.
• Holiday Programmes: $40–$80 per day (some excursion programmes may charge $100+ for the activity)

The OSCAR Subsidy is available to eligible families to help offset the costs of this type of childcare.

Additional Expenses

Even with subsidies, you’ll usually need to factor a few additional expenses into your budget as well, such as:

• Enrolment fees: Common for centres, usually a one-time fee.
• Bond/deposit: Some centres may require a bond, often equivalent to one or two weeks’ fees (refundable).
• Holding/absentee fees: Fees may apply even if your child is absent.
• Late pick-up fees: $1–$2 per minute for late pickups outside of regular hours.
• For nannies/au pairs, possible extra costs for petrol, activities, or specific food requests.

Always ask for a full fee schedule upfront so you know exactly what is and isn’t included in the daily or weekly fees.

Optional Charges

ECE and OSCAR providers can also ask you to pay “optional charges” for various other items and services over and above the basic, such as top up fees, nappies, food, outings and so on. These add-ons must be clearly itemised on your invoice, and are voluntary.

If you choose not to pay them, the provider cannot refuse your child the care you’re paying for. They can however withhold any add-ons you don’t pay for so your child may need to take their own food and drinks, or might not be able to go on excursions etc.

Some examples include:

• Excursions/incursions: Costs for special events or visitors.
• Materials/uniforms: For some services, this may include craft supplies, hats, or optional uniforms.
• Food and nappies: Some centres include these; others require parents to provide them.
• Top up fees: Charges that cover the difference between government subsidy rates and the provider’s usual fees.

Some fees might seem high but bear in mind that most families, including new arrivals, are eligible for some level of government assistance.

4.    Government Support and Subsidies for Childcare

When you arrive in NZ, and complete the necessary formalities, you’ll likely gain access to several types of government support for ECE and out-of-school care. Most can be accessed concurrently if you’re eligible. Here’s a handy tool for checking what you might be eligible for.

NZ’s primary childcare subsidy schemes are the 20 Hours ECE scheme, the Childcare Subsidy, and OSCAR Subsidy.

General Support Eligibility:

To receive most childcare subsidies or family tax credits in NZ, you must:

• Be the principal caregiver of a dependent child.
• Normally live in New Zealand with intent to stay, and be a NZ citizen, permanent resident, or tax resident.
• Your child must be attending a recognised ECE (pre-primary) or OSCAR (primary) programme for at least 3 hours a week.

Specific age requirements apply to each scheme (e.g., 5 years & under for ECE subsidies, 6–13 years for OSCAR).

20 Hours Early Childhood Education (ECE) – NZ Ministry of Education

This is the main government childcare subsidy in NZ. It provides up to 20 hours a week of free ECE for children aged 3-5 who attend a participating licensed ECE service. Eligibility starts as soon as they turn 3 and ends the day before their 6th birthday, or their last day at an ECE service prior to starting school, whichever is first.

Key Features:

• Non-Income tested: Available to all eligible children, regardless of parents’ income or employment status.
• Paid directly to provider: The subsidy is paid directly to your ECE service. You simply confirm the hours you want covered when enrolling your child i.e. 9am-3pm.
• Max 6 hours/day: The subsidy covers a maximum of 6 hours/day, up to 20 hours/week in total across all ECE providers (if you’re using more than one).
• Free: Providers can’t charge you for your nominated 20 hours as they are meant to be free.

How to Apply:

When you enrol your child at an eligible ECE provider, you’ll complete an attestation form specifying the hours you want covered. The provider handles the rest.

The amount they receive depends on:

• The type of service it is – Kindergarten, Home-based etc
• What percentage of their teachers are certified (the more they have, the more they get)
• The age of the child the subsidy is for

NZ Childcare and OSCAR Subsidies (Work and Income – Ministry of Social Development)

These are income-tested subsidies for low- to middle-income families.

• Childcare Subsidy: Helps with pre-school (ECE) costs for children under 5 (or under 6 if waiting for cohort entry, or if a Child Disability Allowance applies). Can cover up to 50 hours/week, with a baseline of up to 9 hours/week if the primary caregiver is not working, studying, or training.
• OSCAR subsidy: For school-aged children (6-13, or under 18 with Child Disability Allowance). Covers up to 20 hours/week for before and after school care during term time, and up to 50 hours/week during school holidays.

Key Features:

• Income tested: Eligibility and the number of hours depend on your family’s income, number of children, and often your (or your partner’s) participation in qualifying activities (work, study, training, seriously ill, caring for a child in hospital or with a Child Disability Allowance).
• Paid directly to provider: These subsidies are paid to your ECE or OSCAR provider. They deduct the subsidy from your fees.
• Can’t overlap with 20 Hours ECE: You cannot claim these subsidies for the same hours you’re claiming 20 Hours ECE. However, they can be used for different hours or to cover “top-up” fees on 20 Hours ECE in home-based care.
• Availability of another caregiver: Having another caregiver available during the hours you need the subsidy may limit your eligibility. For the Childcare Subsidy, it can restrict you to a maximum of 9 hours/week, or remove your eligibility altogether, even if you are working or studying. And limit or remove eligibility for any hours of OSCAR Subsidy.
• Calculated and paid per child: Although applications are per household, the subsidies are calculated and paid per eligible child.

How to Apply:

Applications are typically processed through Work and Income‘s online services (SmartStart or myMSD). You’ll need income, IRD (tax) numbers, family details, and childcare provider information. At the same time, you specify which particular hours (and school holiday days for OSCAR) you want covered e.g., 9am–3pm Childcare / 3pm–6pm OSCAR.

You can check your eligibility and estimated amounts here.

NZ Family Boost Payment (Inland Revenue)

The Family Boost payment is a tax credit rather than a direct payment. It isn’t specifically a childcare subsidy but can help with out-of-pocket childcare costs.

Key Features:

• Paid to you: The payment is paid directly into your bank account.
• Covers fees not covered by subsidies: It’s designed to help with fees incurred after other subsidies (20 Hours ECE, Childcare Subsidy etc) have been applied. This can include optional charges, excursion fees, and top-up fees.
• Up to 40% refund: Eligible families can claim up to 40% of eligible childcare costs, up to a maximum of $120 a week. This is paid quarterly as a lump sum.
• Income thresholds (July 2025): Your gross annual household income must be less than $229,100 to receive some portion of this payment.

How to Apply:

Apply through your myIR account with IRD. You’ll need details of your ECE provider and proof of ECE invoice payments.

Working for Families Tax Credits (Inland Revenue)

These are a package of income-tested tax credits. If you are eligible, they can indirectly help offset some of your childcare costs.

Relevant Payments Include:

• Family Tax Credit (FTC): An income-tested payment per child.
• Best Start: For newborns, available for the first three years (first year not income-tested; subsequent years are).
• In-Work Tax Credit: For families meeting specific work hour requirements.

How to Apply:

Applications are typically done through your myIR account. Eligibility depends on your family income, number of children, and work status.

Payments can be received weekly, fortnightly, or at the end of the tax year as a lump sum.

Immunisation Requirements for Childcare

New Zealand doesn’t have a strict “No Jab No Pay” policy but most childcare services require up-to-date immunisation records as part of the enrolment process. That way, if there is an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease, unimmunised children can be asked to stay home.

5. How to Choose Childcare in New Zealand That Fits Your Budget and Needs

These early years are a significant part of your children’s development. When they’re also moving halfway around the world, it’s doubly important for them to integrate well into their new environment. Finding the right childcare will help them assimilate into the NZ school system and adapt to their new, exciting life in NZ.

Where to Start

Here are some excellent sites and tools to help you get started on your New Zealand ECE search:

Government Websites

Ministry of Education – Early Learning

Work and Income – Childcare Subsidy

Inland Revenue (IRD) – Working for Families

Education Review Office (ERO) Reports: An Independent government agency that reviews and publicly reports on education and care in all NZ schools and ECE.

Non-Government Websites

• My ECE: A great independent resource for parents with comprehensive information about different types of ECE services, comparisons, and reviews. Also provides guidance on regulations and licensing.
• Care for Kids: Excellent search directory and comparison tool for childcare services across NZ.
• Plunket: A non-profit organisation offering free health and development services for children under 5 and support for their families.
• Tiny Nation: Although a home-based childcare provider agency, their “Fees and Subsidies” page is a great way to understand how 20 Hours ECE, Childcare Subsidies, and Family Boost apply specifically to home-based care.
• Local Council Websites: Check your local council website for information on community playgroups and any council-operated services.

Alternatively, there is good old-fashioned word-of-mouth, where you can ask other parents in your new community for recommendations.

6. Checklist: How to Choose the Right Childcare Provider in New Zealand:

When comparing your options, consider (and check) things like:

• Licensing and Accreditation: Ensure the service is licensed or certified by the Ministry of Education.
• Registered for 20 Hours ECE Scheme: ECE and OSCAR providers must register to offer, and receive this subsidy.
• Educator Qualifications: Inquire about the qualifications and experience of the staff.
• Staff-to-Child Ratios: Check that the ratios meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
• Curriculum (Te Whāriki): Understand how the service implements the Te Whāriki curriculum and how it aligns with your values.
• Facilities and Environment: Is the facility safe, clean, welcoming, and stimulating for children?
• Operating Hours and Location: Do these fit with your family’s routine and work commitments? Remember that late pick-up fees can add up.
• Communication: How does the service communicate with parents about their child’s progress and daily activities?
• Food and Nutrition: What are the food policies? Are meals provided as part of the fee structure, are they extras, or do you need to provide them?
• Emergency Procedures: Are there clear safety and emergency plans in place?

If you can, visit your short-listed childcare centres in person. If you’re still in the UK, see if any of them offer virtual tours or online information sessions. Ask plenty of questions to get a feel for the environment and atmosphere. Reputable centres will be happy to provide all the information you need.

Get Onto Waiting Lists Early:

Childcare places often have long waiting lists, especially in popular residential areas. If you want your children settled as soon as possible after arriving in the country, research your options, and get them on waiting lists well before your move.

7.    Planning Childcare Before Moving to New Zealand

Start your research early. Shortlist childcare services, and sign up for waiting lists as soon as you know where you’ll be living. This increases your chances of receiving a placement with the carer or service of your choice.

You should get necessary documents sorted, as well as organise essential paperwork such as birth certificates, vaccination records, and visas ahead of time.

Consider relocation assistance: Use a relocation service like PSS to coordinate your move with important timelines such as school terms, holidays, or family events.

Availability and costs can vary greatly by location, so you may want to explore the best places to live in New Zealand for families before joining waiting lists.

So, How Much Does Childcare Cost in New Zealand?

 

Typical Weekly Childcare Costs in New Zealand (Before Subsidies)

 

Childcare costs in New Zealand can vary significantly based on the type of care you choose, the number of hours required, and where in the country you live. Urban areas such as Auckland and Wellington tend to have higher fees, particularly for full-day childcare centres, where daily rates can reach $120 or more. By contrast, in smaller towns or regional areas, prices may sit closer to $60 per day.

The good news is that most families, including new arrivals from the UK, are eligible for some form of government assistance. For example, the 20 Hours ECE scheme can reduce or eliminate costs for children aged 3–5, and income-based subsidies like the Childcare Subsidy or OSCAR Subsidy can significantly lower weekly out-of-pocket expenses. By understanding what to expect and planning ahead, you can ensure your childcare arrangements suit both your family’s lifestyle and your budget.

Getting Ready for Your Family’s New Start in New Zealand

Moving to New Zealand is an exciting journey. If you’ll need childcare services when you arrive, knowing your options, what to budget for, what government support is available, and how to access it will make planning much easier.

Start your research early. Use handy tools like the Ministry of Education’s Early Learning site, My ECE, and Work and Income’s Childcare Subsidy pages to help you make the right choices and access available support. These resources are there to help you secure the right childcare for your family and ensure you know the cost of childcare in New Zealand.

For broader relocation advice on visas, housing, schools, and shipping, see our complete guide to moving to New Zealand from the UK.

Talk to us about your move to Aotearoa. We can assist with the relocation process and guide you safely through customs and settlement.