In 2005, after owning and operating Strawberry Fields childcare centres in Auckland, I founded New Zealand Childcare Finance - a specialist finance company to help early childhood operators access the working capital they need to grow and thrive.
Back then, and still now to an extent, traditional banks didn't fully grasp the unique cash flow cycles of the early childhood sector - the peaks and troughs of Ministry funding, the fluctuations in enrolments, and the personal dedication of those who choose to care for and educate our youngest New Zealanders. My goal was simple: I wanted to provide practical, flexible finance to ECE owners, from someone who understood what it’s like to be in their shoes.
For the past 20 years, it has been my privilege to work closely with hundreds of ECC members across the country. Many of those business relationships have grown into lasting personal friendships. I have always believed our role extended far beyond lending - it was about being a trusted partner in the background, who understands and can empathise helping to ensure centres could focus on what truly matters: the children.
Those early years at Strawberry Fields shaped everything that came after. I remember introducing small but meaningful initiatives - like our graduation capping ceremonies for children heading off to school, complete with caps, gowns and proud smiles; weekly visits from Dr Strawberry, a local GP who popped in to care for sniffles and crusty runny noses; and Club Strawberry, where children learned to exercise safely and benefit from hand eye coordination and brain development. Collaboration with specialists was instrumental in developing our little ones before school. These experiences taught me that education and care work best when we treat children and their families with warmth and respect. That same philosophy guided New Zealand Childcare Finance from day one.
Nigel and Lena Thomson at the ECC Conference 2022
Since starting the finance business, I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a close partnership with the Early Childhood Council and its members. Each year, our stand at the ECC annual conferences became more than a business presence - it was a place to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate our industries achievements. I’ve seen first-hand how hard ECC advocates for members and educators, and it’s been a honour to play a small role in supporting that mission.
This year marks a significant milestone. After more than two decades in finance, my husband, Nigel, and I have made the decision to step aside and pass the baton to new owners who will continue the same commitment and values that have guided us. The transition sees the same trusted finance team remaining in place, led day-to-day by Emily Stevens, who many of you already know. Emily brings her own experience to the business, and I have confidence her service to you will continue and flourish.
Emily Stevens at the ECC conference 2025.
I feel deeply grateful for the people I’ve met, the stories shared, and the trust placed in us. The early childhood sector and the ECC community has been a true source of inspiration. Your resilience, compassion, and dedication to the wellbeing and development of New Zealand’s children are remarkable. As I’ve always said - we are shaping our country's future through our care for its children.
Although I’m stepping aside, my personal connection with the sector will remain strong. The friendships and experiences I’ve gained have shaped my life and I’ll always carry a deep respect for those who dedicate themselves to the care and education of young children.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the trust and warmth, and for allowing me to be part of your journey for the past twenty years. It’s been a joy and a privilege I have not taken for granted.
