About Wilding Haven..
Wildling Haven is a nature-inspired, child-led playgroup where children can explore, create, and connect alongside their parents or caregivers. We believe in a mix of natural and playful resources, both inside and outside, with our philosophy and environment guided by nature.
Founded by two passionate and qualified Early Childhood Teachers, Pip and Rosie, Wildling Haven was created from a love of the early years and a desire to provide families across Te Puke and the wider Bay of Plenty with a welcoming haven to learn and grow together.
We believe parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. That’s why our sessions are designed for both children and caregivers to learn, explore, and grow together, all at the child’s lead. Through free play and gentle provocation, we encourage you to trust your child’s natural instincts, creativity, and ability to discover the world around them.
Each Wildling Haven session features play stations that invite exploration and connection. From the infant mat with open-ended resources to spark curiosity, to a cozy book nook for moments of rest, every space is created to nurture both mind and body. Children can immerse themselves in sensory play at the playdough table, dive into themed sensory play, pour and mix at the water station, or paint freely at our non-toxic art station; whether that means creating a keepsake or simply enjoying the process.
More than just a playgroup, Wildling Haven is a haven where creative minds run free, friendships grow, and the very best memories are made.
Come stay, play and see the world through your child’s eyes.
Want to know more about our Stay & Play
the creators behind Wildling Haven and your Facilitators
Pip
Hi, I’m Pip.
I was born and raised in Pongakawa on a dairy farm, where my childhood was filled with muddy/pooiy boots, fresh air and endless adventures. I have fond memories of playing in the calf pens, helping on the farm, building huts, splashing with the hose, exploring the chook house, running through the long grass and visiting my grandparents next door.
Today, my husband Tim and I live in Te Puke with our two boys, our fur baby Bindi the cat and five chickens.
My parents still own the family farm and it’s become a favourite place for my boys to play, explore, and create their own special memories, especially on Sundays when the whole family gathers for dinner and the cousins explore.
Aside from being a mum, I’m a registered and qualified Early Childhood Education teacher, working with children under three. Teaching for me, is far more than a job, it’s my passion. I love watching how children’s minds process the world, seeing their excitement and pride when they achieve something new and giving them the time and space to explore beyond their comfort zones. I believe play is learning and that a secure, nurturing relationships are the foundation for children to thrive.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring nature, gardening, cooking and baking and simply relaxing together.
Why Wildling Haven?
I wanted to create a place where parents and children could simply be together, without pressure or planning. A place to connect, play and share special moment. I believe strong parent–child relationships are the foundation for children’s growth, shaping their confidence, resilience and sense of belonging.
Child-led play is at the heart of what we do, because it allows children to explore the world at their own pace, follow their curiosity and develop a lifelong love for learning. I’ve seen firsthand, through my own boys, the magic that happens when children are immersed in nature, whether it’s going for a bush walk, riding bikes, or playing in the rivers.
Wildling Haven was created to embrace the wonderful world of outdoor play. Here, children can explore without limits, while parents are right there beside them, building memories that will last a lifetime.
We can't wait for you to join us.
Rosie
Kia ora, I’m Rosie.
I was blessed to grow up between Tauranga and Te Puke, where the beach was our backyard and saltwater ran through everything we did. My childhood was filled with sandy feet, long days swimming, climbing rocks and exploring the harbour. The ocean has always been my grounding place. It is a space for adventure, reflection and feeling truly free. I also spent seven beautiful years living in the South Island where my love for wild landscapes, community and nature deepened further.
These days I live with my husband Dan, my partner in crime and our little dog Obi. I’m learning to slow down from the rush of everyday life and enjoy the simple things: baking, reading, walking, tinkering with projects and spending time with the people I love.
I’m a qualified and registered early childhood teacher with over 16 years of experience. For me, teaching has always been about relationships. Connecting with tamariki, supporting their whānau and being part of each child’s journey brings me purpose and joy. I’m passionate about nature-based, creative, open-ended play and I believe deeply in the power of slowing down, getting messy and discovering the world together. I strive to foster a love for learning and a strong sense of independence in every child. I want to empower them to trust their ideas, explore at their own pace and grow into confident, curious learners.
Why Wildling Haven?
Wildling Haven was born from a desire to create something meaningful. A place where children can be truly themselves: curious, messy, wild and free. It’s also a space where adults are encouraged to slow down, reconnect with their tamariki and rediscover their own inner child. In a fast-paced world, we believe in the power of simple joys. Barefoot play, shared laughter, muddy hands and meaningful connection. Through nature-based, child-led play, Wildling Haven offers a space for families to connect, grow and feel like they belong. It’s more than a playgroup. It’s a place to breathe, to be and to find the wild within.
Pip and I have been friends for over 13 years and together we share a deep belief in curiosity, connection, community and just giving things a go, even when it feels a little scary. Wildling Haven brings those values to life. It is a place for children and families to play, grow and have fun.
We can’t wait to meet you.
