Meet the team
Welcome to Little Tui, Early Childhood Centre.
At Little Tui, our goal is to create a space where both tamariki and their whānau feel a deep sense of belonging the moment they walk through our doors. We want our tamariki to feel free to explore, take risks, and be curious about the world around them, knowing they are supported and valued every step of the way. Our aim is to provide an environment where every child can develop confidence in themselves and their abilities, knowing that they are the authors of their own stories.
With a strong belief in the power of play-based learning, we see each child as unique, bringing their own experiences and qualities that make them special. We pride ourselves in fostering respectful practices that recognize and celebrate these differences. At Little Tui, we focus on building meaningful connections with our tamariki and their whānau, guided by the values of whanaungatanga and aroha. We want our children and families to feel that their voices are heard, respected, and valued as part of our community.
I’m a firm believer that nature plays a vital role in the development of tamariki. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only wrong clothing! Encouraging children to connect with the natural world offers endless opportunities for learning, growth, and discovery. These experiences help our tamariki build important social and emotional skills, and foster a love of learning that stays with them for life.
With over a decade of experience in education, I knew that my passion lay in supporting the development of tamariki in the early childhood sector. After becoming a mother myself, I quickly fell in love with the ECE industry, and decided to open Little Tui to provide a place where children can thrive in a safe, supportive environment. I am committed to working closely with whānau to ensure that each child’s journey is supported with the care and attention they deserve.
Nga Mihi
Komal Kaur
Komal Kaur - Owner/Director
Qualified Kaiako
Kia ora, ko Nat toku ingoa.
I live here in Hamilton with my husband Regan and two children, Emmett and Kenzie. My early childhood journey started through relieving when my daughter, Kenzie enrolled here at Little Tui. Over time I discovered my passion for teaching, so it was an easy yes when I was offered a full-time position. I have a gentle, caring and supportive nature which I carry through into my practice. I encourage play based learning and like to be outdoors. I really enjoy working in a small family owned business. My main goal is to make a positive difference in ngā tamairki lives everyday. I look forward to getting to know you and your whānau.
Ngā mihi,
Nat
Nat - kaiako
Kia Ora, I'm Kirsty.
I grew up in the Waikato and have two Beautiful children. I enjoy socializing with my friends, singing, and laughter.
I've been teaching here for around 3 years. My background has been many years being part of play centre. I enjoy forming relationships with all akonga and being part of your nga tamariki learning journeys. I look forward to many more learning and teaching moments to come.
Kirsty - kaiako
Kia ora, my name is Teneill
Teneill - qualified kaiako
Kia ora, my name is Joy and I am a Qualified teacher with 16 years’ experience. I love exploring with the tamariki by indulging in the messy play together, looking for insects, digging for treasure in the sandpit, nature talk and creating at the carpentry table.
I have grown up in this area and I am a mum to 3 awesome boys. I enjoy the beach, bush walks, trail runs and love classic cars.
I believe in providing tamariki with a nurturing, caring, and stimulating environments that allow them to learn through exploration and play. I also believe in the importance of strong relationships with tamariki and their whānau built on trust and respect.
Joy - Qualified Kaiako
Kia ora, I’m Shanniya! I am one of the qualified Kaiako at Little Tui, originally from Tuakau but since bought my first home here in Hamilton a few years ago (a big DIY project!). My fiancé Alex and I are set to get married in November this year, with our two cats and dog keeping us company until we decide to extend our little whanau.
Working at Little Tui has allowed my passion for teaching to flourish which has made our little centre feel like a home away from home. Creativity and messy play is what I’m all about, with trust and relationships at the centre of my philosophy, and being a part in children’s success is my reward as a teacher. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone in our community!
Shanniya - qualified kaiako
Kia Ora! I’ve worked in Early Childhood Education for seven years after being invited to join the team as an unqualified reliever.
Our youngest of three children had just graduated kindy for school and I’ve never looked back! It’s quite simply the most rewarding job I’ve ever had!
I especially love the relationships formed with our tamariki, their whanau and within our teaching team. I have a Master of Science (with honors), majoring in biology. My family and I have a great passion for animals and we have a small menagerie at our house. I love to share this passion and my knowledge of the natural world with our tamariki.