Petita has a post Grad in Primary Teaching and a Diploma in Graphic Design. She has been teaching since 2003, including as an Art Specialist Teacher at Otahuhu Intermediate 2012-2015. 

Fostered to the Ngāti Hauā Iwi, through the connection her parents had with them in the 1940s-80s, she demonstrates a deep sensitivity and appreciation of the value and importance of embracing Te Reo Māori and Tikanga. 

While these days Petita dedicates most of her time and energy to assisting her sister, NZ Artist, Susan Te Kahurangi King, she is delighted to join the team at Freemans Bay School in the capacity as both a part time and relief teacher, saying, “this keeps me balanced. It’s all about the children’s learning, our future generation”.