Te Rito Maioha advocates for early childhood education as a central election priority for whānau

Te Rito Maioha Early Childhood New Zealand is calling on political parties to prioritise tamariki and whānau as the nation approaches the 2026 election. According to a report by Waatea News on Saturday, 3 October 2026, the organisation is encouraging parents to elevate early childhood education (ECE) to a major election issue, focusing on quality, affordability, and sustainable sector support. The advocacy group has launched an election manifesto titled "A Great Start for Every Child," which outlines five key priorities for the incoming government. These goals include establishing better teacher-to-child ratios, building a qualified and valued teaching workforce, and ensuring ECE remains affordable for all families. The manifesto also calls for sustainable funding models and stronger protections to maintain high standards across the early learning sector. Te Rito Maioha Chief Executive Kathy Wolfe stated that parents have a significant stake in government decisions regarding staffing ratios and funding. Wolfe noted that whānau should be actively questioning political candidates on how they intend to ensure every child has access to high-quality early learning opportunities. The organisation is pushing for a clear pathway toward a 100 percent qualified teaching workforce to better serve New Zealand’s youngest learners. As the election campaign progresses, the organisation argues that the future of the sector should not be left to politicians alone. By urging parents to make their voices heard, Te Rito Maioha aims to place the needs of tamariki at the centre of the national policy debate. The call to action emphasises that adequate funding and improved teaching conditions are essential for the long-term wellbeing of whānau and the wider community.