Head Team Leader

I’m excited to be stepping into the role of Head Team Leader here at Rockmybaby® Havelock North. I first joined the Rockmybaby whānau in September 2023 as the Team Leader in the Koru Room and feel honoured to now support both the Koru and Mana Room teams in this leadership role.

I’m a fully qualified and registered Early Childhood Teacher with 19 years of experience in the sector — the majority of which has been spent working closely with under 2s. My passion lies in creating strong, respectful relationships with tamariki, whānau, and colleagues, and in nurturing open, honest communication. I love supporting children through their many milestones, celebrating their individuality, and helping them flourish along their learning journey.

Outside of the centre, I live in Crownthorpe with my partner Mike and our daughter Madi. I’m also proud to be a stepmum to two wonderful young women: Chontelle , who is studying Psychology in Wellington, and Katelyn who is studying Environmental Science and Astronomy in Auckland.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out at any time if you have questions or would like to kōrero about your child’s time with us — I’m always happy to help.

Arohanui,
Hayley x

Koru Team Leader

I’m a fully qualified and registered Early Childhood Teacher with a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE).

I’m passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young tamariki and feel privileged to support them as they grow, explore, and reach new milestones. My teaching philosophy is grounded in building strong, reciprocal relationships with tamariki, whānau, kaiako, and the wider community.

I love getting creative, exploring the arts, spending time in nature, and connecting with our local community. I believe there is something truly special about being part of a child’s early learning journey and watching their confidence and capabilities blossom.

Originally from Hawke’s Bay, I grew up in a farming community as part of a big, close-knit family. I now live with my partner on a sheep and beef farm in Maraekakaho. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with whānau and friends, helping out on the farm, heading to the beach, and soaking up the beautiful sunshine the Bay provides.

I look forward to continuing this journey with your whānau and supporting your tamariki to thrive.

Mana Team Leader

I’m proud to be one of the kaiako here at Rockmybaby® Havelock North.

I’ve grown up in Havelock North and feel privileged to now be supporting tamariki and their whānau in the very community that raised me. I’ve been working in early childhood education for over five years, and in 2022, I graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education). I’m currently provisionally registered and working towards becoming a fully registered teacher.

I’m passionate about forming strong, reciprocal relationships with tamariki and their whānau — relationships that are built on trust, respect, and genuine connection. I love being part of each child’s learning journey and supporting them to feel confident, capable, and valued.

Koru Room

I hold a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education and am also a proud mum to two energetic children who love keeping me outdoors and on the move! When I’m not teaching or spending time with my whānau, I enjoy playing netball and curling up with a good book.

I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the Rockmybaby® team and to be working alongside infants and toddlers — an age group I’m especially passionate about. I value respectful practice and take a child-led approach, allowing tamariki to grow, explore, and develop at their own pace.

Supporting social and emotional wellbeing is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. I enjoy role-modelling positive social interactions and helping children learn how to navigate friendships, communication, and collaboration. I also believe in the importance of safe risk-taking, and I’m passionate about giving children the opportunity to challenge themselves and build confidence in a supportive environment.

I look forward to getting to know you and your tamariki.

Cook and Support

I’m 25 years old and hold a degree in Music. Over the past few years, I’ve enjoyed a variety of rewarding roles — from working as a nanny to coordinating an after-school programme at Hereworth School. Most recently, I spent seven months in Invercargill as a caregiver in a rest home, which deepened my appreciation for nurturing care at all stages of life.

Now, I’m excited to bring my passion for people, creativity, and nourishing kai into my role as the centre cook here at Rockmybaby® Havelock North. I love creating wholesome, comforting meals that support the wellbeing of our tamariki and help fuel their learning and play.

In addition to preparing meals, I also enjoy spending time across all of our rooms — offering an extra pair of hands and supporting both kaiako and children wherever I’m needed.

Outside of work, you’ll often find me hiking, baking up a storm, or spending time with friends. I’m really looking forward to getting to know all the tamariki and whānau here at the centre.

Support both rooms

I hold a Master’s degree in Linguistics and have had the privilege of teaching in various countries. My whānau and I have recently relocated to Aotearoa, and I’m excited to be settling here with my husband — a lecturer at EIT — and our daughter.

I’m delighted to be part of the teaching team in the Koru Room, where I support our youngest tamariki at the very beginning of their learning journey.

As a teacher, I am committed to nurturing each child’s unique qualities and ensuring they feel seen, accepted, and valued. I place a strong emphasis on supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health, encouraging tamariki to build self-confidence and self-esteem. I believe in fostering creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking through meaningful play and exploration.

I look forward to getting to know you and your whānau, and to supporting your child as they learn, grow, and thrive in our care.

Mana Room