The Family Physio Team
Welcome to Family Physio, where your well-being takes centre stage. Our philosophy revolves around a holistic approach to health, considering every facet of your life to deliver comprehensive care. We delve beyond just physical condition, examining exercise routines, sleep habits, dietary choices, hormonal balance, and the pressures of personal and professional life.
As a combined team, we prioritise open communication and collaboration to develop tailored solutions for our clients, utilising all of our skillsets. With a collective experience of 88 years, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every session.
In your journey towards wellness, our dedicated Physiotherapists engage in open dialogues with you, exploring potential lifestyle adjustments that could enhance your overall quality of life. We are committed to empowering you with knowledge to make informed decisions, supporting your long-term health and vitality.
Our mission is simple: to ensure you and your loved ones can continue participating fully in the activities you cherish, be it sports, family outings, or everyday adventures, for years to come. Join us on this journey towards a healthier, happier you.
NICOLE
Senior Physiotherapist
Nicole serves as the Director of Family Physio and Pregnancy Physio, specialising in spinal and pelvic injuries, women’s pelvic health, and pessary fitting. Nicole also speaks Afrikaans, bringing this to the practice.
With over six years of experience as a senior physiotherapist focused on chronic and complex pain management, Nicole is dedicated to empowering her clients to reach their optimal wellness. Her background in exercise coaching and sports provides a unique perspective, allowing her to address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the healing process.
Nicole believes in treating each individual as a whole person, tailoring comprehensive care to their specific needs and aspirations. Leveraging her extensive expertise in complex injuries, she ensures that every client receives personalized attention aimed at enhancing their strength and vitality.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Nicole finds fulfillment in her role as a devoted mother to two daughters. Their inspiration drives her pursuit of excellence in both personal and professional spheres. During her leisure time, Nicole indulges in hobbies such as triathlon, skateboarding, snowboarding, and rock climbing.
With a decade of experience in strength and conditioning coaching, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice, striving to empower each client on their journey to improved health and well-being.
DARKO
Senior Physiotherapist
Darko is a versatile professional specializing in General Musculoskeletal (MSK) concerns and strength and rehabilitation coaching. Fluent in Serbian and Cortina, Darko is not only dedicated to his profession but also serves as a devoted husband to Nicole and a proud father to two beautiful daughters.
With a profound appreciation for the significance of maintaining physical fitness for the well-being of his family, Darko is driven by a passion for assisting others in achieving their fitness aspirations and leading healthier lives.
As an advocate for movement and the transformative power of exercise, Darko views himself not just as a coach but as a supportive partner on your journey towards personal strength and improvement. Drawing from his extensive knowledge and experience, he specializes in transforming weaknesses and injuries into strengths, empowering individuals to excel in their daily activities.
Darko’s caseload predominantly involves addressing injuries to the knees, feet, hips, shoulders, and related concerns. Having undergone multiple ACL and meniscus surgeries himself, and undergone rigorous rehabilitation, Darko intimately understands the challenges and triumphs associated with overcoming physical obstacles.
Outside of the clinic, Darko is actively engaged in various physical activities such as gym workouts, rock climbing, running, surfing, and participating in basketball tournaments.
With six years of experience as a physiotherapist, Darko is committed to providing personalized care and guidance to help individuals reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
KATE
Senior Physiotherapist
Kate is a seasoned professional specialising in General Musculoskeletal (MSK) concerns, with a particular focus on headaches and migraines. Fluent in Korean, Kate brings over a decade of experience to her role at Family Physio, where she serves as a pillar of expertise in various areas crucial for holistic well-being.
Equipped with a post-graduate degree and a genuine passion for the Papamoa Community, Kate is renowned for her ability to identify and address underlying issues, guiding her patients through their most challenging health obstacles.
A significant portion of Kate’s practice revolves around common musculoskeletal issues such as neck pain, shoulder discomfort, headaches, and vertigo. With a tailored approach, she works closely with clients to alleviate their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
Clients seek out Kate from across the Bay Area due to her unwavering dedication to their recovery. Witnessing the tangible relief and progress her patients experience under her care fuels Kate’s passion for physiotherapy and reinforces her commitment to delivering the highest standard of care.
In addition to her work with musculoskeletal issues, Kate also specialises in managing headaches, migraines, aiding in surgical rehabilitation, and addressing complex pain conditions. Her comprehensive approach ensures that each client receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
With 17 years of experience as a physiotherapist, Kate brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice, making her an invaluable asset to the health and well-being of her patients.
INDU
Senior Physiotherapist
Indu is a Senior Physiotherapist with a focus on General Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues and specialised training as a PINC & STEEL Cancer Rehab Therapist. Fluent in Punjabi and Hindi, Indu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her practice, enhanced by her post-graduate degree.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Indu is a proud mother and happily married, adept at balancing her personal life with her unwavering dedication to helping others regain their health and mobility.
At the core of Indu’s approach is client empowerment through education. She is deeply passionate about enhancing her clients’ understanding of their injuries, discussing comprehensive treatment and management plans, and providing personalized exercise regimens for self-management.
In addition to her general practice, Indu has completed specialised training in PINC & Steel Therapy, enabling her to offer tailored care and support to cancer patients. She is committed to helping individuals navigate the unique challenges of their cancer journey with compassion and expertise.
Through her holistic approach and steadfast commitment, Indu endeavours to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her clients, promoting healing, resilience, and overall well-being.
With 12 years of experience as a physiotherapist, Indu continues to demonstrate her dedication to excellence in patient care and rehabilitation.
RORY
Physiotherapist
Rory is a passionate Physiotherapist specialising in General Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues. His professional drive is deeply rooted in guiding his patients towards their optimal selves. Rory’s insatiable thirst for knowledge, coupled with his natural aptitude for learning, has established him as a versatile and exceptional practitioner.
Rory has honed his skills to become an outstanding all-around Physiotherapist, earning praise and admiration from his clients. His genuine enthusiasm for his profession shines through in every interaction, as he possesses a remarkable ability to instill comfort, particularly during moments of discomfort.
Dedicated to the well-being of each individual under his care, Rory approaches rehabilitation with unwavering commitment. He remains a steadfast support system for his patients, standing by them through every triumph and setback. With Rory as their ally, patients not only find relief from pain but also a trusted partner who shares in their victories and setbacks alike.
With three years of experience as a physiotherapist, Rory continues to exemplify his dedication to excellence in patient care and rehabilitation, making him a valuable asset to those seeking his expertise.
WILLEMIEN
Senior Physiotherapist
Willemien is a Senior Physiotherapist with a wealth of experience in General Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues, concussion management, and vestibular rehabilitation. Fluent in Afrikaans, Willemien is celebrated as one of Papamoa Beach’s most experienced vestibular specialists, boasting postgraduate qualifications in sport injury, vestibular physiotherapy, and orthopaedic manual therapy.
Willemien’s clinical expertise is unmatched, enabling her to approach even the most complex musculoskeletal injuries with confidence. As a strategic thinker, she thrives on problem-solving and derives immense satisfaction from witnessing her patients’ progress towards recovery. Her commitment to providing optimal treatment is unwavering, ensuring that every individual under her care receives the highest standard of care.
Outside of the clinic, Willemien finds joy in her role as a mother of two adult children, one of whom is pursuing a career in physiotherapy at AUT. Embracing the outdoor lifestyle of Papamoa, she enjoys engaging in activities such as trail running, mountain biking, and camping adventures with her family. Having recently relocated from South Africa, Willemien has found a warm and welcoming community in Papamoa, cherishing the opportunity to collaborate with its residents.
With an impressive 34 years of experience as a physiotherapist, Willemien continues to demonstrate her dedication to excellence in patient care and rehabilitation, making her a valued member of the Papamoa community.
EVELYN
Senior Physiotherapist
Evelyn is a Senior Physiotherapist with 10 years experience in General Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues, women’s and men’s pelvic health, and pessary fitting. Fluent in Portuguese, Evelyn ensures seamless communication with her diverse clientele, reflecting her commitment to providing personalised care.
Evelyn’s dedication to continuous learning and patient well-being is evident in her extensive training in pelvic health and pilates. With a decade of experience as a pelvic health specialist, she excels in addressing a wide range of conditions and treatments, always prioritizing her patients’ comfort and recovery.
Beyond her clinical practice, Evelyn’s vibrant personality and friendly demeanour make her a beloved figure among her patients. Her genuine warmth and infectious energy create a welcoming environment, particularly during challenging moments, putting her patients at ease.
In her leisure time, Evelyn immerses herself in the world of literature, finding solace and inspiration in fiction and self-awareness books. She also embraces the beauty of New Zealand through exploration and hikes with friends and her partner, nurturing her passion for nature and personal fulfilment.
With a perfect blend of professional excellence and personal passion, Evelyn epitomizes the essence of a well-rounded healthcare professional, dedicated to both her patients’ well-being and her own growth and fulfilment.
KOBUS
Business Manager
Introducing Kobus, the Director and Business Manager of Family Physio. Alongside his daughter, Nicole, they proudly own and oversee operations, driven by a shared commitment to serving their community with excellence.
With a keen eye on the horizon, Kobus is always exploring ways to enhance their services and offerings, ensuring Family Physio remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation.
As a family, Kobus and Nicole treasure the warm embrace of their cosy boutique Physio nestled by the beach. Their love for Papamoa radiates through their work, as they express gratitude for the incredible community they call home.
SANDY
Family Physio Practice Administrator
I joined the team after 30 years working for Plunket keeping children safe on the child restraint team. I am that friendly face you’ll see behind the desk and will do everything I can for you to make your appointment run smoothly. Of note, Sandy is a grandmother to 15!