Waimate Childcare Centre is a community-based early childhood centre at 18 John Street in Waimate. It is licensed by the Ministry of Education for 47 children, and it cares for children from 3 months to 6 years. The centre says all profits go back into the centre, and it describes a safe, homely environment with music, story and group times. Its teachers are trained in early childhood education and attend professional development regularly.
The centre opens at 7.45am and operates all year except four weeks over Christmas and public holidays. Child ratios are 1:8 for children over two and 1:4 for under-twos. Morning and afternoon tea are provided free, with lunch shared by all the children. Fees are $4.95 per hour as at 2026, and 30 free hours of early childhood education are offered to children aged three and over. Families are asked to stay with their child until they settle, which can take two or three visits. The centre is at 18 John Street, and visits can be arranged by talking to the teachers.