Takanini Clinic

Richard has over 20 years of experience in private practice since graduating from the University of Otago, with a strong focus on musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy.

He leads our Takanini clinic and has a particular interest in both acute and chronic injury management, with a clinical approach centred around identifying the underlying drivers of pain and preventing re-injury long term.

Richard has worked with a wide range of sporting teams, including premier club rugby and football, as well as representative netball, giving him extensive experience in managing high-performance and complex sporting injuries.

He is known for his thorough and analytical approach to assessment and rehabilitation, combining clinical reasoning with practical, results-driven treatment plans.

Outside the clinic, Richard has a strong sporting background himself, having competed in badminton at regional representative level, and participated in a variety of sports including soccer, cricket, water polo, and half marathons. More recently, much of his time outside of work is spent supporting his children’s sporting pursuits, particularly in the swimming and athletics community, where he remains actively involved.

Rochelle completed her Bachelor of Health Science (Physiotherapy) in 2015 and has been a valued member of the Physio Mechanics team ever since. She has completed postgraduate training in rehabilitation and pain management through AUT, and has further developed her expertise in women’s and pelvic health physiotherapy, supporting women with a wide range of pelvic floor conditions.

Rochelle has a strong clinical interest in helping patients restore confidence, function, and control through tailored, evidence-based rehabilitation. Her approach combines hands-on treatment, education, and progressive exercise to support long-term recovery and meaningful outcomes. Alongside her pelvic health work, she continues to treat general musculoskeletal and post-injury conditions, with a focus on helping patients return to full function and activity.

She is known for her warm, approachable manner and ability to make patients feel comfortable and supported from their very first appointment, particularly in what can often be sensitive or personal areas of care. Rochelle has been passionate about physiotherapy from a young age and continues to be driven by seeing patients achieve their full potential through rehabilitation.

James is a Physiotherapist with a strong focus on exercise rehabilitation and return-to-sport performance, combining clinical physiotherapy with his background as a qualified personal trainer. He is currently completing further postgraduate studies in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at AUT, strengthening his clinical knowledge in injury management, rehabilitation, and performance-based recovery.

James is highly passionate about using exercise as medicine, with a strong belief that structured, progressive loading is key to both recovery and long-term physical health. He specialises in gym-based rehabilitation and enjoys helping patients rebuild strength, confidence, and capacity following injury. He also utilises return-to-sport testing and technology-based assessment tools to objectively measure progress and support safe return to activity and sport. James is trained in dry needling, which he incorporates where appropriate to assist with pain management and muscle recovery. His clinical approach is practical, performance-focused, and strongly outcomes driven, with a focus on getting people back to doing what they love in a stronger and more resilient way.

Outside of work, James enjoys football, gaming, and spending time with friends, family, and his dog.