Our People - Sunnyvale Primary School

Leadership Team

Katie Pennicott
Principal

Katie's bio

Ko Hikurangi te maunga Ko Waiapu te awa Ko Horouta te waka Ko Ngati Porou te iwi Tena koutou katoa Kia ora koutou, I am Katie Pennicott. I am from Invercargill and my tipuna are of Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Pakēha and Whenua Moemoea descent. I am originally from Invercargiill and now live in Auckland. I have been a teacher and school leader for 25 years. I am passionate about providing the conditions resources, support and space for success, enjoyment and belonging for all of our students, teachers and whānau. I have one son aged 23 years, and my chihuahuas Frankie and Doug come to school with me most days. I love getting out and about enjoying nature around Auckland. I welcome all feedback, suggestions and ideas and love hearing from our school community. The door is always open, Nau mai, Haere mai!

Mericia Chang
Deputy Principal | Kauri Team Leader | Kaiako

Mericia's bio

Fakaalofa lahi atu, I am Mericia Chang. I am of Niuean descent, teacher of Room 6, Team Leader of the Kauri Syndicate (Y5-6) and Across School Leader of our Henderson Kahui Ako (Community of Learning). I have only started working here at Sunnyvale School this year. I am married to Nigel (Samoan-Chinese) and have four children – Lanicia (17), Dallyce (16), Manatoa (12) and Johnson (9). My daughters Lanicia and Dallyce attend St Dominics College, My son Manatoa attends Liston College and my baby Johnson is currently at Western Heights Primary as of this year. I have been teaching for 11 years (years 3-8) at 3 different schools. In addition, my family and life outside teaching also play a major role and influence me as a teacher/leader. I manage a sporting family – and I’m the main cheerleader for them on the sideline of the court and the field. Life is busy as a full time working Mum. Nevertheless, I too am a learner and my role as a teacher, leader and all my other responsibilities are constant work in progress and is always evolving – but as they say, ‘life is so much easier with a sense of humour’. My door is always open, and I love meeting and chatting with people.

Jessica Shirley
Deputy Principal | Kowhai Team Leader | Teacher Room 1

Jessica's bio

Kia ora tatou. My name is Jessica Shirley and I started my teaching journey here at Sunnyvale school in 2009. I originally grew up in South Auckland, attending school in Papatoetoe but now I call West Auckland home. We also have a family bach at Waihi Beach where I spend a lot of summers and long weekends. I love being a teacher and seeing the progress of the tamariki here at our school. I feel blessed that I get to do what I do everyday. I believe every child is different it’s very important to build solid relationships with my learners and their whānau by getting to know who they are as individuals and what their interests and passions are. I hold high expectations for my students and love to celebrate success. I believe learning is for life. I have learnt so much about myself, children and education during my time at Sunnyvale. I want to give my students the tools to be lifelong learners and strive to achieve their goals and ambitions. In my spare time I love spending time with friends and family, listening to music, being by a pool or at the beach and walking. I also love meeting new people, so my door is also open and everyone is welcome to come for a chat.

May Gaseata
Assistant Principal | Pohutukawa Team Leader | Faiaoga Nafanua

May's bio

Talofa, talofa, talofa lava. My name is May Gaseata and I have been at Sunnyvale since 2015. My passions include music and Siva Samoa, and I also love tutoring the Pasifika Group, alongside another colleague of mine. The thing I love most about teaching is; the lightbulb moments students have and seeing students shine in different areas at school, whether it be through academics, the arts or sports. In my spare time I love to play with my son and catch up on my programs. I love summer and going to the beach to have a swim and a BBQ. My door is always open and I am always willing to listen, so please do not hesitate to come in. Fa’afetai lava

Lesley Boswell
Nikau Team Leader / Teacher Room 16

Lesley's bio

Kia Ora tatou, I’m Miss Boswell. I began my teaching journey in 1999 with a B.Ed from Auckland Uni, after originally training as a teacher aide. Sunnyvale is my third school after beginning my career at Kohimarama, then Edendale. I feel blessed to come home to West Auckland where I was raised, having grown up in Glen Eden and attending Prospect Primary, Bruce Mac and Kelston Girls. I’m Sunnyvale’s resident All Black obsessive and Blues tragic, and an arachnophile. I believe strongly in the importance of developing maturity and encouraging independence as tamariki cross from the junior school into the senior. I love encouraging tamariki to notice and appreciate the natural world and the amazing things about mini animals around them everyday. My greatest passion is Reading and I enjoy igniting a love of books, the joy you get from reading and opening up young people’s imaginations. In my personal time I enjoy reading and watching murder mysteries and surprise, surprise, going to the rugby at Eden Park with my brother Keith. Feel free to come and meet me, if you can find me disguised among the tamariki. 😆🕸

Kowhai

Jessica Shirley
Deputy Principal | Kowhai Team Leader | Teacher Room 1

Jessica's bio

Sheetal Dhyani
Room 2

Sheetal's bio

Kia Ora, My name is Sheetal, and I am originally from India, having migrated to New Zealand in 2002. I am blessed with a wonderful family, including my supportive spouse and two remarkable sons. With over twenty years of teaching experience across both India and New Zealand, I have dedicated my career to shaping young minds and fostering enriching learning environments. Holding a Bachelor of Teaching from the New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC), I bring a deep understanding of pedagogical practices and child development. I firmly believe that children thrive in an atmosphere of love, respect, and encouragement. Teaching, to me, is not merely a profession—it is a calling, a passion that demands wholehearted dedication. Being part of a child’s educational journey is a privilege, and I wholeheartedly commit myself to nurturing their growth, curiosity, and potential.

Jamie Cunnington
Room 3

Jamie's bio

Tena koutou katoa, Ko Tangihua tōku maunga Ko Wairoa tōku awa Ko Mahurihuri o Te rangi tōku waka Ko Te Tirarau tōku tipuna Ko Ngāti Whatua tōku iwi Ko Te Parawhau tōku hapu Ko Tirarau tōku Marae No Tangiteroria ahau Kei Tāmaki Makaurau tōku kainga noho Ko Jamie Cunnington tōku ingoa No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, tena tatou katoa Kia ora koutou! My name is Jamie Cunnington. I grew up in Mt Eden but my family all live in West Auckland so it has always been a second home to me. I studied theatre at Victoria University in Wellington, moving back to Auckland in 2019 where I completed my Post Graduate Diploma in teaching at The University of Auckland. I have been a kaiako at Sunnyvale School since 2020. I started my teaching journmey in Kauri teaching Year 5 and 6 and have been teaching in the Kōwhai syndicate since 2022. I have gained a real passion for teaching New Entrant and Year 1 tamariki.

Portia Ball
Room 4

Portia's bio

Kia ora! My name is Portia Ball and I am so excited to begin my teaching career at Sunnyvale in 2024. I was born and raised in West Auckland and have wanted to be a teacher since I was little. I have recently graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Education. I have a background in dance and a passion for the Arts and providing opportunities for ākonga to unleash their creativity. In my free time, I like to read, crochet, and spend time with family and, of course, my cat Princess. I am looking forward to beginning this new journey in Room 4 and learning alongside my tamariki. Feel free to pop in and say hi 🙂

Eric Chan-Foon
Faiaoga Nafanua

Eric's bio

Talofa lava, My name is Eric Chan-foon, I am of Samoan Chinese descent, born and raised in West Auckland, with a brief stint in Brisbane. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science degree I went on to work as a Laboratory Manager/Technician at Kelston Boys High School, De La Salle College and Faith Lutheran College in Brisbane. As a Scientist working in education I developed a passion for student learning and wanted to be directly involved, so I transitioned into teaching working at West Auckland Middle School and now here at Sunnyvale Primary. My goal is to create a safe space for our young kids to learn, while also embracing their culture. Every student can be successful with the proper guidance, and I am privileged that I am in the position to facilitate that. Outside of school I go to Church, participating in the Worship Team, playing electric guitar and going on walks with my wife and daughter. Feel free to come see me if you have any questions. Fa’afetai Lava

Caitlin Jessiman
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Caitlin 's bio

Ko Whakataha te maunga Ko Waitangi te awa Ko Mātaatua te waka Ko Ngā Puhi te iwi Ko Tauwhara te marae Ko Caitlin toku ingoa Kia ora, my name is Caitlin Jessiman. I was born and raised in West Auckland, however, my whanau hail from a small town called Waimate North. I have recently completed my Bachelor of Education, and I am beyond excited and privileged to join the Sunnyvale whanau 2024. I am looking forward to beginning my teaching journey. I aim to create a fun, inclusive, creative and encouraging environment for my ākonga to grow and thrive in. In my free time, I love to go to the beach, spend time with my whānau and listen to music. I also love meeting new people, so feel free to come in and have a chat 🙂

Jasmine Hohua
Room 2 - Maternity Leave

Jasmine's bio

Kia ora my name is Jasmine Hohua. I am a mother and a wife and we have been a part of the Sunnyvale community for the past 5 years. I am passionate about tamariki and love to foster learning and growth. I believe learning happens through genuine connection between kaiako, tamariki and whanau so whanau connections are high on my priority list. I look forward to working alongside your tamariki and your whanau this year.

Ginny Pani
Teacher Room 1

Ginny's bio

Kia Ora My name is Ginny Pani .I am originally from Bangalore, India, and now live in West Auckland with my husband, Sam. We have two grown-up daughters who mean the world to me. I am a passionate educator with over 20 years of teaching experience in India, and I have continued to build on that foundation here in Auckland, especially in early childhood education. I am committed to fostering safe, inclusive learning environments where every child feels supported and valued—because every learner is unique and deserves to thrive. I believe in nurturing a strong sense of belonging with my students and their whānau, while embracing the idea that there is always something new to learn, together. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and spending quality time with family and friends. I am very excited to be part of the Sunnyvale team.

Mehmet Yumurkuz
Teacher

Mehmet's bio

My name is Mehmet Yumrukuz, and I’m a dedicated teacher from Turkey. I’ve worked in Ukraine, Thailand, and now New Zealand. I love my job and enjoy learning new languages and cultures — I speak Turkish, Russian, and a little bit of Thai. I’m passionate about learning and see myself as a lifelong learner as well as a teacher. I also love playing soccer and table tennis. I hold a Primary Teaching Specialisation from the University of Auckland.

Vaitoelau Ah Chee
Faiaoga Nafanua

Nikau

Lesley Boswell
Nikau Team Leader / Teacher Room 16

Lesley's bio

Vaiga Tino
Faiaoga Nafanua

Vaiga's bio

Talofa lava. My name is Vaiga Molio’o. I am of Samoan descent – born and raised. I’ve lived in Auckland for more than a decade now and it has truly become my home away from home. I wear my heart on my sleeve in what I do as I believe that every good thing must flow from the inside in order for it to bloom greatly on the outside. I’m very privileged to start off my teaching career here at Sunnyvale School 2021. I believe that it will have a massive impact on my life as an educator as well as a learner. I love my culture and I love to embrace and learn new cultures therefore, creating a sense of belonging in the classroom for learners to feel at home is a big priority of mine. I look forward to working alongside you all. Fa’afetai lava.

Natasha Chandra
Room 11

Natasha's bio

Kia Ora! My name is Natasha Chandra and I have been at Sunnyvale Primary School since February 2019. I am originally from Fiji and have been living in Auckland for the last 18 years. I have taught as an Early Childhood Teacher before graduating with my Diploma in Teaching (Primary) in 2018. I believe in creating a positive learning environment that encourages our tamariki to take risks and experience success

Danielle Auld-Julian
Room 12

Danielle's bio

Kia Ora, I am Danielle Auld-Julian, but my students call me Miss A-J. Relieving at Sunnyvale Primary has been great and I was lucky enough to be asked to stay on as part of the Sunnyvale Whanau teaching in room 7 for the rest of 2021. I am born and bred in West Auckland and have taught in the UK as well as several other New Zealand schools teaching a wide range of year levels. I love watching tamariki engage and progress with their learning and in particular enjoy teaching reading. I love ceroc dancing as well as home and craft projects.

Teresa Puamau
Room 13

Teresa 's bio

Kia Ora Tatou, I am Teresa Puamau, I am of pakeha descent and am originally from Thames. I moved to Auckland at the age of 6 and have spent most of my life on the North shore, with a four year stint in south Auckland. I have had a vast amount of cultural influence in and through my life providing me with a rich and diverse upbringing and adulthood. I currently reside in Albany with 4 of my 5 grown children, my mother and my sister. My children are Maeeve (24), Fohe (22), Ilaisaane (20), Tairua (18), and Mariska (16). Maaeve lives in Nelson with her Fiance and Mariska is completing NCEA level 2 at Rangitoto College, the others are all working. I have always been active in their chosen sporting and extra curricular activities, leading me to become a Pippin and Brownie leader in the Girls Guide Movement, parent support, coach and manager of water polo as well as netball, and previously a committee member of the TS Bellona sea cadet unit. I have never not been far from working with children throughout my teens and adulthood, through caregiving to teacher aide roles and now teaching. I am a new teacher having completed my B Ed (primary) teaching degree in 2021. I am a firm believer of learning being a collaboration between teachers, whanau and students. I believe open communication is important for all to be successful. In my spare time, I love to read and spend time with my family and friends. I also like to water walk. I am excited to join the teaching team at Sunnyvale school and look forward to working alongside everyone to hautū (guide) and taituarā (support) students in their journey to become lifelong learners while continuing my learning journey as a teacher.

Anjupreet Kaur
Room 14

Anjupreet's bio

Kia ora, I’m Ms. Kaur—my full name is Anjupreet Kaur. I am originally from India and a proud mother of two grown-up children. I have a strong passion for working with tamariki and supporting their learning and growth. I moved to New Zealand in 2011 and began my teaching journey here in 2012. I believe in building genuine relationships and strong connections between kaiako, tamariki, and whānau to create a sense of belonging for every child and their family. I love spending time with children, having fun and meaningful conversations, and encouraging their curiosity and confidence. I am a patient and caring teacher who sees each child as unique, capable, and full of potential. My background in early childhood education has given me a strong foundation to grow as a teacher. I strive to create supportive, inclusive environments where tamariki feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. My volunteer work also reflects my commitment to helping others and contributing to the wider community. In my personal time, I practise mindfulness and regularly meditate. I enjoy reading, going for long nature walks on the weekends, and spending time with my family. I’m looking forward to working alongside your tamariki and your whānau this year.

Lana Laurenson
Room 15

Lana's bio

Kia ora tātou, Ko Biokovo tōku maunga, Ko Trnava tōku awa, Nō Koroatea ahau. Ko Čanžek tōku whānau, Ko Lana tōku ingoa, Ko Whaea Lana tōku ingoa kura. My name is Lana and I am the kaiako of Room 15. I am originally from Croatia, from a little rural town with a great big history, but have called Aotearoa my home for most of my life. I have two amazing daughters that attend Sunnyvale, and you might have seen me around as I used to be on the Sunnyvale Board of Trustees and in the classroom as a parent helper. I believe in creating a sense of belonging and significance for all of our tamariki here at school, and look forward to so many learning adventures!

Tupu Tuia

Tupu's bio

Talofa lava Hi my name is Tuia Tuia. I started working at Sunnyvale in 2017 then had a break to have my baby and came back in 2019. I enjoy teaching at Sunnyvale and making a difference in our tamariki lives.

Pohutukawa

May Gaseata
Assistant Principal | Pohutukawa Team Leader | Faiaoga Nafanua

May's bio

Jessica Mathews
Room 6

Jessica's bio

“Kia Ora! My name is Jessica Mathews and I recently graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Education. I am passionate about creating and encouraging an inclusive learning environment where all tamariki can grow and glow. When I am not at school, I enjoy picnics and gardening, as well as visiting my family in the Waikato. I am excited to be a part of the Sunnyvale team!”

Annie Wallbank
Faiaoga Nafanua

Annie's bio

Talofa lava, My name is Annie Wallbank, I am of Samoan-European descent. I was born and raised in West Auckland though hail from the villages of Salailua, Savaii and Vaovai, Falealili. I first came to Sunnyvale as a student teacher in 2019 and have the privilege of joining the teaching team this year in Nafanua. I love being able to embrace my culture and the culture of others and look forward to teaching and learning aside learners. I aspire to be a teacher who creates a culture of belonging and inclusion where students are able to bring their whole selves to the classroom as they learn and grow. Outside of school, you will find me chasing a sunset, at the beach or spending time with aiga. I love meeting new people, so please don’t hesitate to come in! Fa’afetai lava.

Elmira Bastida
Room 10

Elmira's bio

Kia Ora, I am Elmira Dashtabi. I was born and raised in West Auckland, New Zealand, and I am of Iranian descent. I speak fluent Farsi and English. I graduated from AUT with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Psychology. Additionally, I recently completed a graduate diploma in Primary Education from the University of Waikato. I am looking forward to starting my journey as a teacher at Sunnyvale Primary School pursuing my passion for primary education. My goal is to foster a positive, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment for my future students, creating meaningful connections both inside and outside the classroom. During my free time, I enjoy walking my two dogs, listening to music, and spending quality time with my family and friends.

Steve Gibson
Room 10

Steve's bio

Kia ora koutou! My name is Steve Gibson, and my teaching journey began officially in 2015 when I did my studies at Auckland university. I actually did one of my placements that year at Sunnyvale Primary, and now I am incredibly excited to return to this wonderful school with a whole class of my own! A little bit about me, I LOVE sports. I have played football at local clubs for the past 25 years at various competitive and social levels, however I also enjoy struggling on the golf course whenever I get the chance to. I have also worked at a summer camp in the U.S four separate times from 2014 – 2018. I worked as a general counsellor for a year before becoming the head of the sports department where I taught anything from archery, to frisbee, to netball, and volleyball. My camp was located in a small New Hampshire town called Windsor, and it was about a 1 hour drive from Boston and a 6 hour drive from New York City. I am very much looking forward to being a part of the Sunnyvale teaching team and I can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store for all of us 🙂

Pushpa Ram
Gyan Deep (Hindi Bilingual)

Pushpa's bio

I am Pushpa Ram, and I grew up in Fiji on a farm eating lots of fresh food and fruits every day. Listening to my grandma’s stories and learning many valuable life skills through playing with nature. I had a river near my house which was like a swimming pool .I got the teaching inspiration through my parents. They taught me how to read and write in my language. Therefore, I have a huge passion for teaching and learning and I absolutely love what I do. It’s an honour for me to be part of Sunnyvale School whanau and I will do everything I can to ensure our tamariki are nurtured in a supportive learning.

Tash Jamieson

Tash's bio

Kia ora koutou, My name is Tash Jamieson. I started my educational career as a dyslexia tutor and teacher aide before completing my teaching degree in 2017. I began teaching in 2018 and have spent the last few years relieving in schools around west and central Auckland. I grew up in Piha and am excited to be back in West Auckland teaching at Sunnyvale.

Kauri

Mericia Chang
Deputy Principal | Kauri Team Leader | Kaiako

Mericia's bio

Dorothy Vaipulu
Room 8

Dorothy's bio

Malo e lelei. My name is Dorothy Vaipulu and I am Tongan. I have only started working here at Sunnyvale School this term. (Term 3 2022) I am happily married with four beautiful children. I have been teaching at Dominion Road School for the last 2 years on year 0 &1. It is a blessing to join the amazing team and I am looking forward to get to know my learners individually and their whanau. I love spending time with my family and friends, playing tennis and fishing with hubby. If you see me in the class please don’t hesitate to come in to say hello and have a little bit of laugh.

Moses Lee
Room 8

Moses's bio

Greetings everyone, My name is Moses, I’m a freshly graduated new teacher. I have a lot of excitement and eagerness in me to learn new experiences from Sunnyvale and to also give new experiences to my students. It is my goal and my main priority as your child’s teacher to help them learn necessary skills so that they can achieve their dreams and succeed in life. Other than dedicating my time to students, in my free time I like to travel, learn languages, and hiking and breathing in the mountain air. Feel free to come and visit my classroom, I’m always happy to have a chat.

Rikki-Leigh Smith
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Rikki-Leigh's bio

Kia Ora e te Whanau, Ko Orowhana toku maunga Ko Rangiheke te awa Ko Mamari toku waka Ko Te Rarawa me Te Aupouri te iwi Ko Whakamaharatanga te marae Ko Rikki-Leigh ahau. My name is Rikki-Leigh and I will be joining the Sunnyvale whanau in 2020. A little bit about me, my whanau originate from a small town named Herekino in the Far North. Sunnyvale Primary has always been special to me, it is where my four younger siblings were educated, the aroha and manaakitanga I felt and saw when my siblings came here really sealed my decision to become a teacher. Prior to studying to become a teacher, I worked in corporate finance for seven years and completed a Bachelor of Business but I always felt something was missing. Thankfully, I found it with the beautiful tamariki at Sunnyvale. I am really looking forward to a new adventure with you all.

Kim Muriwai
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Kim's bio

Ko Whakarongorua te maunga Ko Utukura te awa Ko Mokonuiarangi te marae Ko Kim Muriwai tēnei, he uri nō Ngāpuhi, e mihi ana ki a koutou. I have joined the Ngā Kākano whānau and work with both the tuakana and teina for three days a week. Most of my working life has involved teaching or creating resources to support the learning of te reo Māori. I’m enjoying supporting teachers to use more te reo Māori in their classrooms and home lives. I am from a family of teachers and was taught by both my parents in a small, rural school until I left for secondary school. My daughter and I live in Laingholm and enjoy having picnic dinners at the beach in summer. We also love visiting whānau in the Bay of Plenty and spending time in the North.

Sean Bishop
Room 10

Sean's bio

Hi I’m Sean, I love sports, technology, maths and science. I love challenging kids to try new things and learn new skills. I have a background in physical education, sports coaching and strength and conditioning. Being physically activity has always been a big part of my life and believe it should be for children also. I strongly feel technology should be used in the classroom as it is so integral to our society, I try to do this in ways that are only beneficial for the child and for learning in my classroom.

Jacqui Wickes
SENCO / Release Teacher / Librarian

Jacqui 's bio

Kia ora, my name is Jacqui Wickes. I started my teaching journey in 2000. I have taught in London, Malaysia and New Zealand, from new entrants to year 6. I am passionate about developing literacy skills in all tamariki and specialise in supporting children with dyslexia.

Brianna Kanaris
Room 8A

Sean Zhang
Room 8C

Ngā Kākano

Rikki-Leigh Smith
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Rikki-Leigh's bio

Caitlin Jessiman
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Caitlin 's bio

Kim Muriwai
Kaiako Ngā Kākano

Kim's bio

Nafanua

May Gaseata
Assistant Principal | Pohutukawa Team Leader | Faiaoga Nafanua

May's bio

Annie Wallbank
Faiaoga Nafanua

Annie's bio

Eric Chan-Foon
Faiaoga Nafanua

Eric's bio

Vaitoelau Ah Chee
Faiaoga Nafanua

Gyan Deep

Pushpa Ram
Gyan Deep (Hindi Bilingual)

Pushpa's bio

ESOL

Linda Watson
Senior Teacher ESOL

Linda's bio

Kia Ora, Talofa Lava, Ni Hao, Bula Vinaka, Namaste, Malo e Lelei, I am Linda and I have had many different roles here at Sunnyvale! Currently I am teaching ESOL groups and providing some learning support. I am interested in bilingual education and promoting first language use. I grew up in Napier and often visit my family there and am a hurricanes supporter!

Social Worker

Tanya Tapatuetoa
Social Worker

Tanya's bio

Fakaalofalahi atu Ko Tofua te waka Ko Uluvehi te maunga Ko Uluvehi te wai Ko ngati Niue me te Pakeha te iwi Ko Tanya Tapatuetoa taku ignoa. Kia ora koutou, I am a SWIS, social worker in three schools, in west Auckland. I am of Niuean and Pakeha descent. I have three adult children, two beautiful mokopuna . I am an experienced Social Worker and have worked at Auckland City Mission, CADS (Community Alcohol and Drug Services), Oranga Tamariki Specialist Teams and as a Social Worker in Schools. I aim to whakamanawa tamariki and whanau by providing a service that works in partnership to promote mauri-ora and wellbeing. As a SWIS, we can offer a range of services and therapeutic support for tamariki and whanau which include, but not limited to: Grief and loss, emotional regulation, advocacy, programmes, referrals for external support, one to one sessions, group work, internal counselling and budgeting referrals and information and advice. I will be based at Sunnyvale on Monday and Tuesdays. I am very excited to be a part of the Sunnyvale community and feel free to contact me if you have any questions

Release Teachers

Sue Gauntlett

Sue's bio

Hi, My name is Sue Gauntlett. I began my teaching career in West Auckland. I taught in a number of schools here and then spent a few years teaching in London before returning to West Auckland. I found my way to Sunnyvale, found a home and have been teaching here ever since. I enjoy welcoming new children to school and beginning them on their learning journey. It is great to see them develop confidence in themselves and beginning to learn to read and write.

Tupu Tuia

Tupu's bio

Tash Jamieson

Tash's bio

Vaiga Tino
Faiaoga Nafanua

Vaiga's bio

Caitlin Gabriel

Caitlin's bio

Kia Ora, my name is Caitlin Gabriel. I was born and raised in Auckland. I have been teaching our amazing Year 5/6s in the Sunnyvale Modern Learning Environment for two years now. I came here as a Student Teacher in 2017 and immediately felt a connection with the school culture, students, staff, families and whānau. I have a passion for building relationships and developing social and academic skills in our tamariki that will enable them to be lifelong learners. When I am not teaching I enjoy going to the beach, walking, having picnics, playing board games, reading and sharing a good meal with friends and family.

Special Programmes

Jacqui Wickes
SENCO

Jacqui 's bio

Nardia Turner
Learning Support Coordinator

Nardia's bio

Kia ora koutou, I am Whaea Nardia. I was born and raised in Grey Lynn and am of Bajan-Pākehā descent. I am excited to be joining the Sunnyvale team as the Learning Support Coordinator. I absolutely love teaching and have taught for over a decade across all year levels. I am passionate about inclusive education, nurturing a love of learning and partnering with whānau to support children in their unique learning journey. Outside of school I play football, listen to live music, love being creative and enjoy beach adventures with my husband and two children.

Office Administration

Juanita Olson
Accounts Administrator

Juanita's bio

Kia Ora, my name is Juanita and Im part of the Admin Team here at Sunnyvale School. I live in West Auckland and have done so all my life. I love being part of the Sunnyvale family, a great group of staff who work really hard for their students and community. When Im not at work I like catching up with family, watching sports (rugby / netball / softball) and travelling to my favourite place Whangamata

Chē Tiopira
Office Administrator

Chē's bio

Kia Ora e te Whanau, Ko Maungapohatu tōku maunga Ko Tauranga tōku awa Ko Mataatua tōku waka Ko Tuhoe tōku iwi Ko Tauanui tōku marae Ko Ché Tiopira ahau. I was born and raised in West Auckland and have worked at Sunnyvale School for over 9 years. I also attended Sunnyvale as a student. I have two Children, Rydah and Cole and two fur babies, Lunah and Lilo. I am the youngest of four children and I’m very lucky to get to work with my sister, Renee and niece, Naycha everyday. I have an awesome lot of people I get to laugh and work with everyday who are now apart of my extended whānau.

Lucas Hemi with assistants Cliffy and Shorty
Caretaker

Lucas's bio

Hi my name is Lucas Hemi, My wife is Susan Hemi. I started working at Sunnyvale in 2007 as the caretaker. My two assistants Cliffy & Shorty my dogs started in 2012. One of my favourite things to do is walk the dogs and support Manly Sea Eagles, something I’ve done since 1980.

Samson Curle-Carter
Caretaker Apprentice

Samson's bio

Kia ora, My name is Samson, I am a past student of Sunnyvale. I will now be an apprentice caretaker working with Mr Hemi. I have six brothers, three attending Sunnyvale and two in high school. Feel free to stop by and say hi.

Learning Support/ Kaiawhina

Renee Tiopira
Kaiāwhina / Whānau Support

Renee's bio

Kia ora, My name is Renee, I have had 2 children come through Sunnyvale and my daughter who is still currently here. I have worked at Sunnyvale for nearly 5 years.I love working with all our tamariki and whānau. Please don’t hesitate to stop in for a chat. ‘

Angela Frazer
Kaiāwhina

Angela's bio

My two now-adult children (past pupils of this school) my husband and I have been part of the Sunnyvale community close to 24 years, 15 of which have been dedicated to my work as a Teacher Aide at Sunnyvale Primary. I find it a huge privilege to work here, and I enjoy learning more every day along with our beautiful tamariki.

Joanna Pou
Kaiāwhina / Kitchen Manager

Joanna's bio

I have been involved with Sunnyvale Primary for over 20 years and have worked here for 6 years. My husband Steve and I have five children and four grandchildren. I love working at Sunnyvale Primary School with our amazing staff and wonderful children.

Karen Brosnahan
Learning Support

Karen's bio

I have worked at Sunnyvale as a Teacher Aide since 1996 supporting children in class and also taking groups of children helping with oral language and phonics. I love working with children and also work at our After School Care Programme and have been there since 2010. My 3 sons attended Sunnyvale for all their primary schooling which they loved.

Maree Bell
Kaiāwhina

Maree's bio

Hi I’m Maree, I come from Carterton.I have been working at Sunnyvale for five years. I have one son named Daniel and cat call Padmé.I love my miniature v8 mini, camping and travelling. If you see me around say hello.

Naycha Robarts
Kaiāwhina

Naycha's bio

Kia ora, My name is Naycha. I am a former student of Sunnyvale, as well as my two siblings. I have a four year old son. When I’m not working I like taking my son to the park and hanging out with family. Feel free to pop in and say hi!!

Flo Murray
Kaiāwhina / Board member

Flo's bio

Kia Ora, my name is Flo and I am Māori and Cook Island. I have had three of my older children come through Sunnyvale School. I have one daughter who currently attends. I am looking forward to working with all our school whānau and community.

Te Aroha Hemana
Kaimahi

Te Aroha's bio

Kia ora, My name is Te Aroha Hemana. I have 6 tamariki ranging from 2 to 20 years old, two of them are currently at Sunnyvale Primary. I work in the kitchen with Jo.

Stephanie Cox
Kaiāwhina

Stephanie's bio

Hi my name is Stephanie cox I’ve recently joined the Sunnyvale staff as a teacher aid/ kaiāwhina doing the rainbow reading programme as well as working in in- class support. I am a mum to a 7 year old daughter Peyton who is currently attending this school.

Tania Shannon
Kaimahi

Harrison Smith
Kaiāwhina

Harrison's bio

Tēnā koe Ko Ingarangi te whakapaparanga mai engari Ko Aotearoa toku whenua tupu Ko Tāmakimakaurau toku kāinga Ko Harrison tōku ingoa. Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tātou katoa Hey there, I’m Harrison Smith. I have recently joined the Sunnyvale team as a kaiāwhina/teacher aid. With three kids at Sunnyvale Primary, I’m excited to support both students and staff here.

Tegan Bhana
Kaiāwhina

Tegan's bio

Ko Mataitaua toku marae Ko Utakura toku awa Ko Whakarongorua toku maunga Ko Ngāpuhi toku iwi Ko Tegan toku ingoa Kia ora! My name is Tegan and I am a kaiāwhina working with our juniors. I am a proud Māmā of four tama – Lucas, Henry, Grayson and Hudson. You may have seen me around kura already as I love to attend Friday assembly. I am so excited to work with all the amazing staff and tamariki here at Sunnyvale. When I am not at mahi I love to watch rugby league (Up the Wahs) and spend time with my whānau. If you see me out and about, please come and say hello!

Lama Talatiu
Kaiāwhina

Lama's bio

Malo e Lelei, Fakaalofa lahi atu. I’m Lama, a proud West Auckland local with a rich Tongan and Niuean heritage. All three of my children have attended school here, and my youngest remains a student. I cherish family time, enjoy taking leisurely walks, and find joy in giving back to others. I am fortunate to be part of the Sunnyvale whānau, where I continue to learn and grow each day.

Rosemary Gale
Kaiāwhina

Rosemary's bio

Talofa lava! My name is Rosemary and I’m from Samoa. I moved to New Zealand at the end of 2024 with my family. I come from an IT background, but I’ve always had a strong interest in children’s education. I’m excited to be working as a Samoan-speaking Teacher Aide at Nafanua. I enjoy supporting students in their learning and helping them feel confident and valued, both in English and Samoan. I also have a daughter who attends Sunnyvale Primary and a son in kindergarten, which makes being involved in education even more meaningful to me as a parent.

Marvin Manibo
Kaiāwhina

Marvin 's bio

Kamusta, my name is Marvin. My family and I recently relocated to New Zealand, and I have a professional background in Architecture. I’m passionate about learning, exploring new experiences, and connecting with others. My son currently attends Sunnyvale School, and I would be glad to support and participate in school activities. If you happen to see me around, please don’t hesitate to say hello.

Board of Trustees

Philip Murray
Board Chair

Philip's bio

Hi, I’m Phil Murray — Board Chair. I’ve lived in Sunnyvale for over six years and have two kids at the school. Originally from Hamilton, I have a background in computer science and mathematics, and I love finding practical ways to help things run smoothly. I’m honoured to be part of the Board and to support our amazing leadership team in making sure all our kids have the best possible experience and opportunities.

Flo Murray
Kaiāwhina / Staff Rep

Flo's bio

Katie Pennicott
Principal

Katie's bio

Kia ora Ko Hikurangi te maunga Ko Waiapu te awa Ko Horouta te waka Ko Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Pākehā, Whenua Moemoea ngā iwi Tena koutou katoa Kia ora koutou, My name is Katie Pennicott (Whaea Katie) and I am your new principal. I am from Invercargill and I have been working in education for 21 years. I am thrilled to be here at Sunnyvale School, in beautiful Auckland. It has been a great pleasure to meet the wonderful students and staff, and I look forward to working with you all and learning together. Please feel welcome to get in touch at any time.

Maria Halligan
Board Member

Maria 's bio

Tēnā koutou katoa, Kō Maria Halligan tōku ingoa, he uri ahau nō Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāti Kahangunu ki Wairoa me Ngāti Porou ki Hauraki hoki. E mihi Ana kia koutou katoa. I am the proud māmā of Grayson—he is currently in Year 1 in the Ngā Kākano unit having started his haerenga at Sunnyvale in January 2025. Our whānau have deep roots in South Auckland where my husband and I have raised our three tamariki, and we now call Glen Eden home. I have an accounting background and spent over a decade working across Government Agencies. I currently work for Te Whānau o Waipareira leading our funding and contracting team. I am passionate about serving our community, leadership and governance, and outcomes through strengths-based strategy design. Outside of mahi, you’ll often find me on the sidelines of a netball court, rugby league, or enjoying summer sports and the beach. I believe in the power of whānau, in culture, and the importance of education, and I am honoured to contribute to Sunnyvale School through the school board. Ngā mihi Maria

Gloria Fuimaono
Board member

Gloria 's bio

Talofa lava malo le soifua, O lo’u igoa o Gloria Ruta Fuimaono (Lalomauga, Solosolo, Vailoa Palauli i Samoa ma Aukilani i Niu Sila). My name is Gloria Ruta Fuimaono, my parents are from the villages of Lalomauga, Solosolo and Vailoa Palauli in Samoa. I grew up on the North Shore, married a West Auckland Samoan from the villages of Lepa and Salani. We have 4 kids; the 2 oldest are here at Sunnyvale (Jairus and Quinn) in Nafanua. I am currently at home with my 6month old son. My background is in Education and Sociology. Prior to having baby, the last 10 years I worked in the Tech industry. Passionate about education and technology, equity and inclusion, culture and diversity. Look forward to working with our Sunnyvale school community. I le ava ma le faaaaloalo, Faafetai mo le avanoa

Sean Berry
Board member

Sean's bio

My name is Sean Berry, and I have two children with my eldest early in his education journey at Sunnyvale school. I am a consultant hydrogeologist working in the environmental engineering / construction sector. Originally from Taranaki, I completed all of my secondary/tertiary education in Auckland and have lived/worked in West Auckland for the last 10 years. Our school staff are a fantastic team, and I look forward to being able to support them through the BoT.

Andrew Simms
Board member

Andrew's bio

My two children, Mihi and Mana, attend Sunnyvale School. This year, I completed a University degree, majoring in Māori Studies and Art History. I am very community-minded and have been involved in local Sunnyvale stream restoration for over six years. I also sit on the board for a kindergarten association and attend a martial arts club.

Leadership Team

Kowhai

Nikau

Pohutukawa

Kauri

Ngā Kākano

Nafanua

Gyan Deep

ESOL

Social Worker

Release Teachers

Special Programmes

Office Administration

Learning Support/ Kaiawhina

Board of Trustees

Join our team