Phillipa - Team Leader, Qualified Registered Teacher
Kia Ora e te whānau , ko Phillipa Patea tōku ingoa
I have lived in Tauranga Moana for the past 23 years with my husband James and our three beautiful girls, Kiritiana, Mihingarangi and Waimarie.
From a young age I started to grow my roots in Early childhood as this was my mum and dads occupation and a few years later..... look where this passion has taken me today.
Kindness, Whanaungatanga, Fun & Respect are some of the key values I hold as a person. You will find me dancing, singing and having a bit of fun with the Tamariki and Kaiako on a daily basis.
I look forward to meeting you and your whānau and working alongside you as they grow and develop.
Poipoia te kakano kia puawai.
Brittany - Qualified Registered Teacher
Kia Ora! I'm Brittany, a fully registered early childhood teacher with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, graduating in 2013. As a mum to three wonderful kids, Mason, Aria, and Zack, I understand firsthand the important role we play in shaping children's development and fostering a lifelong passion for learning.
I was born in South Africa but have been in New Zealand since I was 6 years old, living in Tauranga most of my life, apart from 3 years in Christchurch where I studied. I enjoy art, outdoor adventures, and spending quality time with loved ones.
I believe in creating an environment that is both safe and stimulating for children. I'm committed to providing a space where they can freely explore, discover, and grow, fostering independence and helping them uncover their unique talents.
Learning should be engaging, exciting, and a journey we embark on together, nurturing each child's curiosity and potential along the way.
Auleen - Qualified Registered Teacher
My name is Auleen Kaur. I gained my ECE Degree from Open Polytechnic in 2017. I have been married to my husband Sukhjeet for 9 years. I have a daughter Mavleen who is three years old and comes to The Garden.
I started working at The Garden in 2023. Before that I have worked at various centres in Auckland, working with both children and babies. I believe in creating a beautiful environment for children which stimulates and nurtures a child’s natural curiosity through provocations, creativity and ritual-based environment.
I enjoy doing DIY work and spending time with my family and friends in my spare time!
Shathi - Teacher Support
I am Shathi Bishwash. I am from Bangladesh. I completed my graduation and postgraduation from Bangladesh. Hopefully soon I will study in ECE. I am a teacher support at The Garden ECE, Gate Pa. I am married. I have a precious family with my husband and baby daughter. I love to play with children and communicate with people. My favourite hobbies are painting, crafting and drawing.
Natalie - Teacher Support
Lynnette - Qualified Registered Teacher
Kia ora whānau,
Ko Lynnette tōku ingoa
Nō England, Scotland ōku tīpuna
Kei te noho au ki Greerton
I was born in New Zealand but spent many years living in Australia and in London. Both of my children were born in England and we returned to New Zealand when they were young. They grew up at The Mount, and after traveling for many years are now living in Hamilton and here in Tauranga. I am loving the new experience of being Grandma, or “Nannette”.
I have worked with infants and toddlers for many years and am passionate about ensuring our youngest tamariki have the best possible start in their learning journey. I believe that whanaungatanga provides the foundation for the trusting relationships that pēpi need to feel safe and loved, so they are able to play and drive their own learning.
I am excited to be working alongside the team here at The Garden Gate Pā as we build an environment full of wonder for tamariki to explore and learn together.
Ka whāngaia ka tupu ka puāwai
That which is nurtured grows and blossoms.
Sharlene - Qualified Registered Teacher
Minjuan (Sammi) - Qualified Registered Teacher
Hello, everyone! I'm Minjuan Wang, but you can call me Sammi. Originally from China, I've been living in New Zealand with my family for more than five years. During my free time, you'll often find me exploring new destinations, diving into a good book, or enjoying beachside adventures with our furry friend, Cooper. I completed my studies in the field of early childhood education at Toi-Ohomai and I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where tamariki feel valued and respected.
Samantha - Teacher in Training (ECE)
Kia ora! My name is Sammy, and I was born in Auckland, then grew up in Hamilton throughout primary school, and have been living in Tauranga since 2014. I have always had a soft spot for children growing up and always knew they are much more capable than people think, which brought me to studying my Bachelors of Teaching. At the moment I have had the opportunity to spend everyday in the pēpi room at The Garden, Gate Pā, with the beautiful tamariki. I am excited to continue supporting the future generation to grow and explore as individuals and help them to gain knowledge, skills and values. To give a little overview of who I am, I enjoy traveling, kayaking, music, summer time, the beach and spending time with my friends and whānau. I’m looking forward to meeting the future garden families!
Trinity - Teacher in Training (ECE)
Kia Ora! I’m Trinity, I was born in Tauranga, New Zealand where I was raised alongside four siblings.
In my spare time I love being outdoors, fishing, camping and hanging out with my whanāu.
I am currently in my first year of studying for my Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education, which has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I hope to use that passion to inspire, nurture and empower the young lives I have the privilege to teach everyday.
Tanisha - Chef and Support
My name is Tanisha and I am the centre cook. I previously worked as a cook in a rest home but after extending my family I took on the role as the centre cook at The Garden Tauranga.
I love what I do and enjoy watching all our children at The Garden grow, learn and thrive.
I have 2 children, a daughter aged 10 and a son aged 2 who is also thriving at The Garden. I love fishing and spending time with family.