Ramesh brings Matariki magic to Bear Park Early Learning Centre
North Harbour franchisee Ramesh Sharma gave Bear Park Early Learning Centre a heartwarming surprise this Matariki, treating both the staff and kids to a spread of cookies, marshmallows, pizza, and more.
As Matariki is a time of reflection and community, felt like the perfect moment to do it.
“I had been thinking about doing something for the kids for a long time,” he says.
Ramesh has been cleaning Bear Park for 14 years and has built a strong relationship with the team. Wanting to include the children in his tradition of giving, he spoke to Bear Park’s Owner and Director, Bridget Gerrard, to make sure everyone would be catered for.
“She was very happy. She said she was not expecting anyone to do something like that,” he says.
With Bridget’s input on what food to bring, Ramesh put together a selection that everyone could enjoy. It turned out to be a great opportunity to connect with the kids.
This was the first time Ramesh had interacted with the children, who usually leave before he arrives to clean. But this visit gave him a rare chance to step out from behind the scenes and connect with the little ones whose spaces he quietly cares for each day.
“They let the kids sit with me and introduced me, so the kids now know my name and everyone’s calling ‘Ramesh, Ramesh’,” he laughs.
The visit quickly turned into a joyful Q&A session, with curious kids asking Ramesh about his work.
“I was very happy because they were totally respectful and asked me questions about how I do the cleaning there. I said I had magic hands,” he laughs.
Bridget says the gesture was appreciated by everyone – young and old alike.
“He kindly contributed lovely fresh breads, pizza, sausage rolls, and sweet treats for the children. They all loved it, even the staff!” she says.
Ramesh is no stranger to acts of kindness. Whether it’s gifting wine and chocolates to his customers or organising thoughtful celebrations like this one, he’s well known for going the extra mile.
This time, he made sure the children were part of the celebration too, and his thoughtful gesture brought big smiles to the littlest faces.
