Diploma of Teaching (ECE) / 301330

Kia Ora Whanau

My name is Denise Beatson and I’m excited to be joining the Awhina team. I have previously worked  at Awhina and then on to Awhina Pepi, so I’m sure I will see some familiar faces.

 I have over 25 years experience in ECE  at a variety of centres and with all ages under 5. I am passionate about forming respectful relationships and supporting children and their families.

I have 3 daughters aged 21, 19, 14 who keep me busy and I enjoy walking  and biking the lovely trails, HB has to offer. I enjoy gardening and socialising with friends and family.

I look forward to supporting the Awhina team and children and their families.

Arohanui

Denise 

Kia Ora!

My name is Lena Holzwarth, I’m 28 years old, and originally from Germany. I recently moved to New Zealand after falling in love with the country during my travels. I’m passionate about nature and love spending time outdoors, so I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to work in this beautiful, home- and nature-based environment.

From a young age, after completing internships in kindergartens and schools in Germany, I knew I wanted to work with children. In 2019, I completed my three-year dual studies to become an early childhood teacher in Germany, and since then, I’ve gained five years of experience in various childcare settings.

Music is one of my great passions – I play drums and guitar, and I believe it’s a fantastic way to engage and support children. In my teaching, I focus on providing a respectful, nurturing environment where children’s curiosity and individuality are celebrated, allowing them to grow at their own pace.

I’m excited to continue my career here in New Zealand and look forward to being a part of your child’s learning journey.

Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) / 323825

Kia Ora Whanau!

My name is Lucie, born & bred in Hawkes Bay. I have been teaching in primary schools for the last 10 years. I have taught in Auckland & in the UK but most recently with new entrants in Hastings at Frimley School. I have also recently completed my Steiner teaching certificate at Taruna.

I am so excited to be moving into the early years and being part of the magic and fun that this age group brings - and what a beautiful setting to be doing that in, at Āwhina.

Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) / 415660

Kia Ora!  

My name is Meg, and I have recently graduated from EIT with a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood). I am lucky to call Hawke’s Bay home and have a strong passion for Surf Life Saving at Ocean Beach, which I have been a part of for almost 13 years. I also love to take advantage of all the beautiful hikes we have here and spending time with my -tdog Albie! 

For me, respectful practice is at the forefront of everything I do. I believe that children deserve to learn within a calm, unhurried environment where their development unfolds naturally, and their curiosities and unique dispositions are celebrated. Emmi Piklers approach to infant care is one which resonates with me and has helped create my personal philosophy for teaching.  

I feel incredibly privileged that I have the opportunity to begin my teaching career here at Awhina and look forward to meeting you all and being a part of your child’s learning journey! 

Kia Ora!

My name is Skye, and I am the cook at Āwhina. I have 5 years’ experience working in an ECE setting and since becoming a part of Āwhina whānau, I have discovered my passion for cooking. Providing our tamariki with delicious, nutritious food to fuel their growing bodies and minds brings me great joy.

I have lived in Hawke’s Bay my entire life and I absolutely love being a part of our amazing community. At home, my husband and I have five kids and our fur baby Kallo. In my spare time I enjoy exploring our local bush and beaches with my family.

I am super excited to be a part of the Āwhina whānau and look forward to sharing this journey with all our wonderful tamariki and whānau.

Head of Education / 236527

Sharni leads education across all Rockmybaby/Awhina centres, supporting teams to deliver high-quality teaching and learning. She works closely with centre leaders and teachers to strengthen practice, guide curriculum, and ensure consistent, child-centred outcomes.

Education Team Leader / 334337

Angela works alongside Sharni to support education quality across all centres. As Education Team Leader, she partners with centre teams to strengthen teaching practice, support curriculum delivery, and promote consistent, high-quality learning experiences for children.