Hororātā Playcentre has made the decision to move onto the grounds of Hororātā Primary School, with support from Playcentre Aotearoa, the Hororātā Community Trust, and the school.

The move follows careful consideration of all options, including remaining at the Hororātā Hall, with the decision focused on what is best for young families in Hororātā.

Bringing the Playcentre onto the school site will create stronger connections for tamariki and their whānau, helping build familiarity and confidence as children transition into primary education. It will also provide a more connected, central hub for families in Hororātā.

The Hororātā Community Trust has actively supported Playcentre through this process and will continue to do so as the move progresses.

“This has been part of the community vision for over 10 years, so it’s great to see it now becoming a reality for families,” says Cindy Driscoll, Executive Officer of the Hororātā Community Trust.

“We explored all options carefully, and this decision has been led by what will best support our families and tamariki,” says Sara Moore, Regional Manager for Playcentre Aotearoa.

Hororātā Primary School has worked closely with Playcentre to make the move possible, including providing space within the school and supporting planning for shared use.

“Having Playcentre on site is a real positive for our school and the wider community,” says Principal Marty Gameson. “It creates a natural pathway for our youngest learners and strengthens the connection between early learning and primary education.”

The move will see the Playcentre operating from the school on a set-up and pack-down basis, with plans underway to secure funding for essential infrastructure such as fencing, storage, and play areas.

Together, the organisations see this as a practical and positive step that supports families, strengthens local services, and helps keep Hororātā a great place to live and learn.

The move will happen in term 3. Until then, the Playcentre continues to operate at the Hororātā Hall. If you would like to join Hororātā Playcentre email hororata@playcentre.org.nz