Welcome to Nīkau Montessori School | Montessori Primary Education in Nature

Nurturing young minds naturally

 
 
 

Welcome to Nīkau Montessori School, where education is child-led, nature-connected, and deeply rooted in respect for the whole child. Located between beachfront in Snells Beach, our Montessori primary school offers tamariki aged 6 to 12 years a unique and nurturing learning environment that fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Discover Montessori by the Sea

Nīkau Montessori School is a vibrant, community-driven school dedicated to delivering authentic Montessori education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our beachfront location allows children to learn not only with their minds and hands, but also with their hearts – surrounded by the natural world.

We combine the time-tested Montessori curriculum with outdoor exploration, hands-on materials, and a peaceful classroom culture that empowers children to develop essential academic, social, and emotional skills.

What Makes Nīkau Montessori School Unique?

  • Montessori education for ages 6–12: A proven child-led method that respects each learner’s pace and passions.

  • Beachside learning environment: Daily access to the beach and reserve for outdoor education, nature walks, and real-world inquiry.

  • Holistic curriculum: Integrated learning in literacy, maths, science, geography, culture, and the arts.

  • Multi-age classrooms: Encouraging peer learning, leadership, and social cohesion.

  • Strong community culture: We work in partnership with whānau and celebrate each child’s unique journey.

A Day at Nīkau Montessori School

Imagine your child beginning their day with a smile, walking into a calm, prepared environment where they choose meaningful work, explore big ideas, and collaborate with peers. With uninterrupted work cycles, integrated outdoor time, and personalised learning goals, every day is a new opportunity for discovery.

From researching volcanoes and writing poems to planting native trees and mapping the solar system, our students are engaged in deep, joyful learning that connects them to themselves, each other, and the world.

For Parents Seeking Something Different

We understand that families are looking for more than just academics – they want a school that sees and nurtures the whole child. At Nīkau Montessori School, we honour the uniqueness of every learner and provide an environment where tamariki grow into capable, confident, and compassionate people.

Our learning space prioritises emotional well-being, curiosity, and connection.

Take the Next Step

Ready to learn more about Montessori education at Nīkau? Start here:

 

TESTIMONIALS

 
Nikau School provides an amazing environment for children to learn and grown. The school values each child as an individual and enables them to pave their own learning journey. We are very grateful to have found Nikau and look forward to watching our children continue to grow and flourish there.
— Kylie and Ryan
 

 
Nikau school is the most beautiful environment for learning. Our daughter has loved every second and settled without hesitation with Joy and her very welcoming team. Their approach has always inspired our family and we are so grateful for the experiences we’ve had there.
— Alex
 

 
Joy and the Nikau school team are clearly so passionate about education and the school nurtures a love for learning, allowing children to thrive at their own pace. It’s all about preparing them for the future and shaping them to be confident, empowered individuals. I couldn’t recommend Nikau School enough.
— Tegan and Tom