“I have been in Early Childhood Education for nearly 17 years, in various

roles as a teacher, head teacher, and as a Centre Manager on the Coast. During this time, I have been privileged to work alongside incredibly passionate and dedicated people who have inspired me daily. For the past 11 years, I have called the Coast home, building strong connections within our community. My approach to teaching and leadership is centered on fostering collaborative relationships and creating positive team culture that benefits the learning and care of our tamariki. I believe that when relationships are at the heart of teaching practice, incredible learning opportunities unfold.”

“Born and raised on the Hibiscus Coast, it feels like a dream come true to be a co-owner of a local Early Childhood centre that is only minutes away from our front door step. With over 8 years of experience in the ECE sector, I have worked in a variety of different roles, which has ranged from teaching in classrooms with babies and toddlers to supporting centres with their daily operational and marketing needs. As a parent myself and someone who has always been interested in child development, I am deeply passionate about following respectful practices to approach the unique ages and stages that children go through in their early years of life. “

“I live with my wife Armelyn in Red Beach and have lived

on the Hibiscus Coast for more than 20 years and been involved in Early Childhood Education for over 14 years. I am also involved in a number of other businesses but Early Childhood remains a true passion and the thing I enjoy most being involved in, mainly because of the wonderful people involved, the children and their whanau and the teachers.”

“Hello, I am Megan, the Centre Manager here at The Coastal Cove. I love

to cook, explore interior design, and spend quality time with my husband, friends, and family (and of course with my gorgeous fur babies, Reef and Coco). I have worked as a teacher on the floor in early childhood education for seven years, as well as one year in primary school. I am loving this new opportunity in management. I absolutely love what I do and feel so lucky to work alongside such an incredible group of kaiako. I am deeply passionate about the environment and always strive to create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and nurturing for our tamariki, whānau, and teaching team. I believe in fostering an environment where the foundation is built on kindness, care and of course a lot of fun!”

“Kia ora! I’m Niña, originally from the Philippines. Cooking is my passion, and I love preparing healthy, yummy kai that helps our tamariki grow strong and happy. Since moving to New Zealand, I’ve worked in retail and hospitality and completed cooking courses that supported my journey to becoming a centre cook. I truly enjoy being part of the children’s day, seeing their smiles as they enjoy their meals and knowing the food I prepare supports their learning, wellbeing, and development.”

“Hi, I’m Amber! I’m a relief teacher and soon to be working 4 days at TCC - I can’t wait! I am a mum of two little ones, so I know how important it is for kids to feel safe and settled. I’m a big fan of beach days, fresh air, and a bit of fun, and I love bringing that relaxed, playful energy into my time with the children at The Coastal Cove. I look forward to seeing you all around.”

“Hi, I'm Danielle. I have been working as an ECE Teacher in the babies room since 2016. I live with my partner Connor and our three beautiful children. In our spare time we love visiting beaches, parks and going for walks! I am passionate about caring for our youngest tamariki, providing a nurturing environment with quality care and interactions. I value strong, trusting relationships, ensuring our children feel loved, safe, and confident to explore and express themselves freely.”

“Kia ora, my name is Jessi, I’m a newly qualified teacher with over ten years of experience in early childhood education. I am especially passionate about supporting our youngest learners and creating meaningful learning experiences inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.

Building strong, trusting relationships with tamariki and their whānau is at the heart of my practice. I strive to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and supported to grow in confidence and explore the world around them.

Outside of teaching, I live on the Hibiscus Coast and enjoy camping, exploring new places, and spending time with my whānau and friends.”

“Hi I'm Karyn, my partner and I have 3 children and 5 beautiful grandchildren. I love walking and reading. I have worked in ECE for 30 years. I believe that all children should be cared for the same way that we would care for our own children. I believe that all tamariki should be happy, feel safe and loved in their ECE centre.”

“Kia ora! My name is Rafaella, and I am 31 years old. I am from Brazil, but I have lived in New Zealand for 10 years. I have two kiddies (Enzo and Zoe) with my partner Aiden. We love them to bits!!

Working with children has always been a passion for me - my mum actually owns a beautiful ece centre in Brazil, so I have been surrounded by the way of early childhood from a very young age. I have developed a deep appreciation for supporting children’s learning and development.

I believe every child is unique and should be treated with respect, care, and kindness. I love building positive relationships with children and their families and creating a warm, welcoming environment where every child can thrive.

I love The Coastal Cove way and am so excited for what is ahead for us here!”

“Hi, I’m Chantelle, or Shonny as those closest to me call me, I have four beautiful children, ranging from 25-10. Born and breed Coastie, With a love for our beaches and lifestyle. My husband and I own a small business in red beach and I work part time at our gorgeous daycare. I enjoy my time with all your gorgeous tamariki, getting to know all their personalities and being apart of their growth and learning. I feel it’s a privilege to share this journey with all the families, and make sure they know that their beautiful children, are safe and loved”

“Hi, I’m Jess!

I’ve grown up by the coast and feel so lucky to live in such a cool place. My husband Marc and I have a two-year-old daughter, Lucia, and a Staffy called Lola. I love spending my weekends with friends and family. You’ll usually find me at the beach or out exploring new places.

I’ve worked with children since leaving school and have been in Early Childhood Education for 10 years, including five as a qualified teacher. I love supporting and learning alongside tamariki—it’s such a privilege.

I’m so grateful to be part of the TCC whānau!

“Kia ora, I’m Anna. I’m excited to be starting my journey in Early Childhood Education at The Coastal Cove. I have a big love for fun, creativity, and imaginative play, and I believe these early years should be filled with joy and discovery. I’m passionate about creating a nurturing space where children feel confident to explore, create, and let their imaginations shine. I’m so excited to grow alongside our tamariki and be part of their early learning journey.”

“Hi, I'm Demi. I live in Manly with my partner and our two year old son, Malakai.

I am so happy to be back in early childhood education and have loved being part of The Coastal Cove team.

I bring a caring, nurturing nature and am passionate about creating a safe, welcoming environment where every child feels valued and at home. I believe children thrive when they are given endless opportunities to explore, learn, and grow in confidence. My passion is creating a space where children feel secure and supported every day - a home away from home.”

“Hi, I'm Mandy. I have been part of children's learning journeys for over 10 years, and I am passionate about their growth and development, especially their emotional resilience. Children's self-identity is a huge protective factor for them, so that is a high priority for me. I have been with my husband for 24 years, we have three beautiful children, two goofball dogs, and a neurotic cat. Life is good.”

“I am Cheryl and I live in Torbay with my partner, my plants and my garden. I enjoy spending time with my whānau and friends, going on adventures, and enjoying music and good books. My teaching pedagogy is based on the values of respect, nurture and kindness and my practice is inspired by the principles and practices of the Pikler approach. It brings me joy to work with our tamariki and whānau to help everyone thrive at The Coastal Cove.”

“Hi everyone! I'm Lucy, I moved to New Zealand with my boyfriend a year ago and have absolutely fallen in love with the Kiwi way of life.

Although I am new to early childhood, I have always had a genuine passion for working with children. I love building positive relationships and creating a warm and caring environment. I have loved being part of The Coastal Cove team and have already built some beautiful relationships with the children. It has been so special watching their confidence grow, supporting their learning, and getting to know each of their little personalities.”