Ngā Kaimahi | Our Staff
Where the Passion Begins
Jo Ashwell
Founder | Director
Nanny Jo is the heart and soul of Tamarau. Our kind but fearless director who governs with humility, kindness and a little steel
when required!
Chris Ashwell
Founder | Director
Papa Chris is the backbone of Tamarau. Quietly working behind the scenes, you will find him busy outside or in the shed tinkering and fixing broken toys and resources.
Gina Tahata
Business Administration Manager
Gina is behind the scenes, overseeing GMA and working alongside our Directors and Management, strengthening the vision and legacy her parents, Chris & Jo have built.
Christine Taare
Tumuaki
Tamarau is incredibly blessed to have Koka Christine at the helm of Tamarau. She has a passion for improving well-being and education for tamariki, and over 30 years' experience in the Early Childhood
Education Sector.
Wiki Spooner
Kaiako | Head Teacher
Koka Wiki is committed to helping children explore and learn in a hands-on environment. Nothing brings her more happiness than seeing the growth and evolution of the
many tamariki she has taught and cared for.
Marcia Maka
Kaiako | Lead Teacher
With a nurturing personality and hands-on approach towards learning, we are thrilled to have Koka Marcia as a part of our team. Her experience and commitment to childhood education is invaluable.
Tiana Spooner
Kaiako | Teacher
With a warm and bubbly nature, Koka Tiana is an amazing asset for Tamarau. Her warmth, creativity and unending patience, makes her a great colleague and a wonderful Kaiako!
Rāwinia Gerrard
Kaiako | Teacher
Koka Rāwinia has recently returned home from the mighty Waikato, bringing with her a wealth of pūkenga from her years of experience in Te Kōhanga Reo. Her ukulele skills are worthy of mention!
Tania Baker
Kaiako | Teacher
Koka Tania has been an integral part of Tamarau from the beginning. She resigned from her full-time role to focus on whānau.
We are so glad to still have her with us on a part-time basis.
Arahia Whanarere
Kaiāwhina | Support Staff
Koka Ari brings a special spark to our Centre. Adaptable and ready to help in any way she can, you may also catch a glimpse of her having races with our tamariki!
Hinetera Stewart
Kaiāwhina | Support Staff
With her soulful voice and delightful cooking, Kōkā Hine has a kete of skills that she shares so happily with us all, creating warmth and that homely belonging in our whare.
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Kaiāwhina | Support Staff
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Kaimahi | Administrator
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