An enchanted forest preschool germinates in Tairua Forest

Wonder Woods, founded by Laura van Leeuwen, brings preschool children, with  their parents, into nature for outdoor-based learning, exploration and connection. Since launching earlier this year, the programme has quickly grown from a small idea into a thriving community initiative attracting families from across Coromandel.

For Laura, the idea grew out of both professional passion and motherhood.

“I wanted to be with my son while I was off work but also use my skills and passion in a way that was meaningful for other families too,” she says.

Laura brings more than a decade of experience to the project, having taught at Tairua School and Hikuai School, worked as a Resource Teacher: Learning and Behaviour across the Hauraki region, and later as a Learning Support Coordinator within the Coromandel Kāhui Ako, supporting schools and ECE services in Opoutere, Hikuai, Tairua, Whenuakite and Coroglen. She has also completed postgraduate study in specialist teaching and a Diploma in Positive Psychology and Wellbeing.

Having previously visited forest schools and outdoor learning programmes Laura had seen firsthand the benefits children experienced when learning in natural environments.

“My inspiration for Wonder Woods began after visiting a forest school and seeing the impact nature-based learning was having on children and young people.  Through speaking with students, whānau and educators, I noticed the positive effect regular time in nature had on confidence, independence, emotional wellbeing and executive functioning skills such as problem-solving, communication, resilience and self-regulation. 

“It was clear that children were deeply engaged, capable and connected – both to themselves and to others,” continues Laura.

She loved the idea of bringing like-minded families together in a calm, supportive environment where children could play, explore and learn in nature.

Laura had been scouting possible venues for her son’s birthday party over summer when she discovered the small stand of mature redwood trees (also known as sequoia) beside the Ōpoutere community hall.

“I came to check out the redwoods and immediately thought this could be such a cool place for a playgroup,” she says.

“It’s not just any forest - it’s particularly beautiful. There’s a natural clearing with a stream running through it, busy birdlife and these incredible trees. It feels magical.”

The nearby hall provided an ideal base, complete with shelter, toilets and a wet-weather option.

She approached Matariki Forests’ Bay of Plenty regional manager, Andy Warren to share her vision.

Andy says the idea was immediately appealing and he worked with Laura to provide access and ensure a safe space for the children and teachers to gather.

“We believe this stand of sequoia trees was likely planted back in the 1930s,” he says.  “We presume they were planted with the understanding of their magnificence when matured, for the community to enjoy.

“Elsewhere within the forest, sections of river edges were also established with redwoods in single file and similar size and age.  These plantings were likely undertaken in recognition of sequoia’s ability for the stump to regrow coppice due to the roots remaining alive, if the tree is cut down,” continues Andy.

“It’s only a small area, but it’s like walking into a cathedral with the dappled sunlight filtering through the tall canopy and the quiet murmuring of the small stream flowing past.  It’s a tranquil enclave in a busy world,” says Andy.

For parents, the attraction of Wonder Woods has been immediate as they see the calming effect on the children.  One parent described the setting as ‘stepping back in time.’

“There’s something really special about this place,” she said. “It’s a lovely way to bring people together and I hope, as a community we can grow it further,” added Laura.

As Wonder Woods continues to grow, the programme is becoming more than simply an outdoor playgroup. It is helping reconnect families with nature, community and a slower rhythm of childhood.