Our team constantly strive to go above and beyond to deliver expert care, advice and assistance to all patients.
Tātou tīma | Our team
Dermot Hurly
General Practitioner
I’m a GP here at Waiheke Medical Centre, and what I love most about my role is the opportunity to really get to know the people I treat. Building those genuine connections is at the heart of what I do, and I feel lucky to be part of such a friendly, inclusive team that balances a high level of professionalism with a truly welcoming atmosphere. When I’m not in the clinic, I’m usually making the most of the island life, either exploring the local walking trails or spending time in the garden.
In my clinical practice, I have a dedicated interest in supporting patients through complex chronic conditions. I provide specialized care for those navigating Long Covid, ME/CFS, POTS, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, alongside other related conditions. I am passionate about working closely with my patients to manage these intricate health journeys with both expertise and empathy.
Sheryl Howarth
General Practitioner
I have been a GP at Tend Constellation Drive for over 20 years, having qualified in 1998 and becoming a Fellow of the Royal College of General Practitioners. My clinical background is broad, but I have a particular interest in supporting active patients through my postgraduate diploma in sports medicine and my certificate in dive medicine. These qualifications allow me to provide specialized, informed care for those involved in aquatic activities or competitive sports.
Outside of the clinic, my life as a parent to six children, including two stepchildren, gives me a very practical understanding of the challenges families face. I know how difficult it can be to balance work, health, and a busy household, so I take pride in offering compassionate care that fits into real life. My goal is to support my patients and their families at every stage of life with medical advice that is both professional and deeply grounded in the reality of family wellbeing.
Paul Tuvae
Practice Coordinator AOD & Social Services
I wear a few different hats across Waiheke Medical Centre and Piritahi Hau Ora, but they all share a common goal: keeping our community thriving. Whether I’m behind the scenes as Practice Coordinator ensuring everything runs smoothly or working directly with whānau as a Social Services and Alcohol & Other Drug (AOD) Practitioner, my approach is simple; listen without judgment and meet people exactly where they are. I’m a firm believer that progress doesn’t have to be perfect; even the smallest steps move us in the right direction.
I love being part of a team that genuinely cares about the people of Waiheke. When I’m off the clock, I’m a dedicated family man, a massive Blues and All Blacks fan, and I usually have a few practical DIY projects on the go around the house.
Rachel Falconer
Nurse Lead
Kia ora koutou! I’ve been nursing for over 30 years, with the last 13 dedicated to the Waiheke community. I’m a big believer in a patient-centered approach—meeting you where you are to ensure your health journey is a positive one. While I care for all our patients, I have a special place in my heart for youth health and women’s wellness. For me, every day is a rewarding challenge because of the incredible diversity of people we see and the wide variety of health concerns we solve together.
The vibe here is truly special; I feel completely backed by our management, admin, and clinical whānau, which makes it easy to provide that same level of care to you. As the saying goes, He waka eke noa; we are all in this canoe together. When I’m not in the clinic, you’ll likely find me on the hockey turf chasing a tiny white ball with a stick. I’m also a firm believer in the power of a daily oat flat white, I need at least one to keep the engine running!
Cadence Anderson
Reception / Administration
I work across the front desk and call center, supporting patients with bookings, check-ins, and the daily administrative tasks that help the clinic run smoothly. I enjoy creating a welcoming environment and always aim to make sure every patient feels comfortable and well looked after from the moment they arrive. Being part of such a supportive team is a highlight for me, and I love having the opportunity to help our community every day.
Outside of the clinic, I’m usually found out on the moana, exploring Aotearoa on road trips, or heading along to festivals. I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie and always keen to try something new, though I always return to the whakataukī: “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” reminding me that people are truly the most important thing in the world.
Jessica Mead
Nurse Practitioner Intern
I’ve been nursing for 15 years, with the last eight spent right here on Waiheke across all three local practices. Many of you might recognize me from the Acute Walk-in Clinic, but my background is quite diverse, ranging from serving as a medic in the New Zealand Army to working as a safety advisor in the oil and gas industry. I’m currently completing my Nurse Practitioner Internship with the incredible support of both Waiheke Medical and Piritahi Hau Ora, a role that allows me to provide thorough 30-minute assessments alongside my GP mentors to ensure everyone in our community gets the high-quality care they need.
There is a lot of hard work and plenty of laughs that go into caring for our community, and I love being part of a team that stays steady when things get acute. When I’m not at the clinic, I’m navigating life in a tiny container home with my daughter and a lively crew of two dogs and two rescue cats who definitely run the show. I’m a big believer in Newton’s Law of Inertia as a health tip: if we want something to change, we often have to be the ones to take that first step and create the momentum.
Mahani Ripikoi
Reception
As a receptionist, my goal is to make your experience with us as smooth and welcoming as possible. Whether you need help booking an appointment, navigating our services, or simply have a general question, I am here to assist. I truly love the variety that comes with this role, meeting new people every day and ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels supported and well looked after.
I feel very lucky to be part of such a diverse and supportive team where we all pull together to provide the best possible care for our patients. Outside of the clinic, you’ll likely find me at the beach with friends or out exploring new foods and dining experiences. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, whether it’s a high or a low, and I try to bring that positive perspective into everything I do.
Jude Williams
Reception Lead
Keeping the energy high and the daily operations smooth across both our Waiheke and Piritahi clinics is what I do best. As the Reception Lead, I’m all about ensuring our teams are synced up and our patients feel supported from the moment they walk through the door. For me, health isn’t just about the physical, it’s a holistic "big picture" that includes the mind and soul too!
I’m lucky enough to work with a crew of genuinely cool, fun people who make every shift a pleasure. When I’m not at the front desk, you’ll likely find me tending to my ever-growing collection of houseplants.
Vicki Tataurangi
Awhi Ora Support Worker
Luca Nolan
Health Improvement Practitioner
I began my journey in healthcare at the front desk of Waiheke Medical Centre before moving to Piritahi Hau Ora, an experience that gave me a deep understanding of how our clinics connect with the community. Today, I balance my time between reception and my role as an Awhi Ora Support Worker, where I provide person-centered support for those facing challenges in their daily lives. Whether I’m assisting with bookings or helping someone access social services and personal development goals, I love being part of a team that ensures everyone feels heard and connected to the right resources.
I am a firm believer in the whakataukī, “Mā ngā mahi iti ka tutuki ngā mea nui” through small actions, great things are achieved. This philosophy guides how I work alongside individuals at their own pace to improve their overall wellbeing and navigate community support services. When I’m off the clock, I’m all about making the most of island life and spending quality time with my whānau.
I’m the new Health Improvement Practitioner at Waiheke Medical Centre, bringing experience from working in mental health across South Auckland with people of all ages and backgrounds. My role as a HIP is all about having focused, supportive discussions to help you navigate whatever life throws your way—whether that’s a specific diagnosis or just the everyday struggles we all face. I’m here to help you figure out practical strategies to better your situation and support your wellbeing, one step at a time.
Even as a relative newcomer to the island, I’ve been blown away by how much this community feels like one big whānau. The warm welcome from both my colleagues and patients has made me feel right at home! Outside of the clinic, you’ll likely find me boxing or immersed in a game of Dungeons & Dragons—and I’m always on the lookout for locals to join me in either. Having spent two years of my childhood living on a boat, being surrounded by the ocean again is a dream come true. I always keep the mantra "this too shall pass" in mind; it’s a helpful reminder that no matter how tough a situation feels, there is always an end in sight.
