Koru

Kia ora ki a koutou! Ko Mathew O’Hagan ahau. I’m excited to be joining the Tītahi Bay team in ’23. I was born in Porirua, and grew up here and in Kāpiti. After university in Wellington, I jetted away from Aotearoa for what ended up being 18 years abroad (22.5 if you count time in Auckland ). I’ve been a teacher for 24 good years (and in five different countries). It’s so good to be back home. Now I live in Plimmerton with my partner and little dog. I love long walks, the beach, books, the bush and TRAVEL. I was inspired to get into teaching by the Mahatma Gandhi quote: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world”. I am passionate about tamariki, kaiako, strong and healthy communities, Aotearoa, New Zealand, and the power of education in enabling all to achieve their highest potential. Hāpaitia te ara tika pūmau ai te rangatiratanga mō ngā uri whakatipu: Foster the pathway of knowledge to strength, independence and growth for future generations.
Looking forward to meeting you all soon!

Kia ora! Kō Charlotte tōku ingoa. This year sees me enter my sixth year at Tītahi Bay School and still loving it as much as my first. Born and raised in Johnsonville, I love the opportunity to come out into this wee slice of paradise for my mahi to work with the best kids on the planet! Outside of the classroom, you will often catch me on the weekends sipping coffee in Wellington’s best cafes and catching up with friends or down at the local gym. In addition to working with my year 3 class, I can often be found singing a tune with our senior school choir – my own wee side project I have directed for the last three years! However, what I love most about our school are the people; the colleagues I get to work alongside, the whānau I get to meet, and most of all the kids who make each day FUN. I’m grateful to work in such a wonderful community and continue to look forward to what tomorrow brings.

Kia ora koutou. Kō Natalie tōku ingoa.
I entered Tītahi Bay School as a trainee teacher four years ago, and have enjoyed every minute. My love for the Bay was undeniable so I moved here shortly after my teaching career began. I have a huge passion for the outdoors. If you don’t see me working up a sweat at the gym, you may find me down at the beach on my paddle board or climbing up Rangituhi. Prior to teaching I taught dancing, so I will never shy away from a dance battle on the back court. I believe if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. All tamariki are born to be great! With the right support and a positive learning environment, there is no doubt they will shine and be the best versions of themselves they can be.