Ngā kaiako
Meet our kaiako, a teaching team with a century of experience
Our Rotorua teaching team bring a rich wealth of knowledge, care and understanding to our learning environment, and they are the reason tamariki settle so well here.
Meet them in person on a visit.
Our teaching team
Diverse, experienced and genuinely warm
Our kaiako bring together more than a century of combined experience, offering a rich wealth of knowledge, care and understanding to our learning environment.
Grounded in Te Whāriki, our teaching team supports every tamaiti to learn, grow and thrive in a way that honours their unique strengths, interests and identity.
Our team is a mix of qualified and non-qualified kaiako. Each one brings their own gifts, skills, experience and passion for early childhood education, and together that mix is a real strength for our tamariki.
Together, they create a nurturing, inclusive and welcoming space where tamariki and whānau experience aroha, manaakitanga, connection and a true sense of belonging.
Through whanaungatanga, we walk alongside our families and create a community where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.
Meet the team
Our caring and experienced teaching team
Each person brings their own experience, culture, interests and care to the Little Darlings whānau.
Kim Dalton
Kia ora, I am Kim Dalton.
Little Darlings Childcare has been in my family for over 40 years. It is very dear to my heart, as is educating and caring for our tamariki.
I have taught in education for over 30 years and, for the past four years, have been the proud owner and manager of Little Darlings Childcare after my mum retired.
I am passionate about early childhood education and creating a place where every tamaiti feels safe, valued and truly belongs. I believe childhood should be filled with play, discovery, laughter and opportunities to grow in confidence. Building genuine relationships with our tamariki and whānau is at the heart of everything we do.
Little Darlings is more than a childcare centre to me. It is part of my whānau, and I feel incredibly privileged to continue its story for the next generation.
Anila Angel
Hi, my name is Anila Angel. I was born and raised in India, where I completed my education. I am a passionate and dedicated childcare educator who enjoys supporting children as they learn, grow and develop their confidence.
I chose early childhood education because I believe the early years provide an important foundation for a child’s future. I enjoy creating a safe, nurturing, inclusive and positive environment where children feel valued, respected and encouraged to explore and learn through play.
I chose to build my career in New Zealand because I value its child-centred approach to education, with a strong focus on children’s wellbeing, inclusion and learning through play. For me, childcare is more than just a job. It is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with children, support their individual needs and interests, and make a positive difference in their lives.
Aino
Hi, I’m Aino! I’m originally from China. I enjoy cooking Chinese food, playing guitar, travelling and sharing new experiences. Most of all, I love watching children learn, grow and become confident in who they are.
Harjeet
Sat Shri Akaal. I am Harjeet, married to Jaswant Singh with three kids. For me, my life is my kids.
At Little Darlings, as a teacher, I am committed to creating a caring, welcoming and supportive environment where every child feels valued and confident.
I enjoy planning fun and meaningful learning experiences, following children's interests, and encouraging their curiosity, creativity, independence and development through play and everyday activities.
Sera
Bula vinaka. I am Sera, married to James (Jimmy), with three grown-up children and four precious mokos. My family is the love of my life.
At Little Darlings, my passion is to nurture your children with love and respect, inspire them to learn as much as they can, and grow their knowledge of the world, values and skills for a happy and successful life.
What you can expect
Kaiako who walk alongside your whānau
Through whanaungatanga we create a community where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.
- A mix of qualified and non-qualified kaiako, all experienced and hands on
- Teaching grounded in Te Whāriki
- Aroha and manaakitanga in everyday care
- Honest kōrero with whānau about how the day went
Want to meet the team before you enrol? Call 027 420 4362 and we will arrange a time.
Enrolments open
Come and see the centre for yourself
Tell us your child's age and the days you need. We will come back to you with what we have available and a time you can visit, with your child alongside you.