Centre celebrates turning 10

Jiggs Bradley and Sharon Davis were instrumental in setting up the He Kakano Early Childcare Centre 10 years ago. Photo / John Stone

A Whangarei daycare centre that supports teen parents to continue their own educational journey is turning 10.

He Kakano Early Childcare Centre is a sister centre for He Matariki School for Teen Parents. He Kakano celebrated 10 years of wrap-around support for young parents and their whanau at a celebratory hangi described by centre manager Jenny Davis as "heartwarming".

Laquette Rapana, Shiquan Rapana Erueti and Shilo Erueti are among the families currently engaged with He Kakano.

"We had a really big turnout with current staff, past staff, ex-clients - some of whom have children now grown up," she said.

More than 100 people turned up , which Ms Davis said celebrated a particularly unique and successful service. "We sit alongside the school so parents can come down here whenever they want to," she said.

He Kakano teacher Louise Musgrove, left, with past staff Jacqui Organ and Magla Stanish.

"We can send texts to our breastfeeding mums and encourage teen dads to come down as well. It is unique in that some parents are as young as 13."

Ms Davis said the highlight was when parents returned to the centre to share their stories.

"We have girls who have been teen parents and their children have come through [He Kakano]. Some have gone on to do future study, and become teachers or nurses. There are some really awesome outcomes.

"It's such a wonderful place to work ..."

SUCCESS STORY: Berlin Blake, left Elisha Roest, Stella Roest and with He Kakano manager Jenny Davis.

Northern Advocate photographer John Stone captured the celebration.