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.

Koru Room

Kia ora, I’m Trinity!

Growing up surrounded by Hawke’s Bay’s beautiful landscapes sparked my love for learning through exploration—a love I now get to share with my own child and the tamariki I teach.

My teaching philosophy centres on building strong, respectful relationships with children and their whānau. I aim to create a space where both tamariki and their families feel safe, supported, and nurtured. Alongside this I love getting creative and making the most of the simple resources around us that provide endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and learning.

My partner and I have recently had a gorgeous little boy and between the family time spend our free moments renovating our first home. If I’m not on the end of a hammer you’ll find me with my head in a book, completing the final part of my teaching qualification. After several years in teaching and a short break, I’m thrilled to be back at Rock My Baby, doing what I love most.

I feel privileged to be part of your journey and look forward to meeting you. 

Mana Room

Kia ora, my name is Malki.

I am a passionate early childhood teacher who believes every child is capable in their own unique way.

I love the positive energy children bring and believe that when we truly understand a child and meet them at their level, learning happens naturally.

I see teaching as a mirror - the care, respect, and positivity we give to children is reflected back through their confidence and joy.

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.

Kia Ora koutou, ko Millie Ormond toku ingoa.

I’m a Hawke’s Bay born mum of four boys, who have nearly all flown our nest! I am a carer and educator of young people of over twenty years, across early childhood, primary, Montessori, ESOL and Intermediate. I have worked with children and young people in America, Japan and Aotearoa. Building warm, safe, respectful and fun relationships is the heart of my teaching philosophy! I aim to nurture each child and whanau as the treasure they are, hoping to instil a love of learning and joy for life! Some of my personal favourite lenses to teach through are music, cooking, and gardening and I have a real love of coaching positive and reciprocal friendships amongst little ones. I look forward to working with you to ensure your child’s early learning journey is a wonderful one.

Mana Room

John O’Herlihy has been an early childhood teacher for over a decade and brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and enthusiasm to his teaching.

He is incredibly passionate about music, sport, and art, believing these are powerful ways for children to express themselves, build confidence, and explore new interests.

John values creating a supportive and engaging environment where children feel encouraged to learn, grow, and discover their unique strengths.

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.