About Kaleidocare
Kaleidocare was founded in 2015 in Pukekohe, Franklin, with a simple goal - to create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where individuals can thrive. What began as a local service has grown alongside our community, and in 2025 we proudly expanded to Auckland's North Shore.
Guided by purpose
Our team of qualified health professionals brings a deep understanding of complex disabilities and the realities faced by families. Through personalised, thoughtful programmes, we support independence, skill development, and genuine choice, while nurturing a strong sense of belonging and community.
Meet the team
Rebecca Knowles
Managing Director
I hold a teaching degree and have spent many years working in special education - a field I was fortunate to grow up in, thanks to my mum Karen, who is also deeply involved in this work.
Together, she and I started Kaleidocare, building a service grounded in family values, genuine care, and a shared passion for supporting young people with diverse needs.
We now have the wonderful support of my husband, making this truly a family-run business that loves what we do.
I’m also a very proud mum to a beautiful daughter, who is always at the centre and willing to play with everyone.
In my spare time, you’ll usually find me pottering around at home or spending time with friends and family the things that keep me grounded and happy.
Ben Knowles
Health & Safety Services Manager
I’m the jack of all trades and master of none here at Kaleidocare. My wife (Rebecca) and I have a daughter, Aubree, who you’ll often see around the centre most afternoons.
We live on 10 acres in Onewhero, and in my spare time you’ll usually find me pottering around the property, tinkering in the workshop, or working on my racing lawnmower, which I compete with in Counties.
Kristen Hughes
Executive Administration Manager
My name is Kristen, and I’m behind the voice you hear when you phone Kaleidocare, and when an invoice hits your inbox, that’s me too.
I’m married and have two adult children (three if you include my husband). I’ve been a part of the disability sector for 21 years, and I’m still learning new things every day.
Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends, and most weekends I can be found in the kitchen baking sweet morsels for lunchboxes.
Colleen Smyth-Welsh
Team Leader
I am the team leader at Pukekohe. I am married and have 2 children and 5 grandchildren. I have 20 plus years of experience in the disability sector. In my free time you will find me pottering around home.
Ruth Collins
Team Leader
My Name is Ruth. I have been with Kaleidocare since 2015. I have 3 grown up children and one Grandson. I live on a rural very quiet section, and it is very peaceful. I love to sing and laugh; I love to smile and see smiles. I can be quite the joker and love to make people laugh. One of my favourite sayings is "I am living the dream".
Liz Cornelesen
Team Leader
Hi my name is Liz and I am the Centre team leader at the NorthShore branch. I have a daughter and an amazing husband. I just love working in this industry and am passionate and always aim to do what is best for our clients. I love going to the beach, outdoor activities and spending time with my family.
Joseph Alderich-Williams
Team Leader
I’m a Team Leader in the special needs sector and have been working in this field since 2017. I am genuinely love what I do and am passionate about supporting the people I work with.
I care deeply about helping individuals build life skills, grow in confidence and experience the same opportunities everyone deserves while growing up.
My goal is always to create a positive supportive environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. In my spare time I enjoy playing rugby and fitness.
Mellissa Prestidge
Personal Care Assistant
Hi my name is Melissa, but everybody know me as Mel. I have worked with special needs for 20 years and love that I'm always learning new things with every new client I meet. I have 3 grown up sons, a husband and 3 grandchildren.
Jessica Hoani
Personal Care Assistant
Kia Ora, Ni sa Bula Vinaka. I’m a Jess of all trades. I love to sew, but am more of a collector of fabric I won’t use and sewing patterns - I'll never actually sew. More importantly I’m a Mum. I’ve weathered more storms than most, spending years fighting for seats at tables that weren’t built for my kids.
Now, they’re out there winning as adults, so I’m out here ready to awhi others claim their own seats or build new tables entirely.
McKenzie Polwart
Personal Care Assistant
Hi I’m Mckenzie, I have both personal and hands-on experience supporting those in the disability community. My experiences have shaped my genuine passion for uplifting, encouraging, and empowering the people around me. Outside of work, I enjoy socialising with friends and all things beauty.
Tobias Cox
Personal Care Assistant
Hi I am Tobias. I have a degree in Exercise Science and Nutrition. I write music and play guitar and I’m interested in fantasy, world building, medieval history, art and video games. Me and my partner have an orange cat called Maple.
Benjamin Webb
Personal Care Assistant
Hi I'm Benji. I am new to this field. I am neurodiverse. I am also in NZ Cadets and in my free time I like action figures and comic books. I don't mind talking, so come and say hi.
Tamica Harrison
Personal Care Assistant
G’Day I’m Tamica. I've recently come from Australia to live here in New Zealand my with partner. In Australia I worked in a aged care facility in the demientia ward which I loved doing.
I’m a very outgoing person, I also love helping other when needed. I can’t wait to meet you all, so pleasedI can’t wait to meet you all, so please when you wee me don’t be afraid to have a chat with me.
Braedyn Northcott
Personal Care Assistant
Hi my name is Braedyn, I graduated Pukekohe High School last year and am taking a gap year from university.
I have done heaps of sports growing up but my main sport is basketball. I have been playing basketball for over 10 years locally for Franklin Basketball, along with that I volunteer within the basketball community by coaching beginners from U10 to U18 and referee local league games.
Being a newer member of Kaleidocare, this has been a positive adjustment for me learning the role within a workforce being able to make new connections with staff and clients. Can't wait to make a difference in the world.
Nikita Olsen
Personal Care Assistant
I originally come from Whangarei and moved down to Auckland with my dog Blue! I have been in the disability industry since 2022 in areas such as equipment, residential care and clinical support.
I enjoy working in the industry because you get to make strong connections and memories with the people that stay with you forever! In my spare time I enjoy music and art.
Erana Brooks
Personal Care Assistant
Kia ora, My name is Erana. I'm a vibrant and nurturing person who is proud to be married to my wonderful husband Jeff, and a happy mother of two incredible adult sons, Jarrod and Tyler.
Growing up in a large and loving whānau has been a treasure, teaching me valuable life skills, cultural values, respect, and love.
I enjoy music, singing, dancing, creative arts, classic cars, and exploring the wonders of our beautiful country and beyond through thrilling traveling adventures.
With nearly 12 years of experience in the Early Childhood sector, I transitioned to the Health and Well-being pathway, completing Level 4, inspired by my sons' neurodiverse needs. Now, I'm driven to empower others like them, guiding them to reach their full potential, thrive, and have fun along the way!
