Growing your experience...
Cooking some damper bread...
Gathering bush treasures...
Building the campfire...
Every Monday, children aged 6β12 come to The Bush Base to explore the bush, create freely, and belong to something wonderful. Simply drop them off and we'll take it from there.
Where learning meets nature in the heart of Waiatarua
Children thrive when they have space to follow their curiosity, move their bodies, and learn at their own pace. The Bush Base offers just that: one meaningful day a week in the bush, free from pressure and full of possibility.
It's a drop-off programme. Simply drop your child off at 9am and pick them up at 3pm. Our warm community scaffolds each child's interests and supports their holistic development in beautiful Waiatarua.
Ages 6-12 β’ Mondays 9am-3pm β’ Low 1:8 ratio
At The Bush Base, we recognise that children's brains are wired to learn through free exploration and play. When our tamariki play, they are truly engaged, and their minds are open for discovery.
We are firm believers that the natural world is our greatest teacher. We prioritise being outside, interacting with each other, nurturing plants to grow, and exploring all that the beautiful flora and fauna of the Waitakere Ranges has to offer.
We follow an emergent curriculum, which means our learning is guided by the curiosities and strengths of the children, not predetermined by adults.
Connect with nature through guided learning and play, encouraging exploration, creativity, and respect for the natural world.
Located in the Waitakere Ranges, surrounded by lush greenery, offering an ideal setting for hands-on experiences.
Nature walks, creative workshops, and activities that engage young minds organically, blending learning with exploration.
Important information for families joining The Bush Base
We believe in transparency and clear communication with all our families. Our terms and conditions outline our policies, procedures, and mutual expectations to ensure the best experience for everyone.
Please take time to review these important documents before enrolling your child.
View Terms & ConditionsExperienced educators passionate about nature-based learning
As a mum of three who has always encouraged life-learning for our family, I believe that children are a taonga and I want to help them thrive. I have over 20 years experience working with children and young people in various settings, including in the homeschooling sector, in youth work, and in early childhood education.
I recognize that our tamariki are all different and I love creating an environment where children feel warm connection and understanding above all else. I'm excited about sharing our beautiful property here with tamariki.
As a mum of two (and many more through our homeschool adventures!), I've learned that the best lessons often happen outside the classroom: in the garden, around the table, or on a muddy track in the bush.
I love seeing tamariki explore, ask questions, and discover their own ways of learning, whether that's through music, nature, or simply sharing stories together. Homeschooling has taught me to celebrate every little spark of curiosity, and here at The Bush Base I get to keep doing exactly that, alongside an amazing team and our awesome tamariki.
Everything you need to know about The Bush Base
Take the first step in your child's nature-based learning journey. We'd love to welcome your whΔnau to our community.
Enquire NowWe'd love to hear from you and answer any questions about The Bush Base