Held outdoors in Matawhero, behind the historic Matawhero Church — one of Gisborne's oldest standing buildings and a gathering place for the local community for over 150 years — our Forest Playgroup offers a gentle introduction to Steiner-inspired early childhood for our youngest tamariki and their whānau. Here, nature is the teacher — children explore bark, leaves, mud, and birdsong at their own pace, guided by simple rhythms of song, story, and unhurried outdoor play.

Forest Playgroup welcomes tamariki ages 0 -6 —come as you are, dress appropriately for the weather, and join us under the trees.

This is a space for parents and caregivers to stay and connect too — building community with other whānau while little ones discover the quiet magic of the natural world. No structured lessons, no rush: just real time outside, together.

Forest Playgroup is on a break until Spring 2026.