Meet the Board
Our Board is deeply committed to the wellbeing and success of our kindergarten communities – our tamariki, their whānau, and the dedicated staff who support them every day.
Everything we do is guided by what’s best for our kindergartens. Each decision, conversation, and future initiative is shaped by our belief in nurturing the joy of teaching and the love of learning.
It’s a privilege to walk alongside our tamariki as they begin their learning journey, and we are continually inspired by the vibrant communities that surround them.
Our Role
The Napier Kindergarten Association Board provides governance and strategic leadership for the Association. Key responsibilities include:
- Setting and reviewing the Association’s Strategic Plan
- Employing and supporting the General Manager
- Monitoring strategic progress and outcomes
- Managing organisational risk
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance
- Establishing policies that guide our operations
Our Structure
The Board is made up of:
- President
- Vice President
- Staff elected Board member
- Board members
The General Manager reports to the President of the Board.
Our Commitment
The Board meets regularly throughout the year to fulfil its governance responsibilities. Members also attend the Association AGM, community events and contribute to kindergarten national projects. We share updates and insights with our kindergarten communities through regular updates that the General Manager sends weekly
Alexa Forrest-Pain
BOARD CHAIR
Alexa grew up in Wairoa, where she spent her preschool years attending kindergarten. Now a parent of two young children, she values the opportunity for them to experience kindergarten as well. With a background in public health, Alexa is passionate about supporting the wellbeing and development of tamariki, whānau, and communities
Rachel Leutele
BOARD MEMBER
Rachel is a parent whose children attend Onekawa Kindergarten, Rachel is an enrolled Solicitor and Barrister and also an online content creator. Rachel provides a parent view as well as a well-rounded perspective on other important aspects pertaining to the Board.
Ed White
BOARD MEMBER
Ed moved to New Zealand in 2022 and two of his children loved their time at Taradale East Kindergarten. Ed has been on the board since 2024 and brings a commercial and strategic perspective to the Board.
Lillian Church
BOARD MEMBER
Lill is the Head Teacher at Onekawa Kindergarten and is the staff-elected Board member. Lill has been in the early childhood education sector for 30 years in various settings and roles. Her experience provides a voice for Kaiako, staff and tamariki at a governance level.
Chelsea Spencer
BOARD MEMBER
A Napier local and parent of two young children, including one currently attending Napier Kindergartens, Chelsea brings both a current parent perspective and strong financial expertise to the role. As a Chartered Accountant and Accounting Manager, she has extensive experience in financial management, compliance, reporting, and governance, and is passionate about supporting the future success of Napier Kindergartens.
Carmen Dalli
BOARD MEMBER
Carmen was co-opted as a Board member in 2025. She brings over 30 years of early childhood research, teacher education, and policy expertise to the role together with strong leadership experience in the tertiary education sector. Carmen joined our Board in 2025 and has been part of creating our new strategy from 2026 and beyond
Constitution
Napier Kindergarten Association is an Incorporated Society and registered under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, we are legally required to have a constitution that governs our organisation, a copy is available here.
Strategic Plan
You can click here to find a copy of our organisational Strategic Plan 2026-2029
NKA Membership
Becoming a member of the Napier Kindergarten Association is a simple and meaningful way to stay connected with your child’s early learning journey. Membership is free and open to all whānau and community members who support our kindergartens.
As an NKA member, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Stay informed about key developments across our kindergartens
- Take part in our Annual General Meeting
- Vote on important decisions
- Stand for the Board of Governance, if you’re interested in contributing at a leadership level
Membership ensures your voice is part of shaping the future of early childhood education in our region.
Ready to Join?
Becoming a member is easy. Simply complete our quick online Membership Form and you’re all set. You’ll also receive an Information Sheet outlining what it means to be part of NKA. Apply now and support your child, your kindergarten, and your community.