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Ministry of Education New Zealand
Important

New version effective 20 April 2026

This is the new version of the licensing criterion and associated guidance.

Criterion PF122#

# ☀ There is space (away from where food is stored, prepared or eaten) where a sick child can:

  • be temporarily kept at a safe distance from other children (to prevent cross-infection)
  • lie down comfortably; and
  • be supervised.

Guidance #

How to show you are complying #

If a child becomes unwell while at your service, there must be a space where they can rest and be cared for until they are picked up. This space should:

  • be away from where food is prepared, stored, or eaten
  • allow the child to be kept at a safe distance from others to prevent spreading illness
  • be comfortable so the child can lie down and rest
  • allow the child to be supervised.

You don’t need a special room, but you do need a suitable area. Many centres use a staff room or office. If the child is in a separate room with an adult, your service must still meet the required adult-to-child ratios.

Think about what bedding or furniture you will use that can be set up when needed and hygienically cleaned to prevent cross contamination once the child is no longer using it. For more guidance, refer to HS120 Response to infectious illnesses.

HS120 Response to infectious illnesses

A sun symbol (☀) indicates these facilities can be outside the main building, as long as there is adequate access. You can read the definition of adequate access in the glossary.

Adequate access