Meet The Team

Liz is the Centre Manager here at Te Papapa Preschool. Liz devotes her time and energy to ensuring our Preschool is successful and the children in our care are happy and safe. She has a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) from Manukau Institute of Technology & a Post Graduate Diploma in Primary School Education and Teaching. With over 20 years experience Liz is able to support and guide her team to ensure and promote positive outcomes for all. Liz comes from a large family and with her husband has 8 children and 5 grandchildren. Liz has an active role in her community including coaching Softball teams and volunteering at To Wahi (Onehunga). Liz is committed to peace and respect and creates an atmosphere of ‘home’ as we navigate our education and care journey together.

As administrator of Te Papapa Preschool, Theresa creates a supportive and organized environment that fosters the
well-being of our children, the professional growth of our kaiako and the overall development of our preschool. She is committed to ensuring that the center runs smoothly by upholding high standards of operations, managing resources, and empowering teachers, staff, and families to collaborate in the best interests of the children.

Currently on her Te Reo me ngā Tikanga Māori journey, Theresa is implementing her knowledge into her daily role and responsibilities as well as sharing the language and cultural practices with our preschool community. 

Kathleen believes children are unique and therefore promotes an environment that supports and nurtures individual cultural beliefs and values, life experiences and the individuality each whanau bring with them. She believes in our curriculum to support, foster, and encourage children to learn and grow as individuals where they are competent and confident human beings. Kathleen believes that a learning environment should create a strong sense of family and unity and therefore builds positive relationships with all to provide positive learning outcomes for children. Kathleen holds a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) and ensures reciprocal inter-relationships are established and maintained here at Te Papapa Preschool.

Kalolaine is a dedicated mother of two children and living in Mt. Roskill. Kalolaine begun her teaching career at a Tongan Community Preschool where she taught for 8 years. She has taken the skills and knowledge that she learnt there and brought them to Te Papapa Preschool where she provides high quality care and learning opportunities for young children. Kalolaine enjoys working with children of all ages and finds her time here at Te Papapa Preschool to be rewarding work where both the children and herself are on a continuous learning journey. Kalolaine holds a Diploma in Early Childhood from University of Auckland and is skilled and knowledgeable in the care and education of Pasifika children.

Mother to 3 beautiful tamariki and kaiako of 10 years, Levi holds a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and believes in placing children at the heart of all she does. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that young children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. Levi aims to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where each child feels valued and supported. She believes in fostering curiosity and creativity by providing opportunities for hands-on learning, allowing children to explore their world at their own pace. By promoting social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, Levi strives to help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. She views each child as an individual with unique strengths and needs, and is committed to guiding them in a way that encourages confidence, resilience, and a love for learning.

Faye is a nurturing and dedicated preschool teacher who brings a calm, loving presence to our Pōtiki space. Originally from Tonga, Faye draws on her rich cultural heritage to create a warm, family-centered environment where our youngest learners feel safe, cared for, and cherished. As a mother herself, she understands the deep trust families place in her and treats every child as if they were her own. With years of hands-on experience in early childhood education, Faye believes in responding gently to each baby's individual needs, supporting their development through meaningful connection, sensory play, and loving care.

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“‘Oku ‘ikai ke ke nofo tokotaha ‘i he tauhi ‘a e fānau.”
You do not raise a child alone.

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This Tongan proverb reflects Faye’s belief that nurturing young children is a collective effort — one rooted in love, respect, and connection.

As both a mother and a teacher, Aysha believes in creating a warm, gentle, and nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and respected. Her approach is centered on building strong, trusting relationships with each child, understanding that emotional security is key to their growth and development. She strives to meet each child where they are, offering guidance and support with patience and empathy. Through gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, Aysha empowers children to build their confidence, independence and sense of wonder. She views her role as not only an educator but also as a guide, offering love and care as children explore, take risks, and discover their unique potential.

Robyn is a dedicated and experienced part-time relief teacher with a strong background in Early Childhood Education. With many years in the field, Robyn brings a steady and consistent presence to the classroom and a good understanding of how young children learn and grow. She is a valued member of the teaching team every Wednesday, contributing her flexibility and dependability to support both our tamariki and kaiako alike. She loves her grandchildren more than anything and spends time with them when she is not at work with the children here at Te Papapa Preschool.