Our People
Kia ora! My name is Devika Manamperi, with 19 years of experience as a qualified and fully registered early childhood teacher, I feel truly passionate about nurturing the growth, learning and well-being of infants, toddlers and preschool children.
I believe every child is a unique and capable learner who deserves to feel safe, valued and empowered. As a Team Leader, I am passionate about creating engaging, inclusive and play-based learning environments that nurture curiosity, creativity, independence and holistic development. Guided by Te Whāriki, I value strong relationships with tamariki, whānau and kaiako, ensuring every child’s identity, language and culture are respected and celebrated. My goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning and support every child to reach their full potential. He taonga te tamaiti — Every child is a treasure!
Anchal Khopkar
Qualified Early Childhood Teacher
Kia ora, I’m Anchal. I’m passionate about building positive, trusting relationships with tamariki and creating a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child feels a strong sense of belonging. I believe children learn best through play, exploration and meaningful interactions that encourage their curiosity, independence and confidence.
I enjoy supporting each child’s individual learning journey, celebrating their achievements and working in partnership with whānau to nurture their holistic development and love of learning.
Paras Kumar
Qualified Early Childhood Teacher
Kia ora, my name is Paras Kumar, and I’m passionate about helping tamariki learn, grow and discover the world around them. I believe every child has their own strengths and interests, and my role as a Qualified Early Childhood Teacher is to encourage their curiosity, problem-solving skills and independence through meaningful, play-based experiences. I enjoy creating opportunities for children to try new things, learn from their experiences and develop confidence in their own abilities, while supporting them to become enthusiastic, lifelong learners.
Sweanie Flores
Teaching Support Staff
Hello! I'm Sweanie, Your New Center Reliever.
Kia ora e te whânau! I'm excited to be part of your center's community as a teacher reliever. I'm originally from the Philippines and began my career as a nurse. However, my true passion for tamariki led me to change paths. In 2021, I completed my New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care through Training For You.
Since then, I've been dedicated to creating a nurturing and respectful learning environment where tamariki can thrive. I look forward to supporting your children's learning and working alongside the kaiako to contribute positively to our center's family.
Ngă mihi nui,
Sweanie Larie Flores
Grace Wang
Support Teacher
Hi, I am Grace. Tena koutou katoa! I am a support teacher here at City Preschool.
I hold Diploma In Culinary Arts, but it’s my Certificate In Education ECE from AUT that inspired me to embark on my teaching journey.
I love surrounding myself with young children. Having two boys of my own has certainly made it more exciting and relatable.
Welcome to City Preschool and our wonderful community! I look forward to meeting you and your family!