Our teachers

At Rutherford Street Kindergarten, all of our kaiako are passionate about upholding the vision of Te Whāriki: Our Early Childhood Curriculum to support children to be competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body and spirit, secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valued contribution to society.

Amber Rae

Centre Manager (on Maternity leave)
Bachelor in Teaching Early Childhood Education
Post Graduate Diploma in Leadership (ECE)
Registered and first aid holder

I was born in Tāmaki Makaurau but have lived in Nelson for over 10 years and now consider Te Tau Ihu home. I am currently on maternity leave with my first child and am looking forward to returning to the centre soon.

I have been the centre manager and senior teacher here at Rutherford Street Kindergarten since February 2023 and have over 8 years of experience in the early childhood sector. My teaching philosophy is based on warm, reciprocal relationships, the importance of free play and supporting tamariki to grow and learn in a safe, caring and exciting environment. I believe in free play and the positive effects of learning through play for all tamariki. As a professional leader, I am committed to supporting the wonderful kaiako at Rutherford Street Kindergarten to offer an environment that encourages rich play, growth and learning for ngā tamariki.

Dominique Cronje

Centre Manager
Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Registered and first aid holder

I have recently stepped into the Centre Manager role here at Rutherford Street Kindergarten, and I feel genuinely privileged to be part of this community. I have worked as a kaiako in Whakatū for the past four years, following a significant career change from five years in aquaculture research and development. During my time in the science sector, I strengthened
my appreciation for curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving. These strengths, combined with my passion for fostering curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, shape the way I support our tamariki mā.

My philosophy is grounded in Te Whāriki and in building warm, reciprocal relationships with tamariki and their whānau. I believe children thrive when they feel a strong sense of belonging, when their identity, language, and culture are genuinely honoured, and when they are empowered as competent, capable learners.

As a leader, I am committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for kaiako, one where we learn together, reflect together, and uphold high-quality, play-based teaching that supports every child to reach their full potential. I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to continuing our collective journey of nurturing, discovery, and growth.

Tina Shirley

Teacher
Bachelor of Teaching and Learning – Early Childhood Education.

Registered and first aid holder

I was born in Nelson and live in Atawhai with my partner, Tony and cat Coco.

I completed my Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) at the end of 2015 (through Canterbury University).

I started with Rutherford Street Kindergarten in 2016 and I work on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

My interests include travel, tramping, mountain biking, touch rugby, skiing, fun runs and the odd adventure racing event. I enjoy art and craft activities, cake decorating, cooking and sewing.

I’m passionate about tamariki learning to develop warm reciprocal relationships and treating each other with respect. I endeavour to help foster independence and a “love of learning” in a calm, nurturing environment … while also having fun!

Hannah Lee

Teacher Support

I have been enjoying working with all the amazing children, teachers

and families here at RSK for over 10 years. 

I’m originally from Korea, where I completed a degree in Christian Education. Through my involvement in church, I have had a number of roles in education, including developing programs for kindergarten children.

My three daughters have a passion for music – they are skilled pianists and organists

and contribute their skills throughout the community.

In my spare time, I enjoy tramping with my family. Milford Track was the most enjoyable walk I’ve done.

My focus at RSK is to support the children in every way that I can, and maximise the fun and enjoyment that they experience here.

 

Jess Gilbertson

Admin

I am the Office Administrator at Rutherford Street Kindergarten.
I have lived in the Nelson region for some time and love all it has to offer in the way of outdoor adventures. I have two children, and we enjoy walking, biking, skiing and swimming at the local beaches and rivers.
I really enjoy being part of the team here at RSK and look forward to getting to know the children and their families.