Centre Benefits
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Lunches/Food
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Rooms
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Nursery
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Excursions
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School Transitions
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Storypark
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Large Outdoor Area
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ECE Hours
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Extended Hours
Meet our Centre Manager

Kia ora
My name is Sophie! I am the Centre Manager for Active Explorers Invercargill. I am a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood teacher, with 11 years' experience. I am passionate about our tamariki and advocating for them whilst always having their best interest at heart.
I live on a wee farmlet with my partner Zach and our two dogs Pluto and Luna. I love being around friends and family - going on new and exciting adventures.
What makes us special
About Active Explorers Invercargill
At Active Explorers Invercargill, we’re all about creating a respectful, child-led learning environment. Our focus is on fostering independence and curiosity, with each child encouraged to follow their own learning journey. We believe in free movement, relationship-based care, and empowering tamariki to lead their learning through exploration.
Our modern, purpose-built centre is designed to support every child’s growth. With spacious outdoor areas and rooms tailored to different age groups, we provide an environment that’s just right for their development. Whether rain or shine, our children are free to explore thanks to our large deck areas with heaters.
Each day at Active Explorers is filled with fun, engaging activities that are designed to support your child’s individual development. From the Tui Room for the youngest explorers to the Pukeko Room for our preschoolers, we make sure every child has the opportunities they need to grow and thrive.

Nui Explorers
Come join the adventure!
WHEN: This free programme runs weekly on a Wednesday from 8:45am – 12:30pm, during term times for our eldest learners.
PURPOSE: This is a new and exciting opportunity for your tamaiti (child) at Active Explorers Invercargill with the purpose being ‘to explore nature in our local hapori (community) where they can develop a deeper connection with Papatūānuku (the land) and support their overall wellbeing’.
PHILOSOPHY: The Nui Explorers underlying philosophy is ‘to offer tamariki physical exercise and exploration through unstructured play in nature where they can engage in risk-taking, build their confidence and resilience while challenging their creativity and problem solving skills’. This may include bug hunting, tree climbing, exploring flora and fauna, hut building, basic bushcraft skills and embracing all the seasonal elements!


Why parents love our centre
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Want a sneak peek at our centre?
Click the button below to visit our facebook page. You'll be able to get a glimpse of all the fun and find out more about the creative learning experiences in our centre.
