Our People

Samantha Ives, Centre Manager

Kia ora, I am Sam and I am the centre manager for Lollipops
Waiwhetu. I have been teaching for the past 12+ years since
completing my bachelors degree in early childhood education at
Victoria University. I love making great spaces for children, where
they can grow, learn and develop. Community is so important in
the love and care of our Tamariki and I do this through developing
strong relationships. My husband and I have 3 daughters, Harper,
Elsie and Poppy and they are my world. Majority of my spare time
is spent with them and our extended family.

Malia Taito, Assistant Centre Manager

Kia ora, Hello and Talofa Lava! My name is Malia Taito, I am
Samoan and hold a fully qualified New Zealand teachers
registration in early childhood education. I have been involved in
the early learning sector for nearly 30 years and have been
teaching and involved in a few centres around the Hutt Valley area.
I am very passionate about learning and getting to know different
cultures including Te Reo Maori. I am a big fan of using natural
resources and loose parts where tamariki can be supported and
encouraged to use their own working theories on how things work.

Lauren Shrugg, Team Leader

Kia ora, my name is Lauren and I am one of the kaiako here at
Lollipops Waiwhetu. I have been teaching for over 20 years with
experience in all age groups. My real passion lies with infants and
toddlers and this is my favourite age group to work with.

I live in Lower Hutt with my husband, 3 children and our Samoyed (dog). In my spare time, I enjoy exploring new places with my family and finding a quiet moment to enjoy a new book.