Our Super Team
Executive Leadership
Mr Gareth Cunliffe
Principal
Kia ora koutou,
It is an absolute privilege to serve as Principal of Otonga School – Te Kura o Tihiōtonga. I am deeply passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of our tamariki and their whānau, and I feel incredibly proud to lead a school with such a strong sense of community, purpose, and heart.
Originally from South Africa, I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand 20 years ago. I’m married to Bernadette, and we have two sons who were past students of Otonga School. My teaching career has taken me across South Africa, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, the USA, and New Zealand, giving me 28 years of experience – mainly in the primary school sector.
Throughout my journey, I have held a range of leadership roles and developed a strong belief in the power of connection, innovation, and purposeful change. I am committed to fostering a happy, inclusive, and engaged school community where every child is seen, known, valued, and supported to thrive.
At Te Kura o Tihiōtonga, learning is fun, meaningful, and inspiring. We place great importance on the joy of play, curiosity, and discovery – creating a place where students and teachers thrive, grow, and truly enjoy their journey.
Ngā mihi nui,
Gareth Cunliffe
Whaea Arihi Harvey
Assistant Principal
Ako Kāhu Year 6 Leader
ASSISTANT Principal
Arihi Harvey
Ko Tarawera, Wahanga me Ruawahia ngā maunga
Ko Tarawera te moana
Ko Te Pakira te marae
Ko Wahiao te tipuna whare
Ko Te Rau Aroha te wharekai
Ko Tuhourangi/Ngāti Wahiao ngā hapū
Ko Te Arawa te waka
Ko Makiha tōku whānau
Ko Arihi tōku ingoa
Tēnā ra tātou katoa, e mihi ana ki a koutou. I am excited to belong
to an amazing school with amazing staff and tamariki. Hoake mahi tātou
mo o tātou tamariki –
Let’s work together for our children.
Mr Neil Carrington
Assistant Principal
Ako Kārearea Year 5 Leader
ASSISTANT Principal
Neil Carrington
It has been a joy and honour to have been part of the Te kura o Tihiōtonga community for a number of years, during which time I have facilitated learning at every year level. As Assistant Principal I feel privileged to work with and support all our tāmariki, staff and whānau to have positive; relationships, experiences and outcomes in an enjoyable and rewarding environment.
Originally from England. I have been in New Zealand for nearly eighteen years. Since being here I have been involved in a variety of volunteer roles, mainly in sports, local theatre, Rotorua Accelerando Programme and other community projects. I am married to Liz and we have four girls, who all attended our kura, and we have two energetic dogs and six lively chooks.
Teachers – Ako Tūī Year 1
Mrs Bernadette Cunliffe
Ako Tūī Year 1 Leader
Rm 16
AKO TUI Year 1
Bernadette Cunliffe (Ako Leader) Rm 16
Kia ora, I have been teaching for 26 years in a range of schools in different countries. My teaching philosophy is to see happy and engaged children who want to come to school to be the best that they can be. Learning something new everyday, in a learning environment rich with curiosity and creativity.
I encourage independent thinkers and problem solvers.
I am a Mum to two gorgeous sons and I am married to Mr Cunliffe who loves being the Principal of our fabulous school.
We have quite a few cats that make our home a purrfect place to live. I love being a teacher at Otonga Primary School.
Mrs Emma Milner
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 5
AKO TUI Year 1
Emma Milner Rm 5
Kia ora koutou!
I’ve been a teacher for 13 years working in many settings with ages 4 all the way up to adults, beginning in the UK which is where I’m from originally. I believe that primary school can be a magical time for children and I strive to make children’s learning fun and engaging to create a love of learning that lasts!
I live in Rotorua with my husband Stephen, son Eddie and our funny little dog Bisto. We love camping and outdoor adventures. I also love to draw and paint, as well as enjoying anything history related.
I’m super excited to be joining Te Kura ō Tihiōtonga team!
Whaea Adelle Porteous
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 6
AKO TUI Year 1
Adelle Porteous Rm 6
Ko Whaea Adelle toku ingoa. I was born and raised in Rotorua but only just started teaching a few years ago. I previously worked as a district manager, sewer, retail supervisor and Mum (still ongoing). Then while working as a primary school learning assistant decided teaching was where my heart lay, and began studying. I love being a part of this amazing community.
I live close by with my husband Steve, and our children James, Sophie and Travis. We also have 2 cats Luna and Buddy.
I love baking, crafts and everything to do with the forests and waterfalls.
Whaea Wendy Clarke
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 7
AKO TUI Year 1
Wendy Clarke Room 7
I have been teaching for 12 years in ECE and have now begun to explore working in the Primary School sector.
I come from an outdoor background having worked in outdoor education/tourism for 9 years prior to me starting my family and beginning my teacher training. My current outdoor passion is running, and I love to enter a few big events each year to test the limits and to help keep me motivated to get out there in all weather.
I grew up in Timaru but have now been living in Rotorua since 2002 when I moved here for a whitewater rafting job. I now live in Ngongotahā with my husband Glen, my daughter Emlyn and my son Connell.
Mrs Maddy Mill
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 8
AKO TUI Year 1
Mrs Maddy Mill Rm 8
Kia ora, my name is Maddy Mill. I started my teaching journey in Auckland in 2017, before my husband Callum and I moved down to Rotorua to build our first home together a few years later.
I started teaching at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga in 2022, before our son Jasper was born in mid 2023, and I can’t wait to return. In our spare time you will find us on a walk locally with our Border Collie Bodhi, or heading out on an adventure exploring more of our beautiful country.
I am drawn to the approach of a learning through play curriculum, and have seen first hand how it helps to foster lifelong, creative, problem solvers. I look forward to getting to know the tamariki, and working alongside the Otonga super team again!
Whaea Sarah Price
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 8
AKO TUI Year 1
Sarah Price Rm 8
I have two wonderful children Caleb (who is currently studying at Auckland University) and Renee who is in year 11 at Lakes High. I have been teaching for many years in and around Rotorua and am excited to be returning to Otonga this year.
Whaea Liv Robinson
Ako Tūī Year 1
Rm 8.5
AKO TUI Year 1
Liv Robinson Rm 8.5
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Ko Olivia tōku ingoa (Whaea Liv).
I am very excited to be joining the Ako Tūī Team at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga this year.
I was born and raised in Rotorua and live just down the road with my son, Cooper, who is almost two, and my partner, who is a former student of Te Kura o Tihiōtonga, making it extra special to now be part of this kura.
I enjoy creating fun, hands on, and inclusive learning environments where tamariki feel safe, supported, and excited to come to school and be curious each day.
I look forward to getting to know our tamariki and whānau, building strong relationships, and sharing a wonderful time of learning together.
Ngā mihi nui,
Whaea Liv
Teachers – Ako Kiwi Year 2
Mrs Amanda Jeffery
Ako Kiwi Year 2 Leader
Rm 15
AKO KIWI Year 2
Amanda Jeffery (Ako Leader) Rm 15
I have been a teacher at Otonga School for over 15 years and over that time I have enjoyed teaching all year levels. I have also been involved in leading initiatives to promote environmental sustainability within the school. I believe that school should be an enjoyable experience for children and I strive to provide a rich learning environment to ensure students thrive to their full potential.
Whaea Shirl Hudson
Ako Kiwi Year 2
Rm 9
AKO KIWI Year 2
Shirley Hudson Rm 9
Kia ora koutou, ko Shirley tōku ingoa, or Whaea Shirl.
I live in Ngākuru with my two sons, our kuri and 2 cats. My teaching philosophy focuses on crafting a safe, fun, and enriching learning environment where students can thrive. I aim to ensure every student leaves the classroom having accomplished something each day, no matter how small, and I love celebrating their successes. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music, spending time with family, and getting crafty with crochet, macramé, and anything that lets me explore my creativity. I am incredibly grateful to be joining the amazing team at Te Kura o Tihiotonga. Ngā mihi!
Whaea Lizzie Maud
Ako Kiwi Year 2
Rm 10
AKO KIWI Year 2
Lizzie Maud Rm 10
Tēnā koutou katoa. This is my second year at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga.
I have been teaching for 16 years including 4 years as an English teacher in Japan. I believe in providing an engaging bicultural learning environment and have a particular interest in Literacy, Art and place-based education. I have an 18 year old son, a spotty dog called Spider and I love gardening and growing tropical plants.
Teachers – Ako Ruru Year 3
Mrs Vanessa Fisher
Ako Ruru Year 3 Leader
Room 13
AKO RURU Year 3
Vanessa Fisher Rm 13
Kia ora, I’m Whaea Ness. I’m super passionate about helping our tamariki learn, grow and foster their curiosity through my teaching.
I’ve had experience teaching primary and early childhood education so I know both curriculums. I began my teaching journey in 2002 and joined the Otonga Team in 2022 and absolutely love the team and the community.
I enjoy getting out into nature, literacy and all things outdoors. I’m also super creative with arts, lego crafts and loose parts. I have a passion for literacy, learning through play, and I have an enormous children’s book and lego collection!
I have been living in Rotorua for 16 years, but am originally from Paeroa and Ohakune. I live with my husband and two boys, along with 2 cats and our beautiful dachshund/fox Terrier cross.
Whaea Anna Feben
Ako Ruru Year 3
Rm 11
AKO RURU Year 3
Anna Feben Rm 11
Kia ora koutou,
I have been teaching for 10 years, having taught in Auckland before arriving in Rotorua to teach at Lynmore. I then went off into the homebased childcare sector whilst I raised my own young family. With both my girls at school I decided it was time to return to primary teaching.
I believe in building up positive relationships quickly and cannot wait to get to know the tamariki at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga.
We love living here in this beautiful part of the country, getting out on our bikes or just walking our dog, Charlie. My husband and I also have our own food truck so spend most weekends feeding the tāngata.
Mrs Judy Moody
Ako Ruru Year 3
Rm 11
AKO RURU Year 3
Mrs Judy Moody Rm 11
Kia ora Whānau,
I am Mrs Judy Moody, and I am looking forward to joining the year 5 team for 2025, co-teaching with Whaea Anna at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga.
I have lived in Rotorua with my husband, Bruce, for the past 35 years. Our girls both have completed their schooling, in Rotorua, and are now lovely, independent young ladies.
I have taught across a variety of year levels, and in a variety of schools, mainly in Rotorua. My strengths lie in Literacy, Maths and Science. I also like to dabble in arts and craft projects.
I have a very ancient dog, Brew, who in younger years competed in Agility with and a large tabby cat who thinks he owns our house and the neighbours as well.
I have a wide range of interests: dog agility, mushroom hunting, photography, bike riding, and I hope to have some time to pick up a few more hobbies.
I look forward to meeting you at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga.
Mrs Rhegan Reid
Ako Ruru Year 3
Rm 12
AKO RURU Year 3
Rhegan Reid Rm 12
Kia ora!
I am Mrs Reid. I am very excited to be back teaching at Otonga School this coming year! I have been teaching since 2018 and have worked at Rotokawa, Kawaha Point and Otonga School with a range of year levels.
I was born and bred here in Rotorua. I live with my husband, two beautiful children, two little dogs, and a cat who rules the place.
I love the outdoors and going on adventures with my little family. I love music and often use it as a tool in the classroom. I am passionate about literacy, and I love being crafty, always having a little project on the go.
Whaea Nat Ridler
Ako Ruru Year 3
Rm 14
AKO RURU Year 3
Nat Ridler Rm 14
Tēnā koutou katoa,
I’m Whaea Nat and I’m delighted to be joining the whānau at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga in 2026. I have a real passion for learning through play, the outdoors, and creative pursuits, and above all I love making learning fun . I am excited to be joining such a diverse school with so many cultures, languages, and traditions being celebrated in the school community.
I live with my wife, Erin, our two young children, our cat Pixie, and four chickens. As a whānau we love mountain biking, travelling, camping, baking, and swimming. I also love crafting and gardening, and adore reading.
I look forward to getting to know many of you this year!
Teachers – Ako Kererū Year 4
Mrs Cheryl Hallier
Ako Kererū Year 4 Leader
Rm 2
AKO KERERŪ Year 4
Cheryl Hallier (Ako Leader) Rm 2
I have been passionate about teaching and helping young people grow all my life, starting with teaching my dolls and teddy bears when I was at Primary School myself!
Originally from South Africa, I am proud to call New Zealand home for the past 30 years!
I have been blessed to be a teacher at Otonga Primary School for the past 21+ years, taking on a variety of roles and responsibilities during that time. It’s a privilege to be a part of
Whaea April Lee
Ako Kererū Year 4
Rm 1
AKO KERERŪ Year 4
April Lee Rm 1
Kia ora and Annyeong-haseyo. I just embarked on a teaching journey and am very happy to join the Otonga whānau after the completion of teacher training through the University of Canterbury. I was born in South Korea, studied Management Information System, then worked and lived for 10 years in Singapore before gaining a Masters in Learning Science and Technology from the University of Sydney. I moved to Rotorua 6 years ago with my husband Jonathan and our son Jason.
I’ve enjoyed embracing the unique culture and beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand and looking forward to bringing my experience into the classroom as part of an inclusive and engaging space for our tamariki to thrive.
Mrs Kate Barron
Ako Kererū Year 4
Rm 3
AKO KERERŪ Year 4
Kate Barron Rm 3
Kia ora Otonga whānau
My name is Kate Barron and I am looking forward to returning to Te Kura o Tihiōtonga.
I have been working around Rotorua for the last 10 years, including working at Otonga School in the new entrant class in 2012.
I am married to Sam and we have 5 children who all attended Otonga School and are all very successful adults now.
We have 2 dogs (Ollie and Murphy) and 1 cat (Louie), who is definitely the boss.
I have started doing art for myself and I am really enjoying an excuse to accumulate more pens.
I am looking forward to forming positive relationships with the students, whānau and staff at Otonga School.
Whaea Jaime McMillan
Ako Kererū Year 4
Rm 4
AKO KERERŪ Year 4
Jaime McMillan Rm 4
Kia ora, I have been teaching on and off for the last 12 years whilst raising my family and helping run our business. My husband and I have three children, two of which also attend Otonga kura. I am passionate about teaching and nurturing our tamariki to grow in a fun and creative learning environment. When I am not at school you might see me at one of our beautiful lakes, the forest or one of our favourite beaches in the BOP. I feel privileged to be working at Te Kura o Tihiōtonga alongside an amazing team of kaiako and support staff. I love coming to kura everyday to work with our curious and creative tamariki and wonderful supportive whānau.
Teachers – Ako Kārearea Year 5
Neil Carrington
Ako Kārearea Year 5
Leader
ASSISTANT Principal
Neil Carrington
It has been a joy and honour to have been part of the Te kura o Tihiōtonga community for a number of years, during which time I have facilitated learning at every year level. As Assistant Principal I feel privileged to work with and support all our tāmariki, staff and whānau to have positive; relationships, experiences and outcomes in an enjoyable and rewarding environment.
Originally from England. I have been in New Zealand for nearly eighteen years. Since being here I have been involved in a variety of volunteer roles, mainly in sports, local theatre, Rotorua Accelerando Programme and other community projects. I am married to Liz and we have four girls, who all attended our kura, and we have two energetic dogs and six lively chooks.
Mrs Nadine McLaughlin
Ako Kārearea Year 5
Rm 17
AKO Kārearea Year 5
Nadine Mclaughlin Rm 17
Hi, I live locally in Springfield and am happily married to Tony with one daughter who now lives in Paris. I keep myself active with gardening, bike riding, practising Yoga with reading and Travel further passions.
Teaching for me has become more of a vocation than a career and in my years teaching (happily, the last 16 at Tihi Otonga School) I have worked as a classroom teacher at all levels. I also have had time as a country “sole” charge teacher, Maths advisor, Art specialist, Senior leader, A.P. and even Special Education teacher at a High School.
However when I came to Te Kura o Tihiōtonga I returned to (my first love) classroom teaching.
Here I have endeavoured to use my varied and extensive teaching experience to support, educate and inspire students in a positive way for their future. Learning never stops, and I also have continued to do this staying relevant through the support of my amazing younger colleagues and the amazing teaching team that have become like a second family.
I feel privileged to have such a rewarding career where you really can make a difference.
Miss Mairead Lewthwaite
Ako Kārearea Year 5
Rm 18
AKO Kārearea Year 5
Mairead Lewthwaite Rm 18
Kia ora Otonga whānau,
I am passionate about making learning fun and supporting our ākonga to be the best they can possibly be along their learning journeys.
Outside of school I spend most of my free time with my partner Bronson, our chickens and our dogs (Bella, Korra and Doug), camping, exploring and geocaching.
Mrs Sophie Smith
Ako Kārearea Year 5
Rm 19
AKO Kārearea Year 5
Sophie Smith Rm 19
Tēnā koutou ngā whānau ō Te Kura ō Tihiōtonga
Teachers – Ako Kāhu Year 6
Whaea Arihi Harvey
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Leader
ASSISTANT Principal
Arihi Harvey
Ko Tarawera, Wahanga me Ruawahia ngā maunga
Ko Tarawera te moana
Ko Te Pakira te marae
Ko Wahiao te tipuna whare
Ko Te Rau Aroha te wharekai
Ko Tuhourangi/Ngāti Wahiao ngā hapū
Ko Te Arawa te waka
Ko Makiha tōku whānau
Ko Arihi tōku ingoa
Tēnā ra tātou katoa, e mihi ana ki a koutou. I am excited to belong to an amazing school with amazing staff and tamariki. Hoake mahi tātou mo o tātou tamariki – Let’s work together for our children.
Whaea Sheena
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Rm 20
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Sheena Searle Rm 20
Kia Ora Koutou
I am so pleased to have the opportunity to return to Te kura o Tihiōtonga and I am very excited to become a member of the Year 6 team.
My goal is to work in partnership with students and whānau to support each child’s learning journey. I intend to ensure that we make the most of this special time at Otonga, before they move on to an Intermediate School setting.
I believe in creating a safe, inclusive and happy environment in which each child feels belonging and is confident to explore, take risks and realise their potential.
It is fantastic to be joining the awesome Otonga school community once again and I am delighted to be catching up with old friends and making new ones!
Ngā manaakitanga,
Whaea Sheena
Whaea Crystal Gunn
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Rm 21
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Crystal Gunn Rm 21
I’m thrilled to be back at Te Kura o Tihiotonga! With four and a half years of teaching experience, I’m passionate about creating environments where students feel supported and are able to thrive. I especially enjoy the Learning Through Play pedagogy at Otonga School and the way it supports meaningful engagement and learning.
Outside of school, my partner Leroy and I enjoy spending time outdoors with our daughter, Elayna. As a family, we love exploring the natural beauty of Rotorua together.
Whaea Anna Buys
Ako Kāhu Year 6
Rm 22
AKO Kāhu Year 6
Whaea Anna Buys Rm 22
Kia Ora, aangename kennis! My name is Whaea Anna, and I am excited to join the Otonga whānau in 2025. I like to think of myself as an enthusiastic and passionate teacher who is not afraid to tackle big, exciting projects with my students.
Teaching and farming have taken me all over Aotearoa in the last couple of years. I am grateful to be back in the beautiful Rotorua and closer to my whānau. My family immigrated from South Africa to the Bay of Plenty in 2012. I have two brothers in Tauranga and my parents farm outside Rotorua.
In my spare time I can be found outside! I like to be out on the farm hunting, fishing, biking, running, or swimming in our beautiful ocean.
SPECIALIST TEACHING STAFF
Mrs Donnene van Fulpen
ESOL
ESOL & Special Needs Teacher
Mrs Donnene van Fulpen
Kia Ora. I am a long time resident of Te Kura o Tihiōtonga, having taught here since 1990. Both my children have been through the school as students.
I am married to Mark and both my children have grown up and left home.
I have for many years worked with our students who have special needs which I greatly enjoy. I currently work with our students who have English as a second language (ESOL). I find it very interesting and stimulating to work with such a diverse group of students from many different cultural backgrounds.
Outside the classroom I spend my time gardening, sewing and reading.
Matua Matt Sheard
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Matua Matt Sheard
Whaea Andrea Tucker
Learning Support Coordinator and SENCo
Learning Support Coordinator
Whaea Andrea Tucker
It’s fantastic to be part of the Otonga School team, having joined the school community at the beginning of 2025.
I bring over 20 years of experience in teaching and education. Most recently, I worked as Deputy Principal within a senior leadership team, which has strengthened my focus and commitment to student success.
In my role here at Otonga, I have the privilege of working with students across all year levels. I have a particular passion for literacy, which I use to support both our students’ progress and my colleagues’ professional practice. I am also passionate about strengthening the connection between the school and our whānau, ensuring every child has a supportive learning environment.
I look forward to continuing to connect with everyone in the Otonga community.
OTHER TEACHING STAFF
Matua Braeden Belt
Teacher Release
Teacher Release
Matua Braeden Belt
Kia ora Koutou,
My name is Braeden Belt, I was born in Nelson and did my primary school years at Richmond Primary School, before moving around New Zealand, and staying in Rotorua from 2017. I have recently completed my Bachelor of Primary Teaching, and am excited to spend time in various classrooms to develop my teaching kete.
I believe the best way for tamariki to learn is through memorable lessons and positive relationships, and I strive to deliver this in my day to day teaching. I enjoy every day I spend in the classroom, overcoming challenges and building a solid foundation for my teaching career.
My personal hobbies include playing disc golf and enjoying strategy-based tabletop games.
I look forward to my time at Otonga School!
Matua Dave Willis
Teacher Release
Teacher Release
Matua Dave Willis
ADMIN STAFF
Mrs Antonia Magness
Executive Officer & BOT Secretary
Antonia Magness – Executive Officer
Kia ora! I’ve been part of the Otonga School whānau since January 2012, starting out as a part-time accounts clerk and growing into my current role as Executive Officer and Board of Trustees Secretary. I genuinely love what I do!
My days are wonderfully varied, with responsibilities spanning accounts, administration, finance, and payroll – no two days are ever quite the same. Te Kura o Tihiōtonga is a fantastic place to work, with incredibly supportive staff and students who are an absolute joy.
Otonga also holds a special place in my heart as both of my sons attended school here (not so little anymore!). Ryan is now self-employed as a DIY/Handyman, while Alex is studying Animation, Visual Effects & Game Design at AUT.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my sons whenever I can, and with our much-loved miniature schnauzer, Sadie, who keeps us all on our toes.
Mrs Andrea Greyling
School Secretary & Principal PA
Andrea Greyling – School Secretary
I am from South Africa originally, but we’ve lived in Scotland for 15 years. Our 3 children were born in Inverness, now aged 9,11 and 14.
We arrived in NZ in 2020 and absolutely love the outdoors, camping and tramping. I am next to the sports field a lot as our children love sports! Other than that, I enjoy baking and catching up with friends & family.
I’ve had the privilege to work at Otonga since 2022 and feel blessed to be part of this family. I love being in the office, meeting new families and seeing all the children’s smiling faces.
Mrs Roshni Patel
Admin/Office Assistant
Roshni Patel – Admin/Office Assistant
Kia ora and Namaste,
My name is Roshni Patel, and I feel privileged to be working at Otonga School. I am originally from London and have been living in New Zealand for the past three years.
We arrived in 2023 and absolutely love the greenery. I live in Rotorua with my husband and our two boys, who both attend Otonga School.
I have over 15 years of experience working in administration across various offices, and I truly enjoy this type of work.
Ms Nikki Gisby
Admin & Library Assistant
Nikki Gisby – Library Assistant/Caretaker
After offering to volunteer in the Library, the Librarian Assistant position became available…then the Assistant Groundskeeper. An unusual job description. It’s been 9 years, and I continue to love working in this amazing school environment. Such a dedicated team of people who make this kura so special for our tamariki.
LEARNING ASSISTANTS
Miss Sarah Fox
Learning Assistant
Sarah Fox – Learning Assistant
Hello everyone. I’m so proud to work here at such a great school. I was born in Rotorua, and attended here as a child so I feel a huge connection here.
After attending Waikato University, I enjoyed a career in HR Management, specialising in Learning and Development for various corporates in Auckland, including insurance, telco and performing arts industries.
My family moved back to Rotorua in 2017 and my two fabulous daughters Grace and Charlie also attended Otonga – they’re now still following in my footsteps and are at Rotorua Girls’ High. Grace was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when she was 8, and that’s when I started my work in schools, initially so I could be close to her to manage her care.
Since being at Otonga I’ve managed the care of a few students with Type 1 Diabetes, as well as working with many other students and classes. It’s an absolute privilege to be part of our awesome tamariki’s learning journey here at Otonga School.
Mrs Rosa Julian
Learning Assistant
Rosa Julian – Learning Assistant
Kia ora koutou. I’m a Colombian living in NZ for over 15 years, married to a kiwi with two teenage boys. Before coming to New Zealand I worked as a Scuba Diver Instructor in the Caribbean Sea with over a thousand dives under my belt.
After completing a Learning Assistant course, I came to Te Kura o Tihiōtonga where I have been for the past 2 years and it has been an incredible experience, learning something new every day. I feel very lucky to be part of such a great team and environment.
I love dancing, being active and helping out others.
Mrs Judy Tian
Learning Assistant
Judy Tian – Learning Assistant
Hello everyone, I am Whaea Judy and I’ve been a learning assistant at Otonga School since 2018. I am originally from China and have been in Rotorua for over 20 years. I have two children of my own, one who is currently 17 and one 15, so I have seen the impact of school on them. Therefore, I believe that it is important to help create a positive learning environment and wish to help all students achieve their goals.
Miss Frances Turpie
Learning Assistant
Frances Turpie – Learning Assistant
I moved to Rotorua from Whakatane in 1987 and went to polytechnic for a year after which I worked in retail and managed a few clothing stores before starting my family in 2000. I live with my partner and we have 3 fabulous sons who all attended Otonga School between 2006 – 2020.
I’ve been involved with Otonga for quite a few years and I was often in classes helping out and also volunteered in the library for a time. When my youngest was starting school in 2014 I became a Learning Assistant. During this time I have worked in all year levels through the school and have enjoyed working with our fantastic students and fabulous teachers over the years.
In my spare time I love cooking, baking yummy desserts (yes I’m a Chelsea Winter fan), getting creative by sewing, crocheting and knitting and of course reading lots of books.
Mrs Rachel Wyatt
Learning Assistant
Rachel Wyatt – Learning Assistant
I came to Otonga School with my children 13 years ago and somehow I have never left.
I’m married to Shaun and together we co-own a local Wood Remanufacturing Plant, focusing on producing sustainable wood products for New Zealand’s primary industries. Most weekends are spent with time in the forest and with our three teens.
I hope every child I work with leaves me feeling empowered, confident and content within who they are and their ability. I strongly believe relationships are what makes the world go around and teaching a child self belief is the biggest gift we can give.
SUPPORT STAFF
Mrs Pauline Atkinson
Library Manager
Pauline Atkinson – Library Manager
I am married and live in Rotorua with my husband and feel extremely fortunate to have two wonderful daughters and two delightful grandchildren that live locally with whom I spend as much time as possible. I was an avid reader in my youth which led me to a vocation I love.
I have been employed as Library Manager at Otonga Road Primary School for many years and during that time have seen and adapted to many changes. With the onset of digital technology my work now involves not only all aspects of managing a School Library but also administration of the School Management Systems for Chromebooks, iPads, plus Microsoft Google accounts for staff and students.
Reading is a gift for life and instilling the love of books in our students is top of my list.
Mr Glenn Farnham
Caretaker
Glenn Farnham – Caretaker
I am honoured to be Caretaker of the Otonga School team. What a beautiful school we have and I get to enhance its beautifulness. How cool!
I admire the challenge and philosophy of “Learning through play” and seeing the joy of the children learning when this practice is in action is awesome.
Outside school I am a cub leader, football coach, and an avid cyclist where most weekends, I am exploring the fantastic Whakarewarewa forest mountain bike tracks with my 10 year-old son, Anthony.
I am looking forward to assisting in making Otonga School a better, cleaner, safer place in 2024.
Whaea Liz
CBOP Sports & Events Director
Liz Savage – CBOP Sports & Events DIrector
Tena koe koutou ma. I have been here at the amazing Te Kura o Tihiōtonga since 2020 delivering and organising sport to all our primary and intermediate schools within Rotorua and love every day I am here.
Te Kura o Tihiōtonga has created an amazing environment that is safe, welcoming and fun. A culture that is whānau and a team that has become whānau.
Sports has been a part of life for me and my whānau where we have represented at international and national levels.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of an amazing school.
Whānau is Otonga, Otonga is Whānau Metiaki maata e Kia manuia
Tana
School Dog
Tana – Aka Tanaboy or Tana fat fat. 🐾
I am a 3 year old border collie and have been at Otonga School since I was a wee pup. I have been the School Principal, the school staff therapy dog and most of all a friend to all my wonderful colleagues. I love cuddles, treats, swimming and running through the bush, the beach and my favourite place is Reeme Rd reserve at Ngongotaha so I can catch up with my mates.
Woof woof, wooof wooof wooof, woof.
Woof Woof Woof.🦴𐂯🦴
Bricks
School Cat
Meet Bricks ฅ^>⩊<^ฅ
Official Lego School Cat. Part-time supervisor. Full-time legend.
Black and white by design (classic, obviously), Bricks can usually be found inspecting playground safety, warming important paperwork, or silently judging your building technique. He believes all Lego creations could be improved with more naps and at least one strategically placed paw. ฅ
Known for:
- Turning up to meetings he wasn’t invited to 🐱
- Sitting exactly where you need to work 🐱
- Accepting brick bites as payment (he’s never too far away from his personalised bowl) 🐱
- Teaching children the vital life skill of calm under pressure (by sleeping through chaos) 🐱
Bricks runs on curiosity, kindness, and the firm belief that every school is better with a cat in charge. If you’re lucky, you might get a head-boop or a slow blink – the highest honour in Legoland. 🧱
Meow Meow Meow ₍^. .^₎⟆
Our staff are lovely people and are always striving to be better teachers. We work hard and play harder.
Be emotionally present for people. It’s a powerful message of respect that improves communication and strengthens relationships.
Tap into your natural way of being creative, enthusiastic, and having fun. Play is the spirit that drives the curious mind, as in “Let’s play with that idea!” You can bring this mindset to everything you do.
Find simple ways to serve or delight people in a meaningful, memorable way. It’s about contributing to someone else’s life—not because you want something, but because that’s the person you want to be.
Take responsibility for how you respond to what life throws at you. Your choice affects others. Ask yourself: “Is my attitude helping my team? Is it helping me to be the person I want to be?”