Daycare dollars: who's winning and losing?

Daycare chains are booming despite rising costs, teacher shortages and funding issues. (Image: NZME)
Cécile Meier
Zack Newman
In the first of a two-part investigation into Early Childhood Education (ECE), BusinessDesk examines the sector’s winners and losers. The second part will examine potential solutions to level the playing field.A record number of ECE services closed last year.Rising costs, staffing shortages and inadequate government funding are plaguing the sector. Public health experts warn overcrowded centres will cause long-term harm to children’s health. Parent fees keep increasing.  The ECE sector is in crisis, but not all operat...

More Investigations

Private health insurance in demand as public waitlists grow
Investigations

Private health insurance in demand as public waitlists grow

More employers are offering health insurance despite rising premiums.

John Anthony 17 Nov 2025
Rare Returns: Exporting NZ red meat smarter, not harder
Primary Sector Rare Returns

Rare Returns: Exporting NZ red meat smarter, not harder

Is it time to take The Lamb Company model elsewhere?

Riley Kennedy 07 Nov 2025
Insurers seek more clout in planning decisions
Investigations

Insurers seek more clout in planning decisions

Insurers won't settle for being an afterthought in future developments.

Greg Hurrell 04 Nov 2025
New flood and landslide maps hone in on natural hazards
Investigations

New flood and landslide maps hone in on natural hazards

There is a “knowledge vacuum” between residential development and natural hazards.

Greg Hurrell 30 Oct 2025