Coast Kindy, formally Whangaparaoa Baptist Community Kindergarten, was established in 1987, and has provided a warm, inviting centre to many families over the years. We are a non profit Christian Early Childhood centre that operates as a service to our community. We are strongly family focussed, welcoming our families to be involved in many of the events held throughout the year.

Therese Biggelaar: Supervisor

I am married to John-Paul and have three adult children, Elise, Stefan and Lauren. I also have 5 grandchildren, who I love to spend time with.

I have been working at this centre for over 20 years. I love coming to kindy, building warm, trusting relationships with the children and their families.

I love to keep active and attend classes at the gym or walk and cycle. I belong to the local Catholic community and also do the accounting work for my husband’s business.

Raewyn Meikle: Assistant Supervisor

I have been married to Alan (the kindy handyman) and have lived on the Coast for most of my life.  I enjoy the company of my lovely children, their spouses and my 7 grandchildren.  I love to read, am home-schooling  my youngest kids, garden and spend time with the special people in my life. I love God and  I love working at Kindy … thanks for the privilege of spending time with your precious children.

Linda Kay: Teacher

Hi, I’m Linda. You’ll see me at Kindy four days a week. I have two precious  girls and enjoy reading, going to the movies, Sudoku and escaping for relaxing weekends at Mangawhai. Thank you for entrusting your gorgeous children with us. My interest is in the care and nurture of the two year olds, ensuring their needs are met – especially cuddles.  I am part of the Whangaparaoa Baptist Church and I am involved in leading the 3-5 year old age group on Sunday mornings during the 10.30 am service.

Sophie Field: Teacher

Hello everyone, I’m Sophie. I have lived on the coast all of my life and went to school locally.   I have always loved children and I really enjoy working at Coast Kindy. I am committed to helping make your child’s day a happy, engaging and enjoyable experience.

Debbie Blackman: Teacher

Debbie is a key member of our teaching team.  She is a qualified and registered teacher with 18 years experience.  She has a lovely heart towards children and we love having her as part of our team. Debbie and Rob are parents to Jeremy, Charlotte and Lucy.

Sue Henton: Family Worker

Hi, my name is Suzanne but I am often called Sue or Suz, I am married to Warren and we have three lovely children, Jessica (married to Shaun), Matthew and Kelly. I love reading, gardening and more recently I have discovered I am totally in my happy place tramping – I have now ticked off 3 of the NZ Great Walks and am planning #4.    I love God and am passionate about our kindy and the wonderful families who are part of us.

Lauren Bibby-Johnson: Finance Manager 

Lauren is our Finance Manager for our Kindy.  She is the mum of Holly and Lily and is married to Steve.  We appreciate her expertise and she can be contacted through the office, particularly through email.