Meet the team!
Evans Osteopaths was established in 2004 by Neil Evans and we have been growing through word of mouth ever since! We are a fully ACC Registered practice based in Hawkes Bay and provide osteopathic treatment in our Napier, Hastings and Waipukurau clinics.
We now have a great team of highly trained Osteopaths working in our three clinics across Hawkes Bay. Get to know the team below! :)
Our Osteopaths
Neil Evans
DO ND (Hons)
I graduated from the British College of Naturopathy and Osteopathy in 1990. After qualifying I spent three years working in Hawkes Bay before returning to the UK.
In 2004 my wife and I decided to move to Hawkes Bay to live. The relaxed, outdoor lifestyle plus the weather were too much to resist.
I see a variety of spinal, muscle and joint problems, and have an interest in treating sports injuries. Whilst in England I ran a dedicated sport injury clinic looking after many elite and professional athletes as well as plenty of "weekend warriors!"
I enjoy attending post graduate courses each year, as I still (after all this time) love to learn and these courses provide me with new techniques and methods that keep my approach to patients problems fresh.
I really enjoy my job and never mind going to work. I see patients of all ages and from all walks of life. I love the variety of patients I work with and still get a kick out of helping people feel pain free again!
I love sport, (both playing and watching) and the outdoors. I enjoy mountain biking,road cycling, soccer, squash and golf. When time permits I love hiking and camping with the family.
Matthew Judge
M.Ost, PgDip(PD)
Matthew grew up in England and trained at the highly reputable European School of Osteopathy, where he obtained a master's degree in Osteopathy (M.Ost) with first class honours. He exceeded 1200 hours practice over two years working in the adult, child, sports and headache clinics there. Since then he has gained two postgraduate diplomas in paediatrics (PD) - specifically 'Infant & Young Child' and 'Adolescent' health essentials, as well as a post-grad in 'Kinesiology Taping'. He has now been practising at Evans Osteopaths for over four years!
He utilises his expertise in applying a diverse range of specialised techniques, personalised to the patient's condition and preference. He enjoys treating all people, from neonates to centenarians! He says: "part of why I love my work so much is helping a massive variety of people and conditions". He's passionate about a few particular areas and as a result, has particular expertise within these. These areas include: chronic pain, sports injuries, headaches and migraines, and expectant mothers and infants.
Matthew is a keen sportsman who enjoys and understands many different sports, having reached regional levels in hockey and golf. This passion for sports also encompasses advanced knowledge in exercise-based interventions for all conditions. In fact, Matthew wrote his master's dissertation on ‘Achilles tendinopathy in the running population’, having identified plantarflexion strength as a key component in the rehabilitation process following research.
Matthew comments, "I look holistically at every individual, not just at the area of pain. By taking time to listen and assess an individual’s function, the root cause can be identified and treated - facilitating recovery as well as preventing recurrence. In addition, I am passionate about always empowering patients through effective exercise advice and helping them to fully understand their condition. I aim to be professional yet personable and someone who you can talk to about anything".
Tsitsi 'Maria' Gwekwerere
M.Ost
I was born in Zimbabwe, and grew up in the UK, where I graduated with a Masters of Osteopathy in 2018 at Swansea University.
Since graduating I have worked in a multi practitioner clinic in Solihull UK. This opportunity allowed me to become confident in my patient centred management approach towards acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Along with this I enjoy treating various types of aches and pain, which can range from office workers, pregnant women and sports players.
As part of my holistic treatment approach I like using various methods including; joint manipulation, soft tissue techniques, postural advice and rehabilitative exercises. In my spare time I enjoy travelling, taking part in pilates, walking, cooking and looking after my adorable nephew.
Ilona Hamer
M.Ost
I was born in France, grew up in Reunion Island, and studied in the UK at the European School of Osteopathy where I graduated with a Master’s Degree. I grew up with a dad competing in ultramarathons who took me on many training sessions and hikes through our tropical mountains. Here in New Zealand I am planning on becoming more serious at long distance running, get started at cycling and hike whenever possible. I also have more than 10 years of experience in horse riding.
My favourite aspect of osteopathy is the partnership that I get to develop with my patients and I particularly enjoy discussing our goals and working towards achieving them together. My treatments combine osteopathic techniques and exercises to give my patients the tools to stay as active and mobile as possible, prevent and recover from injuries, and relieve posture related issues. I use a wide range of techniques – from the ‘softer’ functional ones to the ‘strongest’ structural ones – and as such can easily adapt to my patients’ needs or preferences.
Colette Humphrey
M.Ost
I was born and raised in Napier, moving to Auckland to complete my tertiary studies. I have recently graduated from the Unitec Institute of Technology with my Masters of Osteopathy.
I have always been involved in sport, having been a competitive swimmer from a young age and playing volleyball and netball during my school years. This has been a large influence in my interest in becoming an osteopath.
I use a range of soft tissue, joint specific techniques, rehabilitative exercises and advice to address a variety of acute and chronic musculoskeletal complaints. I believe great results can be achieved when the bigger picture is considered rather than focussing only on the symptomatic area. I enjoy collaborating with the patient throughout the treatment and management process with the aim of restoring optimal health.
Natalie Groundwater
M.Ost
Born and raised in Hawkes Bay, I spent a year in the UK working and travelling before moving to Christchurch where I graduated with a Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Health and Postgraduate Diploma in Osteopathy from Ara Institute of Technology.
I have always enjoyed the outdoors and playing sport, I played a variety of sport in high school and continued netball through university. I enjoy hiking and am hoping to explore more of the North Island tracks while I’m in Hawkes Bay.
I look forward to treating a variety of patients at Evans osteopaths and have a particular interest in Women’s health which I am keen to further my skills in. I enjoy using a range of techniques including soft tissue, functional, articulatory, visceral and manipulative techniques to treat the body holistically.
David Guzdek
M.Ost
I was born and raised in the Czech Republic, and I pursued my studies at Swansea University in Wales, where I successfully earned my Master's degree in Osteopathy.
With an unwavering passion for an active lifestyle, I've always been drawn to sports and movement, which often came with injuries. During my time at the Swansea University clinic, I had abundant opportunities to refine my treatment and rehabilitation skills across a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions.
I find satisfaction in adopting a patient-centric approach, tailoring my treatments to the unique needs of each individual. Whether it involves joint manipulation, soft tissue techniques, or providing training advice, my ultimate goal is to facilitate holistic healing. Beyond my osteopathic pursuits, you'll often find me engrossed in various sports, indulging my love for hiking and rock climbing, while also exploring the beauty of the great outdoors.
I love spending quality time with friends and immersing myself in cooking traditional Czech meals.
Eleisha Kundi
M.Ost
I was born and raised in the UK and studied at Swansea University where I graduated with a Master’s degree in Osteopathy. Growing up, I participated in a variety of sports such as netball, rounders, and trampolining. I've always loved team sports, but since starting university, I've discovered a new love for the gym. I now enjoy strength training and competing against myself to get stronger and fitter. This newfound passion for the gym has increased my respect for the body and its abilities, as well as my interest in its rehabilitation. Increasing my passion for osteopathy! My favourite aspect of being an osteopath is seeing the benefit of treatment on my patients and creating a good rapport with them . I use a variety of techniques, including joint mobilisation , manipulation and soft tissue techniques, in conjunction with exercise and lifestyle advice, to provide my patients with a comprehensive experience and help them regain their independence. In my spare time I enjoy the beach, the se a, going to church, and anything to do with dogs!
Yasmin Byrd
M.Ost
I am from London, and completed my Masters Degree in Osteopathy with First Class Honours at Swansea University.
I am a football player, and a sporty individual all round who loves anything gym or activity related. This feeds into my interest in health, rehabilitation and injury management- some key aspects of osteopathy.
I believe that considering patients holistically is key to understanding the root cause of musculoskeletal complaints and allows patients to find health overall rather than treating symptoms alone.
I enjoy working in a large osteopathic team and a busy clinic! I love seeing a variety of patients from different backgrounds and I look forward to meeting you!
Lucas Bailey-Thomas
M.Ost
I grew up in Somerset, England. I studied on a Masters of Osteopathy program at Swansea University where I received a 1st class honours. I have gained extensive experience in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions through my clinical placements within the NHS and the institution’s clinic.
I enjoy meeting patients from all walks of life, and finding out about all aspects of your story that might contribute to your complaint. Together we will build a personalised, tailored management plan to address the root cause of your complaint and build future resilience. I am dedicated to continuous learning and regularly attend post-graduate courses to stay updated with the latest techniques and advancements in osteopathy.
I grew up playing football, rugby, Brazilian jiujitsu and more recently enjoyed strength training in the gym. Growing up on the coast, I feel at home by the beach. I’m a bit wobbly on the ol’ surf board, but I enjoy it nonetheless! I have backpacked to many countries in Asia and South/Central America, and plan on travelling around New Zealand and the surrounding area. I look forward to meeting you and helping you on your journey to better health.
Freya Sullivan
M.Ost
I was born and raised in the United Kingdom and completed my Masters degree in Osteopathy at Swansea University.
Growing up I found myself participating in various sports and always enjoyed throwing myself into new activities and opportunities. I have played football from the age of 4 and participated all over the world at various levels. Football has introduced me into the need for good body health and nutrition for injury prevention as well as rehabilitation.
My passion for Osteopathy and helping my patients understand their musculoskeletal issues stemmed from the help i’ve received with injuries in the past. My goal as an Osteopath is to tailor my appointments to each individual working with them using a variety of techniques including joint manipulation, providing advice, setting goals, mobilisation and soft tissue techniques providing an overall holistic approach to benefit patients. I look forward to treating a variety of patients from a variety of backgrounds.
Other than football and osteopathy I love sports (winter and summer), the outdoors, travelling, and anything animal related!
Zara Evans
M.Ost
Hi, I’m Zara! I was born in the UK but raised in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay before moving to Christchurch to study osteopathy. I graduated with a Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Health and a Postgraduate Diploma in Osteopathy from the Ara Institute of Technology.
My passion for osteopathy was sparked (whether fortunately or unfortunately!) by my dad, Neil Evans, owner of Evans Osteopaths. Growing up with a strong sporting background, playing squash at a competitive level, and enjoying the outdoors, I was no stranger to injuries. That’s when I truly began to appreciate how effective osteopathy can be in treating and preventing them.
As an Osteopath, my approach is centred on understanding each individual’s unique needs. I focus on identifying the root causes of pain and discomfort and creating personalised treatment plans to alleviate pain, improve movement, and support long-term health. My goal is to help my patients lead active and pain-free lives.
I’m incredibly excited to be back in the Bay and look forward to meeting you all!
Our receptionists
Sandra 'Sandy' Welsh
"Hawke’s Bay is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and the outdoors is definitley my happy place. I enjoy gardening, hiking, riding my bike or riding my horse. My role at Evans Osteopaths as Practice Manager offers a range of interesting tasks for a busy practice. We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of Practitioners and administration staff which make for a great working environment.”
Beverly 'Bev' Dewey
Bev is known as 'mama Bev' at the clinic, as she states: "I'm here for you like your parent's would be!" She is very family orinatated and spends her spare time enjoying caring for her grandchildren and family.
Bev has now worked at Evans Osteopaths for over five years and she prides herself on fitting patients in and working things around to suit you. Everyone knows Bev as a lovely and social woman who loves going out and having fun!
Annabelle Campbell
I am born and bred in Rural Central Hawke’s Bay. My husband Malcolm and I are currently farming in the Waipawa District. We have 3 daughters and have a menagerie of pets at our Argyll home. When I am not in reception, I am running my own Hockey Coaching business, travelling around the country side for our daughter’s highland dancing competitions or at home keeping the ship running. I enjoy baking and cooking, playing and coaching hockey and I love spending time with friends and family. I also love to dive into a good book. I am loving the challenges and the fast pace environment at Evans Osteopaths, I love meeting new people and enjoy being apart of the Evans Osteopaths team.
Want to join the team?
Check out our video below if you're interested in becoming a team member! Work as an Osteopath in Hawkes Bay and enjoy our beautiful sunshine, beaches, wineries, and the list goes on!
To apply, or with any questions, you may have about the job or what it is like to work as an Osteopath in Hawkes Bay, please contact us at: joinus@evansosteopaths.co.nz with a cover letter and CV.
Locations
Hastings
400 Charles Street, Hastings.
Napier
2 Wilding Avenue, Napier.
Waipukurau
11 Northumberland Street, Waipukurau.
Phone: 06 870 3490
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