OUR PEOPLE / Ā TĀTOU
Meet the Team
MARTY HANTZ- Tumuaki / Principal
Email: principal@taradaleint.school.nz
It is always exciting being in any field of education but to be the Tumuaki of Te Kura Takawaenga ō Ōtātara is indeed a privilege. I have extensive leadership experience, this being my fourth principalship over the last twenty three years, much of which has been involved with the wonderful year 7–8 rangatahi. I love the challenge that Year 7 and 8s bring, with its mixture of youth, self-awareness and energy all captured within a two year period.
My mantra of “Good to Great, Great to Excellent” means that I’m ever striving to provide our tamariki with the best possible education, academic and social opportunities, whist empowering all of those who work with and alongside our ākonga / learners to be at their very best too. I love agentic learning!
Though I may be small in stature, you will see me, or hear me, around our kura constantly.
ROBYN EDDY - Tumuaki Tuarua / Deputy Principal
Email: robyne@taradaleint.school.nz
I've spent most of my teaching career, teaching at intermediate level so YES I definitely have a passion for this age group. The challenges and rewards they bring add up to an amazing journey over the 2 years that ākonga are with us. My passions in education lie in the fields of maths, inquiry and digital technologies - providing ākonga with the attributes to thrive in the changing world they are growing up in. It is great being part of a dynamic school that sees teaching and learning as a collaborative partnership between the learner, the kaiako, the whānau and the wider community.
COLE PAIGE - Tumuaki Tuarua / Deputy Principal
EMAIL: colep@taradaleint.school.nz
It is a privilege to be part of the Taradale Intermediate team who work tirelessly to serve our community. Working with emerging adolescents brings its own challenges but many rewards as this age group transition from being children into teenagers, and the complexities this brings. Foundational to my work are the relationships I build with ākonga and whānau ensuring the best possible outcomes for everyone. I’m excited by the direction the school is heading in and believe we provide an educational setting where we work hard to grow our ākonga into the best version of themselves that they can be.
VIV LE COMTE - SENCO / Learning Support Co-Ordinator
EMAIL: vivl@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora koutou katoa!
My name is Viv LeComte and I am the SENCO. I have been at our kura for 14 years as a classroom teacher and Team Leader. My role involves working alongside kaiāwhina and kaiako to ensure great outcomes for our ākonga.
I also enjoy spending time with my family, gardening, and heading into the great outdoor, a good book is always nearby!
HUGH REED - Mohaka Team Leader - Room 9
hughr@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora koutou, Ko Hugh Reed toku ingoa. I have been at Taradale Intermediate for 9 and a half years and love teaching intermediate-aged learners. I look forward to working with whānau, fellowkaiako, and ākonga towards meeting Rm 9 ākonga goals. When I am not at school I am kept busy with my three children aged 8, 6, and 3. I used to play a lot of Rugby and am still involved as I now do some junior coaching for my boys. I play tennis and football now and enjoy most sports. I moved to Hawkes Bay in 2008 and have lived here ever since. Originally, I am from Darfield, which is a little country town in Canterbury.
JAIMEE LACK - Room 7
jaimeel@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora! Ko Jaimee Lack tōku ingoa. I’m excited to be teaching in Room 7 this year. I’ve been teaching at Taradale Intermediate for over 7 years now. As an ex-student of this kura, TIS will always be a special place for me. I absolutely love teaching this age group and I’m passionate about helping students to reach their goals. Some of my passions are maths, health, PE, science and EOTC. Before I started my teaching career, I spent many years working and travelling overseas. Outside of the classroom, you’ll find me making special memories with whānau and friends. My husband and I are blessed to have two beautiful children, which keep us busy. I also enjoy cooking, painting, cake decorating, swimming, camping and travelling. I’m looking forward to a busy and exciting year in Room 7.
KATIE MOODIE- Room 2
katiem@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora!
Ko Katie tōku ingoa.
I am excited to be back teaching after having 8 months off for maternity leave with my son Jett! This is my 7th year of teaching at Taradale Intermediate. I have two boys- Ky who is 3 years old and Jett who is 8 months old. I am passionate about sports, particularly Netball, Basketball and swimming. In my spare time I love to be at the beach, in the water and spending time with my whānau
ROB DOOLAN- Room 8
robd@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia Ora, Ko Rob Doolan tōku ingoa. I joined Taradale Intermediate midway through 2025, teaching in Room 8 as part of Mohaka. I have been teaching for 12 years now both overseas and in NZ. I enjoy teaching Year 7 and 8’s, challenging students to reach their learning goals. I enjoy teaching math's, PE and different inquiry subjects.
Outside of the classroom I live with my wife and our two boys who keep us busy. When we are not busy as a family I enjoy watching and taking part in sports. I grew up in a football mad family, so it makes sense that this is now my passion, I have actively coached across all levels of the game for 25 years. I am looking forward to an exciting time at TIS.
NIKKI WILSON - Tareha Team Leader Room 21
Ko Nikki Wilson tōku ingoa.
I have been teaching at Taradale Intermediate since 2019, balancing my love of teaching with raising my two children, Miles (3) and Hazel (1). I enjoy sports, especially netball, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
In the classroom, I aim to create learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, build collaboration, and give students the confidence to take charge of their learning. I’m excited to get to know each of my students and help them explore their skills, passions, and potential throughout the year. You'll find me in Room 21 four days a week, from Tuesday to Friday and Kirst Demanser-Wilson will be teaching in Room 21 on Mondays.
SETH TAYLOR - Room 22
Kia ora e te whānau! Ko Seth tōku ingoa.
I am super excited to be joining Taradale Intermediate as a beginning teacher, more so as I attended TIS growing up, before graduating from the University of Otago. During my studies, I developed a deep enthusiasm for working with intermediate-aged students and I am looking forward to being a part of a highly warm and welcoming environment and community.
I am very passionate about literacy, mathematics, and physical education, as well as playing, creating, and teaching music. In the classroom, I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and culturally responsive environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and whanaungatanga, where all identities can thrive. In my spare time, I love writing and playing music, and I also find joy in surfing, tramping, playing sports, and all things outdoors! I am eager and excited to continue the journey of learning alongside a wonderful team of kaiako, and to build strong relationships with ākonga.
ADELE DAVIS - Room 23
Kia ora! Ko Adele Davis tōku ingoa. I’m excited to be teaching in Room 23 this year alongside our amazing Tareha team! This is my 3rd year at Taradale Intermediate and I love teaching intermediate aged learners. I am passionate about dance, literacy, P.E and health and helping students to reach their goals. Outside of the classroom, you’ll find me spending time with my three beautiful tamariki and partner. I also enjoy reading, going to the gym, walking and spending time at the beach with my loved ones. I’m looking forward to a busy and exciting year in Room 23!
KAREN HOGG - Room 24
karenh@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora koutou, ko Karen tōku ingoa. I’m an experienced classroom teacher and have been teaching at TIS for a number of years. This year, I’m excited to be working in Room 24 as well as supporting candidate teachers as a mentor teacher. I’m dedicated to helping ākonga grow into confident, resilient learners who think critically and problem solve, while also building strong, trusting relationships and keeping high expectations. I enjoy teaching literacy, science and technology and Japanese. Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, going for walks, watching a good movie, travelling, and anything involving chocolate!
LOUISE GRAY - Team Leader Tākitimu Room 13
Kia ora, my name is Louise and I teach in Room 13. 2026 is my 12th year at Taradale Intermediate. My passions are Maths, Health, PE and EOTC. I love teaching this age group and am excited to be part of Tākitimu. My interests out of school are all sports, reading, keeping active and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to another fantastic year of learning, sporting and cultural opportunities at Taradale Intermediate.
LEAH BREEDS - Room 12 and Performing Arts
leahb@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora, my name is Leah Breeds and this year I'm excited to be taking on a dual teaching role. I have been teaching at TIS for far too many years to count because it's a great school with awesome students and I can't think of anywhere else I'd like to teach! This year I am sharing the teaching of room 12 with James while we are also sharing delivery of the arts curriculum through our Innovation programme. If I'm not in room 12, you'll find me in the Performing Arts space, either teaching music or running one of our many cultural extra curriculars such as orchestra, choir, and dance. One of my other passions is language and language learning and I have a BA in linguistics and French alongside my teaching qualification. Looking forward to a fantastic 2026!
JAMES BEAVAN - Room 12 and Visual Arts
jamesb@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora! Ko James toku ingoa. I am in my third year at Taradale Intermediate. I am excited to be starting in a kura and team full of passionate, knowledgeable and supportive people. I have recently returned to NZ after being abroad in Germany for 10 years. I have a background in visual arts and have a love of both maths and creative writing. When I’m not at school I’m busy on creative projects, out hiking, biking, at the beach, or reading a good book.
CAITLIN KRUGER - Room 15
caitlink@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora, my name is Caitlin Kruger. This is my eighth year teaching at TIS. As part of my leadership learning, I am the teacher responsible for implementing HERO in classrooms and supporting culturally sustaining communities across the school.
In my classroom, I value hands-on learning, music, and plenty of laughter. I enjoy creating a positive environment with a good sense of humour, where learners feel safe to take risks and be themselves.
I am passionate about kapa haka, Te Reo Māori, and English. Outside of school, I play netball and touch for Eskview, enjoy going to the beach, and love spending time with friends and family.
I can’t wait to see what 2026 has to bring.
LEANNE HANSON - Room 17
Kia ora! Ko Leanne toku ingoa. I have been teaching at TIS for a few years now as I absolutely enjoy this Year 7/8 age group and what our kura can offer them. I'm passionate about literacy, inquiry learning and wellbeing. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family, walking, catching up with friends and relaxing with a great novel.
BROOKE EXETER - Room 18
Kia Ora!
Ko Brooke Exeter tōku ingoa.
This year I am beginning my teaching career in Room 18 at Taradale Intermediate, where I happen to be an ex-student! Being a recent graduate from the University of Canterbury, I am excited to continue growing my practice and build strong relationships with ākonga and whānau. I love teaching this year group and strive to create environments where tamariki feel valued and confident to take risks.
I am passionate about Literacy, the Performing Arts, Health & P.E and Te Reo Māori. Outside of school I enjoy going on walks, playing netball, hanging with friends, and listening and dancing to music. I also love spending time with family at the beach and my cat Max.
I am looking forward to working alongside the team in Tākitimu, and having a busy and fun year in Room 18!
NIKKI SHAKESHAFT - Kaiārahi/ Team Leader Kaweka Room 1
Kia ora e te whānau. Ko Nikki Shakeshaft tōku ingoa. I am excited to be teaching in Room 1 this year. I have been a part of the TIS community since 2004, working across a range of roles. I am passionate about learner agency, learning through inquiry as well as Social Sciences and History. I value connection, curiosity, and creating spaces where learners feel empowered to explore. This year I am fortunate to be leading and working alongside the Kaweka team of Kaiako who are a talented bunch of amazing people.
Outside of school, most of my time is spent with my family, especially supporting my daughter in her dancing and football. I am also a bit of a foodie. Life at home is lively thanks to our two dogs Walt and Ted Sheeran. I am excited to see what 2026 brings.
MATT MURTHA - Room 3
Kia Ora, my name is Matt Murtha and I am in my seventh year of teaching. I began my journey teaching in Auckland for two years before returning to Hawke’s Bay in 2019 where I was at Hastings Central School. I am very excited to be teaching here at Taradale Intermediate where I was a student. I am very passionate about sports, especially Rugby, Basketball and Cricket, and I play rugby for the Napier Pirates Rugby Club. I really enjoy teaching mathematics and also P.E, as I love to get kids active through sports and recreation. I am looking forward to being a part of Taradale Intermediate Community and Mohaka whānau kura.
Gabby Anderton - Room 4
gabriellea@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora koutou!
Ko Gabrielle tōku ingoa, ko Gabby rānei.
This year I join Taradale Intermediate as a beginning teacher. I am excited to continue my journey as a kaiako after recently graduating from EIT. During my second year of study, TIS was my placement school, where I discovered a strong passion for working with this age group. I am thrilled to be returning to such a welcoming and supportive school community.
I am particularly passionate about the social sciences, literacy, and creating a culturally responsive classroom that values identity, belonging, and connection.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with whānau and friends, and I am actively involved with the Philippine Community of Hawke’s Bay, where I serve as secretary. As I step into my role as a beginning teacher, I see myself as a learner alongside my ākonga, embracing ako as we grow together.
He manu hou ahau, he pī ka rere.
AYNZLEIGH ABBOTT- Room 5
aynzleigha@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora! Ko Aynzleigh tōku ingoa.
I am looking forward to returning to TIS after being on maternity leave for 9 months after having my surprise baby Maverick. II am really looking forward to being back in Room 5 this year and in the Kaweka team. I enjoy playing netball, photography, creativity, and being out in nature.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with Maverick, time on the farm, hunting, mountain biking, riding dirt bikes, and trips around the country to see my friends and family.
I am looking forward to reconnecting and getting to know more of the TIS community.
BRITTNEY STANFORD- Room 6
brittneys@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora! Ko Brittney tōku ingoa. I am an experienced classroom teacher and I love teaching the intermediate age group. I am very passionate about Literacy, PB4L, providing opportunities for learners here at TIS and encouraging all learners to be the best they can be. 2026 is looking to be a busy year with some exciting topics on the horizon and I can't wait to see what our learners come up with.
In my spare time, I enjoy playing netball, reading a good book and spending time with family.
Looking forward to seeing you all around our kura this year!
INNOVATION CENTRE TEAM
MANDY BARBER - Innov8 Team Leader
Kia Ora Koutou. My name is Mandy Barber and I am a proud and member of the Technology team. I've taught TIS learners for a long while now and I have spent some time teaching overseas too. You can find me in the Innovation Centre where I have the privilege of providing ākonga with the opportunity to design and create products using a range of natural products, fabric and hard materials with Te Pūhiko Raranga team. My teaching passions lie with technology, science, maths and EOTC. I love helping students learn how to make sense of the world they live in and encourage them to improve it for our future. In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors, mountain biking, playing and coaching hockey, going to the gym, reading and travelling whenever I can.
SIMON LORD
simonl@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora whānau,
My name is Simon Lord. I’m passionate about teaching, coaching, and creating hands on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, independence, and resilience.
Alongside coaching rugby, I have a strong interest in robotics and technology, where I support our ākonga to think for themselves, take risks, make mistakes, and learn through doing. Some of the best learning happens in the pit when things don’t quite work and problem solving kicks in. I’ve lived in Napier most of my life with my family and I’m proud to be part of our kura community. I’m looking forward to working with our ākonga, whānau, and staff this year.
Ngā mihi,
Matua Simon
KELLY HUTCHESON
Hi, ko Kelly Hutcheson tōku ingoa. After eight years in the classroom at Taradale Intermediate - including both single-cell and collaborative spaces - I’m excited to join the Innovation Centre this year as part of the Technology team, teaching Food Technology and Hospitality. I love working alongside others and I’m looking forward to collaborating in a new space.
Before teaching, I worked in a variety of hospitality roles after moving from England to New Zealand in 2007, and I’m keen to bring those real-world experiences into the kitchen.
Outside Technology, I have a long-standing passion for maths, enjoy supporting the performing arts, and hope to get choir running again in 2026. Looking forward to a fantastic year!
HANNAH LEADBETTER
Kia ora, Ko Hannah Leadbetter tōku ingoa.
I am a ‘people person’ who thrives on the collegiality and collaboration that comes with working as part of a team. You’ll find me in Room 11, diving into all things digital and creative.
I’ve had the privilege of teaching for 16 incredible years, and I can truly say that teaching is not just a job for me, it’s my passion. Over the years, I’ve worked with students across all year levels, from Year 0 through to intermediate, and I’ve been honoured to witness countless moments of growth and achievement.
My teaching philosophy is rooted in kindness, nurturing, and fun. I believe that students flourish when they enjoy the learning process and feel supported through positive relationships. Every day, I aim to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, inspired, and curious to explore. It’s an honour to be part of their educational journey, and I am committed to making a meaningful, lasting impact in their lives.
To me, education isn’t a destination or an arrival point, it’s a lifelong learning experience.
Mā te wā - See you soon!
ANITA BORGER
anitab@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora e te whānau, my name is Anita Borger and I am an Innovation Practitioner in Te Pūhiko Raranga. I am excited to collaborate with students and support their creativity and innovation in this dynamic space. Seeing their ideas come to life is truly inspiring!
Originally from Palmerston North, I have lived in Napier for the past 7 years with my family and love being part of this vibrant community. I look forward to fostering curiosity and exploration in our learners as we navigate the ever-evolving world of technology and design together.
KIRSTEN DEMANSER-WILSON
kirstend@taradaleint.school.nz
I have been part of the teaching staff at TIS for many years, as I have a real passion for teaching this age group. In 2026, I am teaching the P.U.N.K (Physical Understanding & nutritional knowledge) programme. This class focus is delving deeper and learning about healthy food options, what nutrients are in our food and learning more about the digestive system. The specialist Physcial Education focus is cycling skills and Table Tennis skills. I will also be continuing to teach the Sports Challenge class on Fridays.
In addition, I coordinate all sport and EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom) programmes at Taradale Intermediate. I am passionate about supporting our learners to live healthy lifestyles, make positive choices, and incorporate daily physical activity into their lives through sport and recreation.
Outside of school, I enjoy mountain biking, running, tramping, reading, kayaking, and canoe polo.
TEACHING and LEARNING SUPPORT TEAM
LYNLEY BRINSLEY
Staff Release and External Technology
Kia ora koutou. I am Mrs Lynley Brinsley, and I have been at TIS for many years now and enjoy working with Intermediate ākonga. Recently I have been involved in Visual arts, Performing Arts, and Biotechnology and I am now workign with our beginnign teachers and external technology students. Hawkes Bay has been my home for forty-four years, and I can’t think of a better place to call home.
NIKKI RENCKEN
nikkir@taradaleint.school.nz
Staff Release and Fabric Technology
Kia ora, ko Nikki toku ingoa. I am delighted to be the most recent addition to the Taradale Intermediate School whanau. At the moment, my days are spent teaching in a variety of teaching spaces and providing much sought-after release time to senior staff members. My roll also includes regular mahi in Fabric Technology and Music classes, which I thoroughly enjoy.
Outside of school hours, my interests are many and varied. Some examples are sound engineering, gardening, hobby farming, singing, playing music, baking, knitting and sewing, writing and spending time with my 4 mokos. I am excited to settle in and become an active part of school life at Taradale Intermediate.
NATALIE WADSWORTH
nataliew@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora whānau. Ko Natalie tōku ingoa. I've been a part of the TIS whānau for 11 years! I’m excited to be starting back up at TIS after a year on maternity leave. I’m passionate about creating opportunities for learners to take charge of their learning and push themselves into their learning zone. This year, I will spending time in most classrooms, and I look forward to getting to know the learners.
Outside of school, you will find me hanging out with whānau and friends, going to the gym, going for walks, being creative, making sourdough and finding bargains at the op shops!
MELANIE BROOKS
melanieb@taradaleint.school.nz
TANIA WALTERS
taniaw@taradaleint.school.nz
HEATH HOOPER
heathh@taradaleint.school.nz
DAVID BREEDS - Office Manager
EMAIL: davidb@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora. I have been a part of the office team for a few years now. In my role I support the admin team, teachers, and learners at Taradale Intermediate. I am often the first point of contact for the school as I am found at the front desk in reception. When not working I'm probably taking part in one of my geeky hobbies - board games, TTRPG, video games or watching musicals.
SONJA FARR - Finance Management, SMS, Admin
EMAIL: sonjaf@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia ora, I have worked at TIS for many years now, providing administrative support for our amazing kura. In my non-working life I enjoy travel, walking, reading and gardening.
JAYDE CORLETT - Principal's PA
EMAIL: jaydec@taradaleint.school.nz
JOANNE WOOLLEY - Pastoral Care
EMAIL: joannew@taradaleint.school.nz
Kia Ora. My name is Jo Woolley and I have proudly been a part of theTaradale Intermediate School team for the last 19 years. My key role is to support and guide the social, physical, and emotional needs of our learners, their families, and staff. I consider myself very fortunate to work with a fantastic group of learners and adults in a warm, welcoming, and dynamic environment. Outside of school I like to cook, take my dog for walks, travel and spend time with family and friends.
LYNE LINDSAY - Librarian
CORRINA BLAND - Lead Kaiāwhina
Being a Learning Assistant at TIS provides me the opportunity and privlidge of working with both our amazing learners and an awesome teaching staff. I have worked in schools in Auckland, Ireland and now here in the beautiful Hawkes Bay where I share my life with my partner and our two gorgeous girls. Being a Learning Assistant at TIS provides me the opportunity and privilege of working with our amazing learners, teachers and support staff.
MICHELLE HALL - Kaiāwhina
JACK PAIGE - Kaiāwhina
Kia Ora. My name is Jack and I am excited to begin my fourth year at TIS as a learning assistant. I enjoy working with this age group immensely. They are keen and interested learners and I feel proud of the progress that I can help support them achieve. Outside of work I live with my whānau and two crazy dogs; Jessie and Frankie. I enjoy travel, movies, reading and hanging out with friends.
LISA SOMERVELL - Kaiāwhina
Hi I'm Lisa... outside of school I love being with my family. We enjoy camping, going to the river and walking our 2 dogs. We are a hockey family, so often down at the turf. I enjoy being around my friends and making new connections. I'm really looking forward to supporting our learners in 2026.
JOURNEY OTENE - Kaiāwhina
Kia Ora
Ko Journey taku ingoa.
He uri tenei nō Tūhoe, Ngāti Kahungunu hoki.
My name is Journey I am a descendant of Tūhoe and Ngāti Kahungunu. I enjoy playing sports, doing things outdoors and spending time with family and friends. I really love working with this age group they have inspired me to return to kura and complete my post-graduate teaching diploma.
FINN DIPHOORN - Kaiāwhina
Kia ora I am Finn and I am in my second year as a kaiāwhina at TIS. I am studying fulltime as well at Canterbury University completing a Bachelor of Sport through distance learning. It goes without saying that I love sport and play hockey, rugby and cricket and you can also find me umpiring at the hockey turf. I am deaf and a cochlear implant wearer so I have a real connection with our deaf ākonga and enjoy working alongside them - showing them that they can achieve anything they put their mind to. Having a disability is NOT a barrier to being successful in whatever you choose to do.
SERENA HUBBARD - Kaiāwhina
HOANI TAURIMA - Caretaker
STEVE DEMETRIUS - School Chaplain
I have served as the Volunteer School Chaplain at TIS since 2009. Lifewalk Charitable Trust defines the role of a Chaplain as a “trusted friend” who is there to encourage and support Students and Staff. It is a unique role in that I come not as a teacher, administrator, or parent, but as just “Steve.” Students face many pressures and issues in their lives and I count it a privilege to work alongside the Staff at TIS. Lifewalk directs Chaplains to not initiate conversations with Students or Staff about spiritual matters. I do not and will not approach students or staff to start a spiritual discussion or put pressure on them to head in any spiritual direction. The role of a Chaplain is not to promote any particular Church or denomination, but to facilitate the flow of information about local youth groups. I also serve as Chaplain at Taradale High School, EIT and teach the Champions programme at two Primary schools. I am originally from California and have lived in New Zealand for about 16 years. My wife is originally from Taradale and we have three children. I have previously taught school and coached many sports. I love film, travel, reading, sports (tennis, golf, mountain biking, basketball, softball and hockey on the turf with the students!). I spend Interval and Lunch hours at school, attend assemblies and special events, spend time in the Staff room, lead the Chess Club, and help lead a weekly afterschool Bible Club (students get permission from their Parents/Caregivers to attend). Taradale Intermediate is a wonderful school and it is a real joy to serve here.
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