Our People

Over the years Stacey has held various roles at Lollipops Petone and worked in other Evolve centres in the region.

Growing up in a large family Stacey has always had younger siblings around, which created a passion for working with younger children.
Stacey lives in Lower Hutt with her daughter Chloe. In their spare time, they love to be around family and make the most of learning and growing together.

Kay has many years’ experience working with young children and has been with Lollipops since it first opened in September 2012. Kay has had the privilege to work in the Kiwi Room, the Fantail Room, the Tui Room, and now the Kākāpō Room. Kay is passionate about teaching and believes in forming warm and caring relationships with children and their whānau. Kay believes that children learn through play and that they need opportunities for uninterrupted play as often as possible.

Originally from Nelson, Kay has lived in Lower Hutt for many years now. Kay lives with her husband and dog, Echo. Their two adult daughters have flown the nest. One lives in Auckland and the other in Lower Hutt. In her spare time, Kay enjoys reading, walking the dog, running, cycling, going to exercise classes, and spending time on her lifestyle block

Missy-Kate also has experience in childcare having worked for Kelly Club in Lower Hutt between 2018 -2019. Missy-Kate joined the Lollipops Petone team in May 2022.

Born and raised in Lower Hutt, Missy-Kate now lives in Wainuiomata with her husband and their two young children. In her spare time Missy-Kate enjoys painting, reading, and spending time with her whanau.

As a teacher, Liz previously spent time teaching infants and toddlers, and has now stepped into a 2IC role for Lollipops Petone. Liz believes family values and working with families is important. She is passionate about making learning fun for children, and ensuring they get the most out of their education and care, by expanding on their interests and supporting them in their journey.

Liz grew up in Wainuiomata and loves getting out and exploring the community and participating in outdoor adventures. Liz enjoys performing arts – dance, music and being creative. In her spare time you’ll find Liz visiting local parks, beaches, and making memories with her family, family time is very valuable to Liz.

Emma has a passion for nurturing our youngest Tamariki, she believes it is a privilege to work alongside them and to help them to ensure their greatest potential.

Having lived in both Nelson and Wellington, Emma now lives in Newlands with her cat, Luna. Emma enjoys crafting and being creative, travelling and exploring new places. In her spare time, you’ll find Emma scrapbooking, using her Cricut for craft, or going on road trips around Aotearoa.

Gemma has a passion for working with Tamariki and guiding them as they grow. Gemma isn’t afraid to get a bit mucky and is often found to be involved in a lot of the Fantail Room’s messy play activities.

Gemma lives local to Lollipops Petone and in her spare time enjoys going for walks along the beach and spending time with her niece and nephews.

Aula joined the team at Lollipops Petone in November 2020. Aula loves working with children and being able to support them to be inclusive and interact with other people who are different from them. Her philosophy focuses on children being creative and special in their own learning and provide a safe and an educational environment where they can share their ideas and express themselves.

Originally from Sydney, Aula moved to Wellington in 2012. At first the transition was challenging but after she settled in, she got accustomed to the special character of Wellington.

“One of the greatest joys in teaching is seeing the positive change in children’s lives”. Aula strives to achieve this through taking advantage of her approachable and empathetic nature.

Shareen is passionate about working with Tamariki, she enjoys watching their development as they work on new skills and ways to express themselves. Shareen has a very nurturing nature; our Tamariki are very comfortable to approach her in times when they need extra support.

Shareen lives in Lower Hutt with her husband, two daughters and her dad. They have a family dog, Whiskey, whom Shareen enjoys going for walks with. In her spare time Shareen enjoys exploring, going for bush walks, and cooking.

Anna was born and raised in Wellington. She grew up in Churton Park with her whanau, mum, dad, brother, sister, cat, and dog. Anna now lives in the heart of Wellington City with her flatmates and loves it. When Anna is not busy working you will most likely find her going on walks with her dog, in the kitchen baking, shopping, spending time with friends and family, and traveling.

Sara lives local with her partner and their three children. In her spare time Sara is a remarkable knitter and crocheter, often making clothing for her children.