Holmes Kindergarten is one of five kindergartens run by the Ōamaru Kindergarten Association, a non-profit community organisation formed in 1948 and governed by an elected board. The kindergarten sits back from the street at 34A Stuart Street in Holmes Hill, Ōamaru, between two outdoor play areas. Inside, it has an open-plan learning space, where children choose where to play and learn, and the children's own art and photographs are displayed on the walls. The programme is based on Te Whāriki, with relationships at its centre, teaching children to build respectful and kind relationships with teachers and each other. Each kindergarten has a head teacher and teachers who follow the curriculum. The kindergarten is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4.30pm, with sessions from 8.30am to 2.30pm on weekdays. Children bring a packed lunch, and extra food is available. Our pick in Ōamaru for a family who want a community-run early childhood service with a strong sense of place.