Our Team

Nirvana Wi Neera

Kia ora koutou, ko Whaea Nirvana ahau.

I have a love for reo Māori and performing arts. Travelling the world sharing our culture has been a highlight and now I get to share that with the tamariki in our kura.

I have worked in iwi education for over 5 years and am passionate about seeing our ākonga achieve success by being who they are.

Bachelor of Arts (Education, Māori, Psychology), Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), Bachelor of Performing Arts, Master of Education.

Kaiako | Coach

Ramari Spain

Kia ora everyone, ko Whaea Ramari ahau.

A passionate educator with over 15 year’s experience, I bring a background in elite sport where I combined my love for health and wellbeing with sports science before moving into the classroom.

My commitment to rangatahi drives me to weave the wisdom of our tūpuna with the modern world, with the hope of making a meaningful difference in the lives of every young person who enters our kura.

Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary), Master of Kinesiology and Sports Science.

Kaiako | Coach

Dr Suskya Goodall

Kia ora, ko Suskya ahau.

Of Dutch and Kāi Tahu heritage, I bring experience across both primary and secondary teaching and leading. I have a strong passion for learning support and working alongside young people and their whānau.

My research focuses on nurturing individual and collective wellbeing within school communities. I'm excited to be part of Kura Toa and their commitment to student and teacher wellbeing through their innovative approach.

Bachelor of Arts (Maths, History), Bachelor of Teaching (Primary and Secondary Education), Master of Education, PhD (Education)

Education Partner

Kia ora, ko Erica ahau.

I am passionate about ensuring every child has the support and opportunities to thrive, and I love being part of the Ngāti Toa team backing our tamariki to succeed.

I've played rugby and basketball regionally, and nowadays enjoy CrossFit, AFL or anything active. Being of Chinese heritage, I value helping kids feel proud of who they are and the strengths they bring to their community.

Bachelor of Arts (Education, Psychology), Master of Educational Developmental Psychology, Postgraduate Diploma Educational Psychology Practice.

Educational Psychologist

Erica Blundell

Kia ora, Ko Whaea Calisa tēnei.

With over 10 years in iwi education I have seen the growth of this space over the years and it’s exciting!

I whakapapa to Ngāti Toa and Tahiti and feel proud that this is part of my identity. When I’m not working, I love a weekend camp, spending time with my growing whānau or taking on a good reno project.

Bachelor of Arts (Education), Postgraduate Certificate in Leading Change, Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management.

Education Manager

Calisa Hippolite

Bianca Elkington

Kia ora everyone. Ko Bianca ahau.

Raised in Takapūwāhia I have had the privilege of receiving many life lessons from those around me. My passion for education comes from my own experience as a learner who saw the disconnect between home and school.

My life’s work will be to support every child to have access to an education that is meaningful and connected. I’m most happy among our youth, listening and learning from all they have to offer.

Bachelor of Arts (Education), Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Primary), Master of Education, PhD – candidate.