Here's How We Got Started
The Beginning
In 2008, after moving from Chicago, to Auckland, Surjit Juneja envisioned a quieter life, one rooted in family, presence, and time with his son.
But purpose has a way of calling louder than comfort.
In 2010, driven by a deep desire to give back, he established the first Sikh temple in West Auckland, creating a space for connection, culture and community. That same year, his granddaughter Baani was born.
It was in the everyday moments — the simple walks during drop-offs and pick-ups — that something shifted. An idea sparked. A curiosity that wouldn’t leave.
As Surjit began exploring early childhood education, what started as an interest quickly turned into a passion. The more he learned, the more he saw the potential, not just in children, but in shaping futures.
With his wife, Surjeet (an experienced teacher), they formed a powerful partnership. One grounded in education, the other in structure and vision. Together, they saw what was possible.
From long drives to Palmerston North, to relentless planning and belief, their first centre, Lots of Hugs, opened in 2014. What began as a single step quietly became something much bigger. “I didn’t know so many people would join me in this vision. I started a centre because watching children thrive gave me a sense of achievement that no other work ever had. I never knew it wasn’t just the start of a centre… but the beginning of something much bigger.
Transformation
Connection
Vision
Empowering with Expertise & Experience
Our team is made up of experienced childcare professionals with extensive backgrounds in early childhood education, child development, centre management, and family engagement.
We are passionate about creating supportive, nurturing environments where children can learn and thrive. By sharing our knowledge and practical experience, we work to support educators, guide families, and help childcare centres overcome challenges while delivering high-quality care and learning opportunities for every child.
Our Values
Spirit of
Service
Service isn’t just something we do, it’s who we are. Every action, from greeting a child at the door to designing a learning environment, is driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference.
We see service in the little moments: a teacher pausing to truly listen to a child’s story, or a team coming together to solve a challenge. This spirit of care extends beyond our walls, nurturing empathy, compassion and citizenship in every child who steps into our centres.
Growth and
Learning
Here, learning never stops, for children or educators. We embrace curiosity, inquiry and risk as opportunities to grow, inspired by the belief that every experience shapes future thinking.
Whether it’s a child experimenting with ideas, or our teams exploring innovative approaches to teaching and leadership, we champion a culture where learning is fuel, and reflection drives progress. Growth here is intentional, continuous and celebrated. Because every small step is part of a bigger journey.
Belonging and
Cultural Responsiveness
You will experience a space where very child, family and educator is welcomed and valued for who they are. We honour diverse backgrounds, languages and traditions, while embedding te ao Māori and aroha into everything we do.
Through open communication and a genuine celebration of diverse perspectives, we foster a culture where kaiako feel a true sense of belonging. Here, every team member knows they matter and they are empowered to thrive.