Ally Gibbs has been part of the Mulberry Grove School whānau for over 15 years and brings more than 30 years of experience in education. As tumuaki, she is a passionate and dedicated kaiako who believes in nurturing a love of learning through rich, authentic experiences that reflect our whenua, moana and community.

Ally has a strong interest in environmental science, ecology, and te taiao — all of which are reflected in the school’s connection to its unique motu environment. She is also a strong advocate for ngā toi (the arts), including kanikani (dance), puoro (music), and toi ataata (visual arts), and sees these as essential for fostering creativity, confidence, and self-expression in our tamariki.

A lifelong learner and keen pānui pukapuka (reader), Ally brings energy, warmth, and vision to her leadership. Her goal is to create a learning environment where every child feels valued, inspired, and connected — to their ako, to each other, and to the world around them.

Kia ora, 

My family and I are new to Aotea Island with this being our first year here. About 10 years ago I visited Great Barrier for a holiday and saw this gorgeous little school on the beach and thought to myself “Oh how I would love to teach there one day”, needless to say dreams do come true!  We have been making the most of our beautiful surroundings with many visits to the beach, enjoying the fishing and exploring the bush walks all around us.  I am a mum of two beautiful children, who have made me even

more passionate about the future of our education system.  A 7 year old (who attends MGS too) and a nearly 3 year old, who keeps me on my toes.  In my downtime I love to read, garden, bake, walk, travel and of course dance!!! 

I am a passionate teacher with 16 years teaching experience across all primary school year levels. I believe in teaching and celebrating the success of the whole child. I believe relationships are the absolute key to education, both with the learner and their whānau but also within the school and community as well. I believe children need to play and be connected to nature. I believe school should be fun for our students and teachers alike.

I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity to work alongside the students and teachers at Mulberry Grove school and to live on this beautiful island.

I’ve been lucky to call Great Barrier Island home for the past nine years. I love being surrounded by the sea, the beautiful native bush, and the sound of birdsong while working in my garden. I’ve been teaching for 18 years, and it’s something I truly love.   I believe that every child is unique, capable, and full of potential. Helping tamariki grow, learn, and discover their strengths brings me so much joy.

Before teaching, I ran my own photography business and also spent time working in early childhood education. Those experiences taught me the value of creativity, patience, and seeing the world through a child’s eyes—something I carry with me every day in the classroom.

Being part of this school and community is really special to me, and I feel grateful every day to be doing what I love, in a place I love.