Whitford Early Learning Centre is a licensed early childhood centre on five rural acres at 633 Whitford Road, Howick, with alpacas, a swimming pool and an outdoor classroom. It takes children from 3 months to 5 years, in three programmes: infant care from 3 to 18 months, toddler care from 18 months to 3½ years, and kindergarten from 3 to 5 years. Under-2s have a primary caregiver, and the entry rooms have one teacher for every four children. The school readiness programme works on early literacy and numeracy through play, along with social and self-help skills. Parents who have written about the centre say they receive daily updates, that the teachers and owner go out of their way to make children comfortable, and that the children enjoy walks to see the animals, grassy hills, the outdoor kitchen and swimming. Half-day sessions are offered in the morning, 9 am to 12 pm, and the afternoon, 1 pm to 4 pm. An open day is being held for 2026 to 2027 enrolments. The centre is easy to reach from Howick, Botany, Beachlands, Maraetai, Whitford and Flat Bush.