Our People

Emilee Dalton, Centre Manager
Emilee found her passion in working with children in the early childhood sector when she left school. Emilee holds a Bachelor of Education (Teaching) ECE, a Diploma of Teaching ECE and full teacher registration. As an experienced early childhood teacher with an interest in leading teams, Emilee joined Lollipops Petone in January 2015.
Emilee lives in Lower Hutt with her partner and young son Jack. She enjoys DIY around their home and spending time outdoors at local parks and the Hutt River with their dog. Emilee has an interest in travel, especially within Aotearoa and enjoys spending time at the mountains in winter.
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Lauren Shugg, Assistant Centre Manager & Team Leader - Kiwi Room
Lauren began working in early childhood education in 2003 and completed her Diploma of Teaching (ECE) in 2006. Lauren holds full teacher registration. Lauren joined Lollipops Petone in September 2013 and with her strength and passion for mentoring and leading teams Lauren moved into leadership.
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Nicole Hunt , Team Leader - Tui
Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Early childhood in April 2018 at Whitireia. Previous to this Nicole has had many years in swim teaching and nannying. Nicole now holds a full teacher's registration and with her passion, drive and strengths she moved into leadership.

Stacey Cox , Team Leader - Fantail
Growing up in a large family Stacey has always had younger siblings around, which created a passion for working with younger children. In high school Stacey completed a 6-month early childhood introductory course which reinforced her decision to follow her heart and enrol at Whitireia Polytech to gain a Nanny certificate.
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Sarah Magson, Team Leader - Kakapo
Sarah has always had a passion for early childhood education during her college years, volunteering at local early childhood centres as part of her college journey. Once Sarah left college, she started her Bachelor of Early Childhood Degree, completing her degree in 2013.
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