Experience our newly renovated site at 187 Riccarton Rd when you book for your next Physiotherapy appointment.
We have recently refurbished our 6 treatment rooms and extended our gym facility. There is adequate parking at the rear of the building.
We have been operating out of 187 Riccarton road for over 30 years. Experience our state of the art Human Track biomechanical assessment to enhance your recovery and exceed your health goals.
Monday & Friday
8:00am – 6:00pm
Tuesday – Thursday
8:00am – 8:00pm
Saturday
closed
Sunday
Closed
Monday
4:45pm and 5.45pm
Tuesday
6:00pm
Wednesday
7:30am
Thursday
9:00am
Friday
8:30am
Qualifications: Diploma Physiotherapy, Diploma Manipulative Physiotherapy, Masters Physiotherapy, all in Otago
Biography: I have worked in Musculo-skeletal Physiotherapy for over 25 years, including 8 years in the UK. One of my roles in the UK was at Portland Physiotherapy that specialised in treating knees, that began my passion of rehabilitating knee injuries. I completed a full time post graduate year at Otago University in 1997 and completed my Masters in Physiotherapy in 2003. I joined the team at You First Physio in 2000 becoming a partner in 2001.
Clinical interests: Special interest in knees with a passion for helping people with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. Muscle balance and movement analysis in lower limb presentations is another key area of mine. This grew from work in the UK at Physioworks where there was a strong focus on analysis of movement dysfunction to help prevent recurrences.
Hobbies/interests: Hockey – both playing and coaching, Mountain Biking, Sport in general! Travel, Cooking and catching up with friends. I am mother to 3 very sporty children and love watching them play.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: Being a Physiotherapist is an incredibly rewarding career, nothing beats relieving a patient’s pain and taking their physical level to new heights. We are lucky to have a fantastic team which makes it a joy to come to work.
Book With Katherine
Qualifications: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (1996)
Currently working towards a Post Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation through the University of OtagoBiography: I have over 20 years of private practice experience with the large majority of those now being at You First Physio (Formerly Riccarton Physio) where I became a partner in 2006. I enjoy all aspects of treating patients but am very much a hands-on physiotherapist and enjoy being able to make a difference to movement and function.
Clinical interests: I enjoy treating spinal injuries and lower limb injuries with a focus on muscle balance and correction of movement patterns. Over the past 6 years I have very much enjoyed teaching and watching our new graduate physios develop their clinical skills and become excellent physiotherapists.
Hobbies/interests: I am married and have 4 daughters that keep me very busy as a driver for them! I love to watch and support their activities. When I get a chance, I play tennis, ride mountain or road bike and enjoy spending time with friends and family.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: Over the past 18 years I have seen this business grow from 5 staff to now employing 16 fantastic people. We have a great team environment with extremely capable and knowledgeable physios and an administration team that are super friendly, helpful and make our days flow seamlessly. We are like one big family!
Book With Nigel
Qualifications: BSc in Health Studies Physiotherapy, 2012, FH Campus Vienna, Austria MSc in Sports Physiotherapy, 2016, University Salzburg, Austria
Biography: I have worked for 5 years in a rehabilitation centre for neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, where I had the opportunity to increase my knowledge and skills in this area. Through a therapeutic climbing course, I also had the chance to combine my hobby and work in helping climbers safely return to sport and prevent injuries. I moved to New Zealand 2 years ago and joined You First Physio in 2019, where I am enhancing my knowledge, particularly in knee and shoulder rehabilitation.
Clinical interests: Rehabilitation of sports injuries, particularly of the knee and shoulder. Analysis of climbing injuries and rehab specific to their individual needs is one of my strengths and my passion. I enjoy keeping up with the latest evidence to enhance my patient care.
Hobbies/interests: I am a passionate climber and mountaineer, as well as a skier. I like to spend most of my weekends in the outdoors. I love exploring New Zealand’s hidden gems.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: Being a physiotherapist allows me to empower people to take control of their physical health and lead a healthy lifestyle. I also enjoy the challenge of guiding people towards their specific goals with an individualised mix of manual treatments, exercise and education. Being a part of You First Physio has been a fun journey where we are continuously learning from each other.
Book With Tanja
Qualifications: Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of Otago.
Biography: I started my journey into physiotherapy slightly late by deciding to hand in my job, stop running my Taekwondo club and move to Dunedin to study. It was one of the hardest things that I have done but I would highly recommend to anyone to aim high, give it a go and try their best. Since starting my studies, I now recognise how I have always loved analysing how the body moves, how we could create the movements to be most effective and how can we generate the most power.
Clinical Interests: Sports-related injuries, return to sport/ fitness rehab, strength and conditioning .
Hobbies/ interests: ITF Taekwondo, netball, soccer, Pilates, dancing (ballroom and Latin). I love going out and enjoying what New Zealand has to offer with outdoor activities, food and events.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: I enjoy physio because of its ability to help people. I love that we have the ability and the time to get to know a person. We can help a person holistically. Physio is my passion.
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy Ulster University 2017, MSc in Sport and Exercise Medicine Ulster University 2018, APPI Pilates Level 1 and 2
Biography: I grew up in Ireland and was active in sport at a young age, particularly Gaelic football and gymnastics. It was through coaching gymnastics that I gained a strong interest in analysing and refining movements. Upon graduating I have gained invaluable experience working in a mixture of private and public health settings in Ireland and New Zealand including elite sports teams in Gaelic football as lead physiotherapist for the county Antrim U20 team in 2018 and 2019.
Clinical interests: Rehabilitation of athletes and sports people particularly of the knee, hip and groin. ACL and post-operative shoulder rehabilitation. Pilates-based treatment. Treatment of motivated individuals be it acute or chronic.
Hobbies/interests: In my spare time you’ll find me playing Gaelic football, hurling in Hagley Park or exploring what this wonderful country has to offer.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: I love helping people to achieve their goals and get back to doing the things they love.
Book With Kelly
Qualifications:
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy 2018, Ulster University; MSc Strength and Conditioning 2014, Cardiff Metropolitan University; BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science 2012, Ulster University.
Biography:
I am from Ireland and have been living and working in New Zealand for the past three years. I played a lot of sport growing up including hurling and Gaelic football and this inevitably gave me the interest in human performance. I studied sport and exercise science and completed my masters in strength and conditioning and worked as a strength and conditioning coach for elite senior level Gaelic Football teams and international women’s soccer.
I decided to return to study physiotherapy. I have worked in private practice in Ireland and New Zealand and have experience in the public health system also. I have worked with several sports teams including intercounty level Gaelic football, South Island premier league football and senior rugby.
Clinical Interests:
Sports injuries including Hip and groin, knee and shoulder. I also have a special interest in return to sport phase from injury as this allow me to use my experience from my strength and conditioning roles.
Hobbies/Interests:
I still enjoy coaching and coach Gaelic Football in Christchurch. I like to play golf in my spare time and like to travel to experience what New Zealand has to offer.
Why you love being a physio/ part of a team?
I love being able to help clients achieve their goals of relieving their pain and returning to activity. I love learning and feel that physiotherapy is constantly evolving and this offers an exciting challenge as a physio to ensure that I continue to do the job to the best of my ability.
Qualifications: Bachelor of physiotherapy – University of Otago.
Biography: Born and bred in Otautahi, I grew up playing many different sports including netball, tennis, adventure racing, and running. My combined love for being active and working with people led me to pursue Physiotherapy studies. I started working for You First Physio in 2023.
Clinical interests: I have a particular interest in running-related injuries, and return to sport rehab.
Hobbies/interests: I am a passionate runner and enjoy spending my free time jogging up in the Port Hills. I enjoy biking around our beautiful city with friends, and stopping at a cafe for a coffee and sweet treat. I also love to go tramping with my family when possible, in New Zealand’s stunning outdoor scenes.
Why you love being a physio/part of a team: I love having the opportunity to connect with a wide range of people, and be able to journey with them through injury to return to what they enjoy doing. Everyone in the wonderful friendly You First Physio team is driven to provide the best care possible and help anyone surpass their goals.
Qualifications: Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of Otago.
Biography: I grew up and studied in Dunedin before moving to Christchurch and have loved being in the city since. I grew up playing a variety of sports, from football to hockey, to athletics. My involvement in these sports eventually resulted in my discovery of physiotherapy and sparked my interest in injury prevention and rehab.
Clinical interests: Sports-related injuries, return to sport / fitness rehab, strength and conditioning.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy all things fitness and outside of work you’ll likely find me in the gym, running or mountain biking.
Why you love being a physio/part of a team: I enjoy meeting new people and find satisfaction in using my knowledge to help them become pain-free and get back to the things they enjoy.
Qualifications: Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy, UCD Ireland
Biography: I was born and raised in rural Ireland, and studied Physiotherapy in University College Dublin. I worked in private practice in Ireland for 3 years, where I developed my MSK skills, as well as a love for mat Pilates. I also did some work with local Gaelic football and Hurling teams. I made the move across the world in 2021, and I lived and worked in Auckland for 2 years, before deciding to make the move down to the beautiful South Island.
Clinical Interests: My main interest is musculo-skeletal injuries, especially sports related injuries. I love incorporating my Pilates knowledge into treatment plans, and I am currently working on developing my women’s health skills.
Hobbies/interests: I love all things outdoors, especially hiking. One of the reasons I made the move to Christchurch was to explore more of the South Island, as I couldn’t seem to fit enough in small trips from Auckland. I also enjoy playing hockey when I can.
Why do you love being a physio/part of the team: I love meeting new people from all walks of life, and helping them get back to doing the things they love. I also love working with other physios as part of a team, and constantly learning new things.
Qualifications: Bachelor of Physiotherapy – University of Otago.
Biography: I grew up in a rural town south of Christchurch and moved to the city to pursue exciting opportunities at You First Physio. From a young age, it was evident I wanted to pursue a career combining sports, science and people. Growing up, I was a sporty kid, obtaining various injuries through the process. Physiotherapists along the way have inspired me to become the physiotherapist I am today.
Clinical interests: My interests lie in return to sports rehab and racquet-related sporting injuries.
Hobbies/interests: Outside the clinic, I live an active lifestyle, from hitting a tennis ball to gym-based training. A lot of my time is spent outdoors, specifically tramping, where I hope to complete more of New Zealand’s great walks.
Why you love being a physio/part of a team: My love for physiotherapy is driven by the people I encounter every day. I find it rewarding to see individuals reach their full potential as I support their journeys. Being a team player in an environment where we share the same visions is invaluable.
Physiotherapist
Qualifications: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (University of Otago)
Biography: I was born in Te Anau and grew up in Invercargill but have enjoyed being in the city. I have experience in being a sports medic for rugby and hockey.
Clinical interest: Sports related injuries, return to sport, strength and conditioning.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy many sports, in particular, I spend most of my time playing disc golf. Otherwise, you can find me at the gym or working on my car.
Why you love being a physio/part of the team: I have spent a lot of time with physio in my younger years and was always amazed at how they were able to get me back to sport. Now I enjoy being on the other side of treatment helping others get back to what they love doing.
Qualifications: Bachelor of Health Science (Podiatry) 2011
Biography: I moved to Christchurch in 2012 to pursue my podiatry career and have worked in private practice ever since. I established Foot Werks Podiatry in 2018 to be inclusive of all areas of foot health whether it be aged care, diabetic foot care, sports podiatry, toenails or corns.
Clinical interests: I am interested in all aspects of podiatry and like to keep active in all areas. I enjoy seeing positive change in my patients that I work with, by assisting in increasing function and reducing pain.
Hobbies/interests: I love getting outdoors, whether it be in the garden, walking, a game of tennis or planning a hike.
Why you love being part of the team: I am passionate about interdisciplinary practice and working within a physio practice allows me to action this in collaboration with other health professionals working towards positive health outcomes for the patient.
Qualifications:Diploma of Acupuncture 2010 (Level 7, four years full-time) at the New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine in Christchurch
A member of Acupuncture New Zealand
Biography:In the ten years since I graduated as an acupuncturist, I have added to my skill set by studying Zhu’s Scalp Acupuncture with Prof Zhu himself, auricular acupuncture with Jim Chalmers, musculo-skeletal treatment techniques with Phil Macqueen, acupuncture in pregnancy and childbirth with Dr Debra Betts, and an introduction to Kiiko-style Japanese acupuncture.
Clinical interests:I am a generalist who likes working with everyone who comes in for a consultation. I especially enjoy the unexpected results of treating scars (surgical or accidental/traumatic), because the changes to the appearance and sensation of touching the scars can be dramatic. My treatments have been particularly beneficial to people with shoulder, back and knee conditions, but acupuncture is a holistic therapy that can affect every aspect of a person, including their sleep, digestion, and wellbeing of the mind.
Hobbies / Interests:In my spare time I practise Sing Ong Tai Chi and enjoy walking and cycling. I set up The Summer Project | He Hui Raumati in Dec 2019 and have been busy organising a special event for Mental Health Awareness Week in Sept 2020.
Why I love being an acupuncturist and part of the physios’ team I get so much satisfaction from seeing people feeling better in themselves, usually leaving my room in much less pain than when they came in, and having hope that they can return to their normal levels of activity. The team of physios at You First are the best! They are professional, caring and good to work with. Why wouldn’t I want to work with professionals who enjoy themselves and are happy to welcome new people into their team? I’ve been with the team since 2013.
Biography: I am married with two children aged 18 and 16 and have lived in Christchurch all my life. I am involved with netball as a games official and also support my son in his rowing journey with his school. I have been working with You First physio for the last five years and I love the interactions that I have with our clients, and the variation within my role.
Why I love being a physio/part of the team: The team here are amazing to work alongside as they are very passionate about their role in helping clients to achieve their goals. It is a very friendly, fun and positive environment to be working in.
Biography: I began working with You First Physio in 2016 and have become extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of the patient’s journey and dealing with ACC. I keep the Riccarton site (and physios!) running smoothly and efficiently. I enjoy being able to interact with patients, and love being part of a great team.
Hobbies/interests: In my spare time I enjoy walking, biking, swimming, all things coffee, and hanging out with my husband Mark.
I work Wednesday afternoon through to Friday.
Biography: I have recently joined the team, working on Reception part time at both the Longhurst and Riccarton clinics.Being very much a people person I enjoy welcoming, interacting and assisting clients. I feel privileged to be part of a very friendly, happy environment, working with a passionate team of professionals.
Hobbies/interests: Outside of work I enjoy walking, tennis, dancing and spending time with family and friends.
It is our philosophy to deliver cost effective, high quality treatment, advice and education for people who suffer musculoskeletal injuries and problems.
Complete the form below to get in touch with your enquiry. we will be in touch if required as soon as possible
Signup to get the latest News & Resources
03 348 7965
