Mr Arran Connor

Tēnā koutou katoa. Ko Arran Connor tōku ingoa. I am the Deputy Principal of Ponsonby Primary School.

I grew up in Tāmaki Makaurau, and I have been working at Ponsonby Primary School for 8 years. I began my teaching career here as a beginning teacher and taught across Year 5 and 6, before stepping into this role in 2024.

My passion in life is ensuring that our tamariki absolutely love coming to school to learn. I find it so rewarding to help provide amazing educational opportunities for our ākonga in an environment that is inclusive, supportive, and fun!

My favourite thing about Ponsonby Primary School is the warm and welcoming family atmosphere. All the teachers and staff are one big whānau that supports one another, and that feeling of aroha flows through to the students and the families of this wonderful community.

Outside of work, I ride the emotional rollercoaster that is being a huge Warriors fan. I love watching and playing sports of all varieties, and of course proudly represent the Ponsonby Primary School staff netball team! I’m also an avid reader and film watcher, and love spending time outdoors and getting in the water.

Ms Julia Nissen

Kia ora! My name is Julia Nissen, and I am the Special Educational Needs Coordinator here at Ponsonby Primary School as well as the Learning Support Coordinator.

I am originally from Thames, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for 8 years.

I love teaching because I get to see how excited students are when they learn something new and get to share it with their friends and family.

The thing I love most about Ponsonby Primary School is that it is an inclusive and close-knit community right in the heart of the city.

Outside of work, I enjoy relaxing with my family in Mangawhai. I also have 3 kids, 4 chickens, 2 cats and 8 fish to keep me busy!!

Mrs Anja Oliver

Kia ora! My name is Anja Oliver, and I am the Puriri Syndicate Leader and ICT Leader,  as well as a Year 3 teacher.

I am Auckland born and bred, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for 18 years!

I love seeing children make connections and having those WOW moments. Kids are just like popcorn. You put a bunch of kernels in a pot. They are all getting the same heat, and they are all getting the same space but each one pops when it’s ready!

The thing I love most about Ponsonby Primary School is the people – the children, staff and parents are all so supportive of each other.

Outside of work, I live with my lovely husband and little poochon called Daphne.  She comes into school at times and the kids love reading to her and doing “Daphne Patrol”. I enjoy taking Daphne for walks in Cornwall Park, travelling (especially on cruise ships), and being creative through different crafts.

Mrs SarahVollmer

Kia ora! My name is Sarah Vollmer, and I am a Year 5 teacher, as well as the Year 5 Local Curriculum Leader.

I grew up and went to school in Auckland, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for four years.

I love inspiring children to follow their passions and be curious about the world around them. In my classroom, we celebrate differences and welcome all students and their family.

I love that Ponsonby Primary School has a close knit community where families are present within the school and teachers have an open door policy. 

Outside of work, I love to travel around New Zealand and find hidden gems to explore, whether it be a gorgeous beach or new food spot.

Mrs Chelsea Massoud

I’m excited to begin my 14th year in education and first year teaching at PPS! I have spent the last 10 years teaching and serving as a literacy consultant for schools all over New York City before moving to New Zealand with my husband Jackson. It is my passion to help senior primary students build independence and a lifelong love of learning as they make the transition to intermediate school! I am thrilled to join the PPS team!

Mr Jay Keshaw

Kia ora! My name is Jay Keshaw, and I am a Year 6 teacher and leader of the Year 6 Wellbeing leadership group.

I was born in Auckland and raised in Auckland but have lived overseas for a large part of my life, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for a total of 4 years.

I love seeing the joy and confidence on children’s faces when they accomplish something at school, whether it’s mastering a new skill, solving a challenging problem, or achieving a personal goal. I believe in creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued, encouraged, and inspired to reach their full potential by fostering curiosity, resilience, and developing a growth mindset.

What I love the most about Ponsonby Primary school is that from the time that you walk through the gates you feel the warmth and pride within the school. As a teacher it is so nice to be teaching at a school that has such support from our parents whether it be in the form of school trips, fundraisers or celebrations. 

Outside of work, I am the father of three beautiful children. I love to spend time with my family exploring New Zealand’s beautiful beaches. I enjoy cooking, especially when it involves the BBQ. I have always enjoyed traveling and learning about different cultures. I enjoy landscape photography when I have a chance to get out by myself.

Mrs Olivia Benge

Kia ora! My name is Olivia Benge, and I am the Maths Leader here at Ponsonby Primary School as well as a Year 3 teacher.

I am from Grey Lynn, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for 16 years. 

I teach because I want to create a classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to learn, explore, and dream big. Teaching is a journey of learning and growth for both my students and myself, where their questions, ideas, and laughter make every day meaningful.

I love Ponsonby Primary School – the wonderful community, all the amazing teachers who are my friends, the opportunities given to both our students and to us as teachers. 

Outside of work, I have two lovely sons and I enjoy hanging out with my boys, going to the beach, reading good books, going out to dinner and watching my kids play sport.

Ms Hannah Clark

Kia ora! This is my first year at Ponsonby Primary, and I’m very excited to be joining such a vibrant and welcoming school community. I’m teaching in Year 3 this year and am loving getting to know the students, their personalities, and the energy they bring to the classroom each day.

I was born in London and grew up in Auckland, and what drew me to Ponsonby Primary was the strong sense of community that surrounds the school. The connections between students, whānau, and staff are clear, and it’s something I truly value!

Outside of the classroom, I love spending time outdoors. In my free time, you’ll often find me going for walks or heading out on nature hikes, enjoying fresh air and exploring new places whenever I can.

Ms Anne Cowsill

Tēnā koutou. Ko Anne Cowsil toku ingoa. I am a Year 4 teacher, as well as the Year 4 Curriculum Leader and Visual Arts Leader.

I am from Grey Lynn, and I have taught at Ponsonby Primary School for a total of 33 years! First from 1988-2003, then again from 2007-now.

The thing I love most about teaching is seeing children’s excitement when they learn new things. I especially love teaching through visual art, and I also love it when the learning is about our amazing country -Aotearoa. 

Children need to be given the opportunity to develop at their own pace and to be exposed to different ways of learning.  They need to become critical thinkers in this changing world.  They also need to be confident about who they are, and be able to think about others when they are learning. 

Ponsonby Primary School is a special place because the wonderful children of Ponsonby are at the centre of everything we do. We are like a whānau; everyone – staff and community – working together for the children.

Outside of work, I enjoy walking with my friends, learning te reo Māori, and reading and watching anything to do with Aotearoa’s history.

Ms Claire O’Neill

Kia ora! My name is Claire O’Neill, and I am a beginning Year 4 teacher. 

I’m originally from Vancouver Island, Canada and moved to New Zealand in 2023, where I studied at the University of Auckland. 

I love teaching as I get to help students follow their passions and be curious about the world around them. Through my teaching, students are given a safe space where mistakes are welcomed as part of the learning journey, and children feel confident to grow and take risks.

The thing I love most about Ponsonby Primary School is the strong community of teachers who create a positive, supportive environment where students can grow as both learners and individuals. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues and engaging with families to support our students’ success and well-being.

Outside of work, I love exploring New Zealand’s natural beauty, going on hikes, swimming in the ocean, and discovering the diverse flora and fauna. I enjoy trying out new sports and have a strong passion for skiing, surfing and soccer. I have enjoyed immersing myself in the local community and the beautiful culture of Aotearoa New Zealand!

Ms Logan Petersen

Kia ora! My name is Logan Petersen, and I am a Year 1 and New Entrants teacher at Ponsonby Primary School.

I grew up on the beautiful Tutukaka Coast in Northland and recently relocated to Auckland. I am currently in my second year of teaching, having spent both years working in the junior school.

I am passionate about helping young learners build confidence, develop a love of learning, and feel excited about coming to school each day. I strive to create a classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to be themselves.

I love being part of the Ponsonby Primary School community. There is a real sense of connection throughout the school, and I enjoy seeing students, whānau, and staff come together to celebrate learning, culture, and the many achievements of our tamariki.

Before becoming a teacher, I spent several years travelling throughout Europe and working as a travel agent, experiences that fostered my love of exploring new places and learning about different cultures. Outside of school, I enjoy travelling, spending time with my dog, and getting out for long walks together.

Mrs Sarah Williamson

Kia ora! My name is Sarah Williamson  I am so excited to be opening Room 22!  I am looking forward to a fun-filled year of new experiences, learning, and memorable moments with your children. I can’t wait to get to know you and your whānau as we begin this exciting journey together!

I was born and raised in beautiful New Zealand. My husband, our one-year-old son Freddie, and I returned home in January after spending four wonderful years living in London. We have recently moved to Point Chev and are looking forward to exploring our new area. 

I have been teaching across the junior school for the past nine years and have a passion for literacy and supporting children with diverse learning needs. I am excited to be part of your child’s first year of school and look forward to helping them grow in confidence, develop a love of learning, and reach their full potential.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll usually find my family and me at the beach, riding our bikes, out for a run, or baking yummy treats!

Mrs Anna Wylie

Hi there, my name is Anna Wylie and I am a Year 1 teacher.

I was born in Lower Hutt and grew up in Lower Hutt, Christchurch and Auckland. I studied at Massey University in Palmerston North so have lived in many places in NZ!

I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for a number of years. I taught here full time before leaving to have my family. I came back to Ponsonby Primary School as a CRT teacher before coming back into the classroom full time 5 years ago. I have had teaching experience ranging from Yr 0 to Yr 7, with Yr 0/1 being my favourite.

I love working with children. You can’t not smile when working with them. The things they say and do and the way they interpret the world is so insightful. Children amuse me, entertain me and inspire me!

At Ponsonby Primary School, I love our staff. We are all here for the same reason and we all support and encourage each other. We are colleagues but mostly we are friends.

Outside of work, I am married to Jeremy and I have three children of my own, Georgie, Tom and Kate. I also have an adorable dog, Albert. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, travelling and exercise.

Mrs Debbie Fox

Hello! My name is Debbie Fox, and I am a Year 1 teacher. I grew up in East Auckland and have lived locally for many years, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School since 2019.

I am a trained SPELD teacher and have a strong interest in literacy, especially reading, and helping children with reading difficulties.

It is such a privilege to help children at the beginning of their school journey, hopefully imparting a love of learning that they will carry with them throughout school and beyond. Young children have such an unfiltered and refreshing view on life – you can’t help but smile!

Someone once said to me that teaching at Ponsonby was like being in a country school in the city.  I think this sums up Ponsonby – our school is small enough that we know all of the children, everyone supports each other, we have fun together and we know and enjoy our community.

Outside of work, I am married to Geoff and we have two grown up children Max and Zoe.  We also have a beautiful Kelpie named Rufus. I enjoy walking with friends, yoga, cooking for friends and family, and reading.

Ms Terri Cochrane

Kia Ora! My name is Terri and I am a year 1 teacher. I am originally from the Hibiscus Coast and completed my studies in Wellington at Victoria University in 2019. I am delighted to be joining Ponsonby primary after 6 years of teaching on the North Shore. 

I am passionate about all curriculum areas, with a special interest in literacy and the performing arts. I enjoy building strong relationships with students and Whanau, fostering a love for learning. It is a privilege to be a part of your child’s journey as they begin school and find their own way. I find it so rewarding to watch as your child grows and be their support. 

Since moving to Ponsonby, I have noticed the incredible community and family feel of both the area and school. I am excited to get involved, making a home away from home. The Ponsonby staff are supportive, kind and a joy to be around. I feel very lucky!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at the beach and swimming at any chance I can get. We spend lots of time on our family boat, Island hopping and fishing. I am passionate about all animals, often dog sitting for family and friends. I love heading to local cafes and look forward to finding all the best spots around Ponsonby!

Ms Ebru Kokcu

Mrs Rhona Webb

Kia ora! My name is Rhona Webb, and I am a Year 2 teacher.

My father was Scottish and my mother is English. I am one of 6, and was born in New Plymouth. I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for 8 years.

I love children’s humour, and I love to see children strive to reach their learning goals. At Ponsonby Primary School, I love the traditions, the history and the welcoming environment for all families.

Outside of work, I live in St Marys Bay with my husband, 3 teenage children and Labrador Billie. All of my children attended Ponsonby Primary and loved it! I love walking my dog on the beach, pilates and yoga, and Sunday night dinners with the whole family.

Ms Christina Kelly

Kia ora! A big warm hello, my name is Christina Kelly and I am a Year 2 teacher.

I grew up living on the edge of Lake Tarawera in the district of Rotorua, and I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for a long time! I arrived and I stayed.

I truly love being with the children!  I teach because there is an excitement, joy, challenge and deep reward in the journey. Learning from my students is a daily gift of this profession. Relationship building and fostering positive, trusting connections with my students is the most important part of successful learning. 

At Ponsonby Primary are a family. It has a country school feeling within a city. Everyone is valued and supported. We share a strong commitment and take pride in what we achieve together. 

Outside of work, I love being in nature, hiking or running and a good coffee.  I love time at home with my family. I treasure our native birds and support Bird Care Aotearoa.

Mr Will Clague

Kia ora! My name is Will Clague, and I am a classroom release teacher.

I was born in England then moved to New Zealand when I was 9 years old. I lived in Auckland for 4 years before moving to live in Tauranga for 15 years! I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School for just over a year.

I really enjoy connecting with kids and building the best learning environment I can to support and guide them! I believe school is a great chance for kids to try everything, explore, get curious, and have fun!

I thoroughly enjoy working with the staff at Ponsonby Primary School, they have been so welcoming since arriving in Auckland. I am lucky to be a part of the community here!

Outside of work, I love watching and playing sports, football, volleyball, golf you name it! 

I enjoy exercising by going to the gym and walking. Travelling is also a big passion of mine, exploring different countries, culture and food.

Family time is an important value of mine, so spending time with the family, my 2 brothers and sister,  and having a laugh is one of my favourite things to do.

Mrs Lynda Hill

Kia ora! My name is Lynda Hill, and I am a classroom release teacher.

I was born in Auckland and grew up in Sandringham, and later moved into Ponsonby as a young teacher, where I remained with my family until we moved in 2002 to South Auckland. 

In 1996 our family business started the Inner City Schools Art Programme to support and encourage Visual Art in schools.  

My teaching journey with Ponsonby Primary began as a long term reliever many years ago, continued as a reliever and part time release teacher when my children attended as pupils and now sees me releasing teachers for varying reasons during the school week.

The thing I love most about teaching is the children and their learning – the “pearls of wisdom”, the light bulb moments when something falls into place, the hard work that is undertaken and the reward that follows.

I love Ponsonby Primary School because of the sharing and support that is threaded through the staff, our school Values, the programmes and the children – everyone has a place and is encouraged to achieve. There are many opportunities open to all children to find and do their best. 

Outside of work, I enjoy riding and keeping my horses fit takes up a great deal of time. To support my fitness for this, I train at the gym three times a week and work on our 4 hectare property in South Auckland managing a small amount of stock and keeping our gardens under control!

Mrs Shewanthi Nanayakkara

Kia ora! My name is Shewanthi Nanayakkara, and I am a classroom release teacher.

I’m from Gisborne and I’m a Gizzy die hard, but I have been teaching at Ponsonby Primary School on and off for 23 years!

The thing I love most about teaching is the people – working alongside wonderful colleagues,  beautiful children and amazing parents! What more could you want?

My favourite thing about Ponsonby Primary School is the gorgeous children that we are so privileged to teach each day and the wonderful staff that work collaboratively. I can’t imagine a more supportive environment and I love the way we all work together in partnership with parents to support every one of our students.

Outside of work, I live with my husband, my two children and our dog Teddy! I love to travel, study, eat doughnuts with my husband and spend time with my family.

Mrs Vanessa Collier

Kia Ora! I’m Vanessa Collier and I’m a curriculum release teacher. I was born in Auckland and went to Auckland University. I’ve been fortunate to have lived in China for 5 years and Taiwan for 4 years. 

Ms Nancy Elzenaar

Dame Denise L’Estrange-Corbet

Ms Kessia Stevenson

Ms Lisa Searle

Mrs Louise Wharton

Mrs Holly Pailegutu

Kia ora! My name is Holly Pailegutu, and I am the accounts manager at Ponsonby Primary School. I am from Wales in the U.K and grew up in a small coastal town called Penarth. I came to NZ in 2009 and can’t imagine living anywhere else. I live with my daughter and our gorgeous cat Earl.

Despite starting recently, I can already tell that PPS is such a wonderful place to be, it is feels like a big extended family. I love coming to work everyday and getting to see all the children having such a great time. 

Outside of work, I love spending time with my daughter, getting outdoors (especially to the beach), crafting and travelling

Mr Roman Thomas

Gecko