Our Team
The Heart of Albany team is governed by our core values both culturally and practically in our day-to-day operations. Complete commitment to these values provides the platform of our high-quality childcare service.
These values are inclusive of all our children, parents, staff and management.
Meet Leena Puri - Centre Manager
Kia ora and welcome to Heart of Albany ELC!
I’m Leena Puri, Centre Manager, and I am passionate about creating a warm, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment where every child feels a true sense of belonging and is empowered to thrive.
With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education across India, Singapore, and New Zealand, my teaching philosophy is grounded in Te Whāriki, recognising every child as a capable, competent, and confident learner.
I value strong partnerships with parents and whānau and believe that every child’s language, culture, identity, and unique strengths should be celebrated and respected.
I believe in empowering children to develop strong oral language, mathematical thinking, scientific inquiry, and environmental awareness through meaningful, play-based learning experiences.
My goal is to nurture resilient, confident learners who embrace challenges, become thoughtful problem-solvers, take considered risks, and develop the curiosity, confidence, and enthusiasm for lifelong learning.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, learning, and being part of my local community. I believe that strong relationships and kindness are the foundation of everything we do.
Together with our passionate and dedicated team, we are committed to providing high-quality, child-centred education where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. We look forward to welcoming your family into our Heart of Albany ELC whānau and partnering with you to support your child’s unique learning journey.
“Ko te ahurei o te tamaiti arāhia ā tātou mahi.”
“Let the uniqueness of the child guide our work.”
Michelle Musnit - Assistant Manager
Kia ora, ko Michelle tōku ingoa, I am Kaiako Michelle, a passionate and strongly driven educator with more than a decade of experience with young learners. I completed my Certificate III & Diploma in Early Childhood and Care in Sydney, Australia. I gained my Bachelors of Elementary Education majoring in Preschool Education in the Philippines, and I finished my master’s degree in education at Australian Catholic University.
As an educator and a leader, my goals are to build meaningful, reciprocal and supportive relationships with the tamariki, fellow kaiako and whanau. I aim to promote and encourage learning in all areas of children’s development and facilitate learning opportunities for growth and increase their progress in achieving their milestones. My philosophy in teaching is that each child has unique and special abilities. They are active and powerful participants of their own world. They are capable and competent young learners that is nurtured and educated to be the future citizens of our world.
Mariette Oberholzer - Centre Administrator
Hi, I’m Mariette, and I’m proud to be part of the Heart of Albany whānau as the Centre Administrator.
I love being part of this wonderful centre and working alongside our Centre Manager, Leena, and our dedicated team of teachers. One of my favourite parts of the day is welcoming our families and sharing smiles, chats, and cuddles with the children.
I’ve always had a passion for working with children and believe every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where they feel valued, confident and inspired to explore, grow and develop a lifelong love of learning.
It’s a privilege to be part of such a caring and supportive community and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our children and whānau as we share their learning journey together.
Paula Hawkings - Ece Consultant
With a wealth of experience operating ECE centres, Paula brings a blend of expertise in general management, operational management, centre setups, investment strategies for new owners and business turnarounds.
Paula brings professionalism and strategic insight to New Zealand early education centres.
SAFETY
Physical and emotional well being
HAPPINESS
Joy, fun and play for all
PROFESSIONALISM
striving for excellence in everyday actions and contact
HARMONY
throughout our environment
RESPECT
every person’s individuality and beliefs
We are proud of and have confidence in our dedicated and professional teachers, who enable us to provide exceptional care and learning. Our staff is selected for their commitment to children and for their ability to provide a service that reflects love, respect and understanding of children.
