Thousands of children across Aotearoa may lose access to early childhood education (ECE) due to funding issues. The Government’s 2025 budget includes only a 0.5 per cent cost increase, which does not cover pay parity and rising expenses. A new analysis from the ECE Sector Partnership shows an annual funding gap of $104 million, with some centres expecting losses of up to $167,000.
“If the Government does not act, up to 400 centres could shut their doors,” says Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand Chief Executive, Cathy Wilson.
The Partnership, which represents nearly 60 per cent of the sector, is urging the Government to redirect Family Boost underspend as a short‑term fix while long‑term funding reform is developed.
You can read the full article on scoop.co.nz.
Thousands of Tamariki Risk Losing Access to ECE as Funding Shortfall Deepens
Tuesday, 4 November 2025
Thousands of families across New Zealand could lose their childcare options in the next 12 months as a gaping funding hole is making it harder for early childhood education (ECE) centres to meet rising costs.
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