Kia ora e te whānau,

As we continue our mahi for 2025, we have several important updates and reminders to share with you. To make things easier, we’ve prioritised the most urgent information at the top of this pānui. Please read carefully and get in touch if you have any pātai.

Year-End 2024 Audit Reports – Due 28 February 2025

 

A reminder that Year-End 2024 audit reports are due by 28 February 2025 for the March 2025 Kaupapa Funding release.

• As of 17 February, 88 reports have been received – kia kaha whānau to get yours in on time to avoid delays.

Questions? Contact: [email protected]

Pay Parity Opt-in Dates for 2025 – Key Dates

Is your kōhanga ready to take the next step with Pay Parity in 2025? Opting in ensures your kaimahi receive the support and recognition they deserve. The opt-in process is open now, and we encourage kōhanga to confirm before the key dates below:

• 1 March 2025

• 1 July 2025

• 1 November 2025
   

If your kōhanga is ready to opt-in please complete the Pay Parity opt-in form or if you have any pātai, please email: [email protected]

Fortnightly Pays – Transition Updates
 

For the past two years, Te Kōhanga Reo National Trust has proudly covered the Smartly personnel fees for kōhanga reo, contributing $1.2 million towards supporting whānau and easing operational costs. This support has allowed kōhanga to focus on what matters most – the care, education, and well-being of our mokopuna.

As we move to fortnightly pays, the Trust is making adjustments to ensure this approach remains sustainable. While kōhanga will now gradually take on these fees, we’re pleased to share that:

• Most kōhanga will receive a 50% reduction in Smartly fees, easing the transition.

• The Trust will continue to provide significant support during the transition period, depending on when kōhanga choose to move to fortnightly pays.
   

Transition Options:

• Move immediately: Trust covers fees until March 2027

• From 1 July 2025: Trust covers fees until 1 November 2026

• From 1 November 2025: Trust covers fees until 1 July 2026

• From 1 March 2026: Fees revert immediately to kōhanga
   

This phased approach reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting kōhanga while ensuring long-term sustainability for all.

Questions? Email: [email protected]

Pay Parity Achievements and Progress

We’re excited to share some exciting updates:

• 296 kōhanga reo have opted into Pay Parity as at 31 January 2025 – targeting 320 by year-end!

• $43 million has been paid by the Crown towards kaimahi salaries.

• Growing participation in Te Tohu Paetahi – the future looks bright!

• Recent wānanga have provided greater clarity around Pay Parity benefits.
   

Kia kaha whānau – together, we’re building a brighter future!

Late & Amended Submissions 

We know how busy things can get, so we’re here to help you stay on top of important submission dates. We’ve shared reminders previously – if you missed them, you can catch up here:

🔗 Pre-Christmas Reminders

🔗 Important Changes to Kaupapa Funding

These pānui outline crucial steps for submission processes, and this latest update brings everything together so you can plan ahead with confidence.

Ensure your kōhanga doesn’t miss out by noting these important dates:

Submission Cut-off Dates:

• 5^th June 2025 (for the July period)

• 5^th October 2025 (for the November period)

• 5^th February 2026 (for the March period)
   

Reminder Schedule:

• 1st Reminder: 30 April 2025 | 31 August 2025 | Mid-December 2025

• 2nd Reminder: Mid-May 2025 | Mid-September 2025 | Mid-January 2026

• Final Reminder: 30 May 2025 | 30 September 2025
   

Why these Dates Matter

As shared in our earlier pānui, submissions made after these deadlines may cause funding delays. To avoid disruptions:

• Submit on time – following the key dates above

• Plan early – particularly ahead of holiday periods

• Double-check details – accurate submissions mean faster processing.
   

We encourage kōhanga to refer back to the previous pānui for additional tips and guidance on submission processes.

Need Help? 

Email: [email protected]

Our team is here to support you!