Here are some of the most common questions we’ve been asked about Sunny Days. If your question isn’t answered or if you would like to know more, please contact us or call us at 06 842 2101
How do I choose the right care for my child?
We strongly advise that you visit Sunny Days and any centre you are considering. It’s best to try and visit a centre on at least two occasions – once without your child to get a feel for the centre and once with your child to see how they settle.
Questions that are good to discuss when you visit are:
- How do you support learning for each child?
- How do you keep records of the children’s learning?
- How do you manage children’s behaviour?
- What is the daily routine?
- How will I know how my child is getting on?
How many children are enrolled? Is there is a waiting list?
Sunny Days is licensed for 62 children, including up to 14 under two. This means the maximum number of children in our care at any one time must not exceed 62 (we often have more than 62 children enrolled with the centre as many children attend part time).
If you would like to join the Sunny Days whānau, fill out our form here. We’ll be in touch to discuss your whānau and child’s needs, and we can let you know about availability then. We’ll put you on our waiting list if there is nothing immediately available.
Is your service licensed under the Ministry of Education?
Yes, Sunny Days is a licensed early childhood education service. This means we must meet quality standards across everything we do. We are also regularly reviewed by the Education Review Office (ERO) – you can view our latest Education Review Office report here.
Do you provide snacks and lunch?
Yes.
For Under 2s: we supply nutritious and balanced meals and snacks for your tamariki.
For Over 2s: Sunny Days is part of the KidsCan ECE Food for Kids Programme, which provides free, nutritious meals for children aged 2-5. This is a two-year programme, which we started in 2025.
KidsCan include options such as lasagne with vegetables, chicken chop suey, cauliflower mac ‘n’ cheese, fresh sandwiches, fruits, and yoghurt.
Please contact us if you want to learn more about the food we provide or want to kōrero about your child’s specific needs.
What involvement is expected of the parent/s, caregivers and whānau?
We welcome and encourage whānau participation, and discussion about your child’s progress and involvement.
Involving your child and talking to them about their day and experiences helps build their confidence and sense of belonging. You can include your child in the conversation when talking to kaiako about your child’s activities or display their paintings and other work at home to help build on this.
Do you offer 20 Hours ECE?
Yes. If your child is 3, 4 or 5 years old, you will be eligible to enrol your child to receive a 20 Hours Early Childhood Education (ECE) subsidy. This is a universal funding subsidy provided by the Ministry of Education. This means that the cost of care can be funded for up to 6 hours a day and up to 20 hours a week. There may be some additional charges that will be discussed with you upon enrolment.
You can read more about 20 Hours ECE from the Ministry of Education here.
What is the cost of childcare at Sunny Days?
Our fees are set at an affordable hourly rate. For children aged 3–5 years, you may be eligible for the government’s 20 Hours ECE subsidy. Fees are invoiced weekly and can be paid by automatic payment, direct debit, or at our office by EFTPOS.
If you think you may qualify for a WINZ Childcare Subsidy, let us know during enrolment and we can help you with the application. WINZ subsidies should be confirmed before childcare starts.
See our Fees and Hours page for current rates and more information.
How do I get my child to and from Sunny Days?
Sunny Days is located at 30 Barker Road, Marewa, Napier. Parents, guardians and authorised persons can pick up and drop off children.
If it’s challenging for you to get your child to and from Sunny Days, our free van service may be available to support you with transport for your child. Places are very limited, so please get in touch with us if you’d like to discuss.
When is Sunny Days open?
Our hours are from 7:45am to 5:15pm, Monday to Friday, including school holidays. We are closed over the Christmas/New Year period and on public holidays. Our Christmas closure period will be communicated to all whānau well in advance of the holidays.
How do you help children settle in?
We work closely with whānau to support a smooth transition. Our experienced kaiako help children settle at their own pace, providing individual support to make their start positive. There’s no fixed time for settling in, some children adjust quickly, others need more time.
How can I provide feedback or raise a concern?
At Sunny Days, we value open communication and welcome your feedback at any time. If you have a concern or something you’d like to discuss, please talk with your child’s kaiako or Head Teacher.
Parents and caregivers have the right to raise a complaint without fear of retribution and to have it handled promptly and respectfully. If you wish to make a formal complaint, please see our Complaints Policy.