Our educator – Marieke Latimer           

Kia ora! I’m Marieke, and I bring eight years of primary teaching experience to my role as an educator with Life Education Trust. During my years of teaching, I developed a passion for child development, wellbeing, and helping Tamariki make sense of themselves and the world around them.

From the moment I stepped into a Life Education mobile classroom, I knew I’d found something special. I love being able to combine my passion for teaching with my interest in how our minds and bodies work and internal and external factors that can influence children throughout their lives. I believe in helping Tamariki build the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices for their futures.

I love working with Tamariki from all walks of life, creating a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and free to be themselves. There’s nothing better than those lightbulb moments when a child makes a connection, asks a brilliant question, or discovers something new about themselves. Of course, having Harold along for the ride makes it more memorable!

I believe every child is unique and magnificent, and I’m passionate about helping tamariki recognise their own strengths, respect themselves and others, and develop the resilience to navigate their life journey. Through the Healthy Harold programme, we tackle some big topics, but we do it in a way that’s fun, interactive, and meaningful for each age group.

As an educator in the Waikato East region, I feel privileged to work alongside schools and communities to support the health and wellbeing of our Tamariki. One of the best parts of my job is knowing that the conversations we have, and the things children learn in the mobile classroom can stay with them long after Harold has packed up and moved on to the next school.

Nicole Oliver - Chair

Jane Thomas - Deputy Chair

Ingrid Norman - Secretary

Keith Trembath, MNZM, Life Member Life Education

Keith joined the Trust in 2007 and was made a Life Member in 2019. He has lived all his life in the Hauraki area and been actively involved in his community for many years, including as a Councillor, Federated Farmers representative and Deacon. In 2025, Keith was was awarded the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his extensive contributions to public service, agriculture, and education nationally.