It takes a village to keep a kindy running and Kidsfirst is grateful to the relieving teachers who help make it happen every day.

This year we recognised four relievers across the Kidsfirst network as Ngā Whetū o Kidsfirst Uara – shining stars who lead the way in living our Uara Waypoints.

Shona, Donna, Rona and Irene are relieving teachers whose mahi helps keep our kindergartens humming no matter what is going on. They bring flexibility, years of teaching experience and the spirit of the Uara to the kindys they support, and help our 60-plus kindergartens to provide quality education to thousands of tamariki.

Shona is a go-to reliever, providing crucial support for our two Queenstown kindergartens. Always saying yes when possible – even covering Wakatipu and Frankton in one day – she builds meaningful relationships with tamariki and whānau. Her flexibility matters in a region where it can be hard to find qualified teachers. But Shona offers more than just availability – she brings genuine engagement to her work, developing strong relationships with children and their whānau. “Shona shows initiative and gets in and does what needs doing,” Kidsfirst kaiako Aimee explains.

We were proud to recognise Donna for her fantastic contributions as a relieving kaiako.

One of the marks of an exceptional reliever is how tamariki respond to their arrival. At the Christchurch kindergartens Donna supports, tamariki run to the gate when they see her coming. “Donna is an amazing reliever,” says Kidsfirst Avonhead kaiako Miranda. “In the spirit of manaakitanga she is always welcoming, hospitable and cares about tamariki, whānau and her fellow kaiako.” With extensive Kidsfirst experience, Donna embodies whakapono – walking the talk. She’s often requested by kindergarten teams in need of a helping hand and is known for her sense of whakamanamana – finding the joy in every kindy day.

Rona and her sister, Susan were together to celebrate her recognition.

Rona is one of scores of Kidsfirst relievers whose retirement from full-time teaching is just a change of pace and scene. Rona has been both a kaiako at Kidsfirst Hawthornden and an amazing day-to-day reliever all over Christchurch for many years. Kidsfirst Parklands kaiako Charlotte describes her as “A wonderful Kidsfirst role model and also someone who cares deeply about what it means to be a kaiako.” As well as sparking and nurturing a love of learning in tamariki, Rona brings aroha, manaakitanga, wisdom and laughter wherever she goes. Whether supporting wheelathons year after year, playing guitar at Christmas concerts, or sharing produce from her garden with families in need, Rona gives 100% to her mahi. Many tamariki now ask “Where is Rona and her guitar?” – proof of the lasting connections she creates. It’s easy to see why other kaiako describe her as a real gem.

Irene was recognised for her countless years of hard mahi.

Recognised by kaiako at both Hargest Crescent and Linwood, Irene is our fourth star reliever. “Irene consistently brings a very professional and committed approach,” says Jenny, a kaiako at Kidsfirst Linwood. “She comes with a kete of quality literature, games and experiences that truly spark imagination and exploration.” Kaiako Lara from Kidsfirst Hargest Crescent appreciates how Irene “quickly steps into any role and is able to confidently work alongside all tamariki. It’s always a joy when you read her name on the reliever text in the morning!” Irene’s positive attitude and ability to seamlessly integrate into any kindergarten team while maintaining high standards are a hallmark of her commitment to whakapono.