Central Kids Helen Downer Kindergarten moves for new building after 66 years

From left, AJ Kiel-Roberts, 4, head teacher Carol Gabolinscy, Eden Roimata, 4, and Maverick Kiel-Roberts, 2, at Central Kids Helen Downer Kindergarten. Photo / Andrew Warner

After 66 years in the same building, Central Kids Helen Downer Kindergarten is preparing for a temporary move while a new building is constructed.

Rotorua's first free kindergarten was established in 1950 at Malfroy Rd Baptist Church by the late Helen Downer.

The Central Kids Helen Downer Kindergarten building was then the first kindergarten built in Rotorua in 1954, named after Helen.

Head teacher Carol Gabolinscy says it so happens that their temporary premises while the construction takes place is back at Malfroy Rd Baptist Church.

"That is special to us. We are very lucky to be able to go back there. It's quite special and meaningful to go back to where it all originated from."

They will be moving to their temporary premises from July 20 and open there on July 27.

She says the construction process will be a long one and could take between one and two years, but it will be exciting when they move back into the new building.

Carol says the kindergarten building is quite iconic, and that when people ask where she works they often say someone they know or themselves went there.

"It's well-known and has a lot of history."

Today, the kindergarten is holding a farewell day, which past teachers and pupils have also been invited to join in with.

She says the day will include lots of fun activities for the children who are coming in dressed up, a performance by the children and kai.

"It's a time for families to come and share the history, memories and fun times."

She reckons there will be a mix of emotions today, of sadness but also excitement for the future.

Carol has been working at the kindergarten for seven years.

When asked what she loves about it, the response was, "The children of course.

"Every day is different and there's just so many special moments with the children, and of course with their lovely families that come through those doors.

"We've built up a kindergarten which is like family."

Helen Downer was originally a secondary school teacher and taught at Rotorua High School.

In 1950, Helen convened a public meeting that established the Rotorua Free
Kindergarten Association, of which she became president.

She was later elected national president of the New Zealand Free Kindergarten Union in 1957, a role which she held until she retired in 1966.