Centre Benefits
-
Lunches/Food
-
3 Rooms
-
Nursery
-
Excursions
-
School Transitions
-
Storypark
-
Large Outdoor Area
-
Extended Hours
-
ECE Hours
Meet our Centre Manager
Kia ora
My name is Kristen, and I have been teaching since 2008. I started as student kaiako right here at Lollipops Bell Block (or as it was known then, Bubbles), studying through the University of Canterbury. I have held teaching, head teacher and asistant management roles at different points in my career. Earlier this year I took the opportunity to take on the Centre Manager role at our fantastic centre in Bell Block.
As I embrace this new role, I am supported by my tamariki, Charli and Oscar, who started their own education journeys with me at Bubbles, and who are now both engaged in tertiary level study. When I’m not busy with mahi, I am involved in the various productions put on by the New Plymouth Operatic Society as part of the make-up team. No, you will not see me on stage in ‘Chicago’!
I am a big believer in ‘whānau first’. As a centre manager, I am here to support whānau as they step into the wonderful adventure of learning with their tamariki, and to welcome them into the extended Lollipops whānau. I value open and reciprocal communication and whakawhanaungatanga – with kaiako, with whānau and with tamariki.
What makes us special
About Lollipops Bell Block
At Lollipops Bell Block, we focus on nurturing strong community connections, celebrating cultural diversity, and supporting each child’s developmental journey. Our team builds lasting relationships with whānau, local kura, and community groups to help tamariki feel grounded in their place.
Our centre features bright, creative indoor environments and expansive outdoor play areas with real grass, fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and plenty of room to explore. Rain or shine, our covered outdoor spaces are ready for Taranaki weather.
Centre life is vibrant and inclusive. Children are grouped into three age-based rooms to ensure they’re supported at every stage. Learning experiences include visits from the Puke Ariki mobile library, gardening for Matariki, and termly visits from local kura teachers. Whānau picnics and cultural celebrations are highlights that bring our community together.
Why parents love our centre
I highly recommend Lollipops Bell Block to anyone looking for a quality childcare centre in New Plymouth. My daughter has been attending this centre for over six months and she loves it. The teachers ...
My daughter is 4 and she is in lollipops day care Bell Block for the past two years and I really found her school setting safe place for her. The staff manager and members all are good and updated the...
My daughter loves going to lollipops bell block. She started in the infant room and is now is in the preschool room. Her kaiako have always taken good care of her and helped foster her love for learni...
As a new parents and a newcomer in Bell Block, it was very difficult to take care of baby alone, and luckily I found Lollipop at that time. For me, Lollipop is not a place to drop my child, but a goo...
I should have taken my toddler there sooner, as there is a bigger room, bigger and varied outdoor area, and the children are more adequate to her age than in other centers. She has been thriving big ...
We're on Facebook!
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.
