Our Team
Suitcase stories provides a unique way for communities to foster a more welcoming and inclusive environment for newcomers. Given we are all new to the Auranga community, we thought this would be a great way to introduce you to the members of our team.
Each staff member has shown 5 objects to share with you; these are objects that best introduce us and our journey through life, what is important to us and what forms our identity.
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
OUR TEACHERS
OUR SUPPORT STAFF
- This ceramic tile was a gift from my whānau and reminds me of the goodness the world.
- Connection to nature is really important to me. Short of packing a whole forest, this koru sculpture is small and light enough to fit in the pocket of my bag; based on the unfurling frond, symbolises new beginnings and growth.
- "You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose!" Dr Seuss. Running and hiking is a way I love to explore places and ideas!
- I came across the this bronze statue on my travels over twenty years ago. I carried it in my backpack to Timbuktu and back. It has journeyed with me from home to home. I love her expression of freedom and gratitude.
- I love my whānau and take my place as 'favourite Aunty" very seriously!
- Headphones - Music, Dance and The Arts are what ignites my internal fire!
- Family Photo - My whānau are my everything. I love them with all my heart.
- Puzzles - I revel in the face of any challenge and when not outside I need something to keep my brain busy.
- Sneakers - I enjoy being outside and connected with nature, you will most likely find me out walking or at the beach.
- World Map - I love to travel and seek adventure. Finding a new experience in each day.
My Australian passport reminds me of where I began, my love of travelling, and the sense of curiosity and adventure that still guides me.
I recharge by walking along Aotearoa’s wild west-coast black-sand beaches, enjoying the solitude, the wind, and the surf.
My Flox artwork, featuring Aotearoa’s beautiful manu—especially the lively piwakawaka—was a gift from a school that became like whānau during my twelve years there.
My dad’s bright yellow scout shirt from Australia, covered in badges he swapped and stitched on himself, is a taonga. It reflects his adventures and the spirit of exploring that my whaanau passed on to me.
Although I don’t get as much time as I’d like, I love cooking. When I can, I dive into my eight years’ worth of Donna Hay magazines, planning menus to share with friends.
This is my favorite family picture because it brings back memories of my first walk with my family at the Harbour Bridge, where we enjoyed the beauty of the “City of Sails.”
This is the picture of the “Mool Mantra.” The term “mūl” means “root, main,” or “fundamental,” making the Mūl Mantar the “root formula” or core statement of Sikhism. It reflects my belief in my religion, so I always keep it with me.
I always wear my silver bracelet with beads, known as a simrana. It symbolizes my dedication to God and being part of the Khalsa Panth in Sikhism, giving me strength to remain brave and fearless during challenging times.
I enjoy wearing my smartwatch all the time because it makes my life easier and helps keep me healthy by tracking my steps, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
I can't live without my phone because it holds my driver's license, which is essential for me to have with me at all times. I also enjoy taking photos and videos of every joyful moment on my phone and looking back at them whenever I'm feeling sad or down.
Family: My family is the most important part of my life because they are always there to support me no matter what. They help me through difficult times and celebrate with me during my happiest moments. My family has taught me important values such as kindness, respect and responsibility. I am grateful for them because they shape who I am and encourage me to become the best version of myself.
My rosary: My faith has been my bedrock ever since my childhood and continues to remain so till today. My rosary symbolises my faith and it is my daily source of strength. I feel closer to God and an inner sense of peace when I pray the rosary. My rosary is an integral part of my life and it reminds me to live with faith and purpose.
My diary: I have always used a diary or a pocket book: to plan an event or a trip; to prepare for an exam; to write poetry; or simply to pen down my feelings. This habit has enabled me to reminisce about the past, to fondly remember my good times and to visualise how I have grown over the years. It has been responsible for me becoming an organised, far-sighted person.
Books: “I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.” (Robert Louis Stevenson). Books have always played a prominent role in my life: they are a source of wisdom, learning, inspiration, imagination and pure delight to me. They motivate me to explore new ideas and experience worlds I might never see otherwise.
Music: Music is my mood, my memory and my motivation. It helps me express how I feel when words are not enough. Different songs remind me of different phases in my life and, more importantly, the people I care about. I enjoy singing and playing the piano because music soothes me and uplifts my mood.
1. Family - family is incredibly important to me. I am a sister, a daughter and most importantly, a mother. This is a photo of me and my nine year old son.
2. Travel - I am an explorer and love a good adventure! I love to see what our country and the world has to offer. I have spent 3 years living in Hong Kong, mainland China and the United States. This photo represents my travels so far - I collect fridge magnets from every country I visit. Next on my travel list? To see the Northern Lights!
3. Books - I’ve never met a bookshop I didn’t like! Books open our minds to new ideas and new worlds and I love nothing more than indulging myself in a good plot. In another life I think I would’ve been a bookstore owner!
4. Plants and gardening - I love to have lots of life around me, both at home and at work. I can often be found in my own garden at home, or the next best thing - the local garden centre!
5. The beach - I grew up near the ocean and my most enduring childhood memories involve the beach or the sea. I’m happiest when I can dig my toes into the sand and listen to the sound of the waves ebb and flow.
Family Photo - In the photo is me, my husband and our 3 sons - Andy 17, Adiel 14 and Ayden 7. My family is my greatest joy and unwavering source of support. I was born in Zambia in a family of 6 girls and 2 boys.
Story Reading & Music - Reading stories while listening to music inspires my creativity and calmness. I am a fan of fairytale stories and can grab as many as life offers. My reading was nurtured by my father who was a grade one teacher for more than 20 years. My father always said, "you can reach any country via reading". To date, he calls to check if I still read.
Farming - I grew up in a farming area and till now, crops bring joy and assurance for a better tomorrow. Farming teaches me patience and care, qualities I bring into nurturing young learners. Just like the different colours in the corn photo is how I think people, especially children, are unique and great in their own way. I also enjoy cooking and eating corn and pumpkins which are part of my traditional food.
Nature Walks - Nature walks help me reflect, recharge, and stay grounded in this life's journey as a mother, wife, sister and teacher. I enjoy going out with friends and family in thick forests just to relax and appreciate nature. This sparks a sense of conservation of my environment as home to millions of animals.
Netball/Sports - Playing netball builds my physical strength and energizes me, just perfect to intergrate with my sons when it comes to sports updates, importance of a physical fitness and strength family show off time.
Passport cover - Reminds me of all the different places I've visited. I love learning about new cultures and meeting new people from different walks of life.
Running shoes - I am on a running journey training for a marathon, my shoes remind me to keep going, even when things feel tough. It's all about determination - just like learning!
The sea - I love being in the sea - diving and swimming with beautiful sea creatures helps me feel calm and free. Nature teaches us a lot if we stop and look.
Family - This is a photo that reminds me of my family and friends. They're the people who keep me grounded, make me laugh, and support me no matter where I am in the world. Even when I move somewhere new, I always carry a piece of them with me.
Nails - One thing you'll quickly learn about me is that I always have my nails done. Whether it's a soft pastel shade, a bold pop of colour, or a fun design with glitter, swirls, or flowers - my nails are never plain.
My Whānau (My Family): “Family is not an important thing. It's everything.” I cherish my amazing family and we spend a lot of time together, especially while our girls are young and growing up.
My Shoes: Whether it be running shoes, walking shoes or sports shoes, being active is important to me and has been for most of my life. “I think the most important thing is to keep active and to hope that your mind stays active.”.
LEGO and STAR WARS: "With a bucket of Lego, you can tell any story. You can build an airplane or a dragon or a pirate ship - it's whatever you can imagine." I am a LEGO and STAR WARS nerd. It's a great way to spend my free time!
My Kindle: "The cool thing about reading is that when you read a short story or you read something that takes your mind and expands where your thoughts can go, that's powerful." I enjoy reading and having a kindle means I can have a lot of books to choose from!
My Airpods - "One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say" I use my airpods to listen to podcasts, music and audio books, a great way to pass time.
Family - the most important people in my life! We are in different countries around the world so it is really special when we are all together.
The sea - If there’s sea nearby, you will find me there. I love how the rhythm of the waves calms me and the size of the ocean puts everything into perspective. This photo was taken in Cornwall in the UK and includes another favourite - sunsets!
Music - I can’t go for long without listening to music. It has always been a massive part of my life and you will find me listening to something different depending on my mood.
Adventure - exploring new places with my partner and our two children is something we really enjoy doing together. New Zealand will be our biggest adventure yet!
Books - can take you to places you’ve never been. I love curling up with a good book, but I am also guilty of buying far too many interesting children’s books!
- Frame of one of my favourite Bible verses. In every circumstance my source of strength and help comes from my faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Photos of my family. As well as being a wife, a mother, I am also a daughter, sister and aunty to my beautiful extended family. The love & support of a whanau is life’s greatest blessings.
- My Culture: I’m very proud of my Samoan/Chinese heritage. The foundation upon which I build my identity.
- Books: I love reading books about real heroes - inspirational people who overcome challenges & are great role models for anyone. Plus re-reading childhood favourites is also a real joy of mine!
- Lover of Music: I enjoy listening to all kinds of music especially the ‘oldies but goodies’ sounds! It instantly changes your mood & it’s a great stress reliever!
Whānau - my now teenage children Aryan & Sophia, and partner Dion. My favourite people and my reason for everything. Dion and I love adventuring in the outdoors and we’re all pretty active. I can’t fit them all here but my late Mum & Dad also deserve a mention and both inform my teaching and what I bring to the world.
My Pounamu - super special and gifted in Orokawa bay by Dion. Already lost in Hahei and made her way back to me, confirming our bond! Wearing this helps me feel grounded and protected.
My Maton guitar, bought in my early 20’s - best musical investment ever! This has played many a gig, written so many songs with me, had a few knocks, journeyed with me many years, busked with me on the streets of Sydney, Ohakune, Auckland, Kapa haka shows and quite a few classrooms too.
‘The Great Southern Timekeeper’ - the installation that marks the beginning of Dion and my homeownership journey together. An Alistair Welch piece found in Castlepoint while on one of our adventures. With old gold watches set in resin on the wings, this adorns the side of our house.
Rhoda - our beloved childhood dog. Painted in 1991 in oil, set infront of our view at Pahoia by my Grandma, Rae Wilton. She has captured her face perfectly & Matakana Island is in the background. This is one of many of Grandma’s paintings I steward, and one of my most treasured family heirlooms, reminding me both of that lovely dog, and of spending long holiday hours with Grandma in their caravan in Hawera, painting, talking, singing and being silly in the sun.
My tatoos represent who I am. They tell a story of my Māori, Cook Island, and Samoan identity, my culture, and most importantly, my family. Each one carries meaning and reminds me of the people, places, and values that have shaped me.
My family are my everything. They are my biggest motivation, my strongest support, and the reason I continue to work hard and give my best in everything I do.
My newest love will be my grandchild, due in 2026. Our whānau is very excited to begin this new chapter, and we are already looking forward to the joy, love, and special memories this little blessing will bring.
One of my favourite places in the world is Manase, a beautiful little village in Savai'i, Samoa. In Manase, there is a special place called Tanu Beach Fales, which is owned by my husband's family. It is my favourite place to holiday because it is peaceful, welcoming, and filled with family, culture, and connection.
I have always loved sport. While I may not play as much as I used to, I still enjoy being involved through coaching, supporting others, and watching sport on the weekends, whether that is live or on TV. Sport had always been a big part of my life.
Family Photo - My whānau are my heart. I carry them with me always, even from across the ocean. Growing up in the Philippines shaped who I am and continues to ground me in everything I do.
Stingray Koru Necklace. The stingray is a kaitiaki - a guardian. This was gifted to me by a close friend in Mangawhai and I wear it as a reminder that I am always growing, always at the start of something new.
Pikorua Necklace - This double twist reminds me of the connections that matter most, between people, between families, across communities. It represents the relationships I carry with me wherever I go.
The Colour Monster - This book sits on my shelf because it reminds me that emotions are real and it is okay to feel them all. Like the monster in the story, I sometimes need to pause, sort through what I am feeling, and find my balance again. It reminds me to check in with myself first - because when I show up settled and whole, I show up better for everyone around me.
Fridge Magnets - Every magnet is a story. I have travelled to many places and met people from different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Each one has changed how I see the world and I bring that curiosity into everything I do.
Whānau: My husband Aaren, dog Reyna, and 2 cats Zina and Zander are everything to me. We are small, but our love is abundant!
Mexican Heritage: I am proud of my Mexican heritage and how it has shaped my identity. From the food to the art, I look forward to sharing it with my tamariki.
The Arts: I love music, art and live performances! You can often catch me at a concert, museum, or theatre.
Cozy Activities: I love cozy activities! Some of my favourites include crocheting, painting, reading, cultivating my indoor plant collection, and playing video games.
Travel: I love to explore and go on new adventures. The beach and the mountains are some of my favourite places. My most recent trip to Japan was tons of fun!
Plane tickets to New Zealand - These tickets represent moving to New Zealand with my family and starting a new chapter together. They remind me of taking a leap into the unknown, building new roots, and creating a future for my family.
The little house (Bothy) - This is a precious memory from Scotland, it reminds me of where my love for travel and adventure first began. It represents curiosity, exploration, and making memories in new places.
Plush fox (Felix) - Felix has been with me since the beginning of my teaching journey and has become part of my classroom. He represents comfort, creativity, and the fun I try to bring into learning every day.
My classroom logo - Content Creator: represents my love for teaching and creativity, and the fun I try to bring into learning every day.
Gardening - (this is a picture in the future), it reflects my love for being outdoors and spending time in nature. It brings me peace, helps me slow down, and reminds me of my dream to one day build a beautiful garden of my own.
A clock – It represents how I’ve come to really value my time. How I choose to spend it, and who I spend it with, truly matters to me.
A photo of the Emerald Lakes – One of my biggest highlights from completing the Tongariro Crossing. Fun and challenging with lots of lessons that can be framed to everyday life.
Flowers – I love plants and flowers! Their beauty reminds me of loved ones close to my heart.
Life long learner – I see myself as a lifelong learner growing through evaluated experiences and grateful for every season in life.
A netball hoop – Netball is my favourite sport. I also enjoy a good board/ card game, getting creative with arts and crafts, and exploring new places.
Family - This is a photo of my family. Family is the most important part of my life and where I draw my love and strength from.
Gardening - Gardening is my way to relax and I find it very grounding. Some of my plants have been grown from cuttings off my grandparents plants, so my gardens are very special to me.
Charm bracelet - I am very rarely seen without my bracelets. Each charm on my bracelet has been given to me or symbolize someone. So when I wear it I feel as though I have my loved ones with me.
Music - although I can not sing or dance too well haha. Music is a big part of mine and my families life. We always have Music playing when ever we can. Music is very therapeutic.
Django and walks. This is my Dog Django, he is my walking buddy. I love getting out, clearing my head, getting fresh air and having a nice big walk with him.
I find solace in reading a good book. It is something I have learned from my father, and I made sure to lead my daughter to do the same because a child who reads will be an adult who thinks.
I find crystals and their metaphysical properties interesting thus leading to a small collection of these pretty little things.
My family is everything especially at a time when all we have is each other.
We have two dogs back at home in the Philippines named Sandy and Hero. They are the best non-human companions anyone could ever have.
Listening to music of any genre has a soothing effect on me, and it helps me control my emotions.
My husband Craig, our kids and wider whānau are my gel, they keep me grounded. Being the youngest of 21 tamariki from by whāngai whaanau and 1 of 8 from my biological whaanau, whaanaungatanga is the key.
My down times. I like walks along the beach with Craig and our kuri, in the summer, or weaving mindfully in the corner of my whare.
Te reo is the journey I am on now. My passion is to teach whaanau to weave.
Enjoying a good kai of what ever it is yummy.
League, softball and football are my weekend favourites. I play softball in the summer and waking up on a cold winter Sunday morning to watch my two oldest girls play soccer with their club in Pukekohe. Supporting the Wahs all through their season winning or losing.
Faith - This cross was a gift for my husband and I that became my favourite reminder of my ongoing faith journey, a symbol of perseverance and gratitude.
Tūrangawaewae - My home away from home, a special place in the Hokianga rohe. It's where I feel grounded, connected and proud of where I come from in the Far North.
Hauora - Oranga is important to me, and I express it through movement by pushing my physical and mental strength in CrossFit training and walking.
Taiao - Being outdoors on our whenua is where you'll find me, taking in the lush scenery, spotting native bird life, and enjoying the beauty that surrounds us.
Whānau - A photo taken the day my husband and I eloped. marking a very special time of celebration.
My family. These humans complete me as a whole, they are the loves of my life and the reason for my existence.
My Kainga. No better saying than "There's no place like home". This is mine; a place where all the worries in the world disappear and I am at my most happiest.
He Wahine Māori Ahau. He Uri tenei no Hokianga, no Te Tai Tokerau, no Te Rarawa.
Music Lover. Whether I'm happy or sad, music just puts me in my happy place. My favourite you ask? MOTOWN all the way!!
Kina. I am a HUGE LOVER of these spiky gold goodness. I would pretty much do anything (and I mean anything..) to get my hands on these. My absolute all time fave.
Sewing Kit - I love to sew my own clothes and the process of making something from scratch. I find it incredibly rewarding to come up with an idea and to make that vision come to life.
Notebooks- Writing is one of my passions, I enjoy creating stories and playing with words. Writing down my thoughts and feelings helps me to come up with solutions and understand myself better.
Teddy- This is Teddy, he is my most precious possession and was the only thing apart from my handbag that I took with me when having to escape a house fire. I have had him since the day I was born and he has been so well loved he is missing fur and stuffing. He represents my love for my whānau and the connection I have to my childhood.
Gumboots- Great for going on long walks around the farm I live on. I love being able to walk around and visit all the different animals, to look at the beauty of plants and trees and to feel connected to the natural world.
A Stack of Books- I can never just stick to one at a time, I have to have several on the go! Reading is my happy place, I love to read fiction to experience life from different perspectives and non-fiction to learn about our world.
I love music! — especially playing piano and guitar for loved ones and myself. It’s how I express different chapters of my life. Our over than a century-old piano still carries stories, and teaching piano in my free time brings me joy.
This sunset was captured during one of my runs. Running beneath skies like this helps me stay grounded, breathe deeply, and appreciate life’s daily gifts.
My favorite object is a notebook—perfect for journaling, poetry, and tracking goals. Writing has also fueled my love for languages, and I’ve filled many notebooks along the way.
After a family trip, I caught the travel bug! Exploring new places opened my eyes to diverse cultures and perspectives. Airports remind me that everyone’s on their own adventure, and I hope to keep discovering more of the world.
My family and I are very close, and beach trips are our tradition. Each year we road trip to a chosen spot, soaking in the waves, swimming in clear waters, and cherishing time together—moments I truly treasure.
My Son - My purpose in life since his birth has been to be the Father that guides him to be the best version of himself. To be not afraid to learn from the challenges of what life puts in front of him. To be authentic, loving, honest and open.
Chasing Rainbows - Nature is my outlook, my teacher. I live off grid and prefer a simple go with the flow lifestyle.
Mantra - Light is born in the courage of Darkness. I have a passion as an Energy Field Practitioner guiding anyone who feels the calling to look within to seek wisdom and purpose in life.
Hockey - Played this sport for 43 years and still enjoy the team values and camaraderie. It keeps me fit and I also coach functional fitness at all ages.
Geometry - The language of the universe to me is geometry and music. I enjoy expressive dance, singing and playing guitar. Im also a DJ of 26 years and counting.
TERM DATES 2026
Term 1: Feb 2 - April 2
Term 2: April 20 - July 3
Term 3: July 20 - Sept 25
Term 4: Oct 12 - Dec 16
OFFICE HOURS 2026
Term Time: 8am - 3pm, Monday - Friday
CLOSED during public and school holidays
CONTACT US
Ngākōroa School
1 Rorotu Ave, Karaka Papakura 2113
Phone: 09 553 7040
hello@ngakoroa.school.nz