In Ponsonby, a wealthy Auckland suburb, a recent decision by the board of the Ponsonby Community Centre to extend the hours of the Ponsonby Community Preschool has led to significant backlash from parents. Originally, the preschool operated from 8:30am to 4pm, but the board decided to extend this to 8am to 5:30pm. This change, announced in July and implemented in August, resulted in a dramatic drop in enrollment, with only two children remaining out of an original 26. Despite a special meeting where parents proposed a vote of no confidence and requested the board’s resignation, the board refused to step down. The board chair, Nick Davies, defended the changes, stating they were necessary to accommodate more families and align with other daycare centers’ hours. He acknowledged some families and staff had left but emphasized a community consultation would be initiated to address concerns.
Only Two Children Remain at Preschool in Wealthy Auckland Suburb
Updated on September 9, 2024