Staff
Karla Gunby
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 8)
manager@ms-pd.org.nz
I have a strong background in community development and social enterprise, having worked as an adviser for nearly 7 years with the Christchurch City Council. Before that I ran the Multicultural Services Centre in Wellington and disability organisations in London and Melbourne.
Bridget Paterson
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 9)
fundraiser@ms-pd.org.nz
Most recently I owned a boutique jewellery store in The Arts Centre but prior to that I had a fundraising and marketing background, working for several sports organisations and then the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust for 11 years.
Kirsty Boggi
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 6)
support@ms-pd.org.nz
I have a support services based background from the government sector in the United Kingdom where I worked for the past 20 years before returning home to New Zealand.
Deb Ballantyne
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 4)
nurse@ms-pd.org.nz
My background is in Community Nursing. I have 12 years experience in this role including RN work, education and advocacy.
Lesley Williams
Social Activities Coordinator
(03) 366 2857
lesley.williams@xtra.co.nz
I have been at MS and Parkinson's for 5 years, mainly doing my morning tea socialisingand sharing any members comments andupdates with staff concerned. Sometimes I halp with fundraising and have even managed our Friday gym! Prior to this I worked at Kilmarnock Enterprises for 27 years.
Lisa Wood
(03) 366 2857
aljwood@outlook.com
I’ve been practicing yoga for over 20 years and teaching for 14 years. I’m a IYTA (NZ) International Yoga Teachers Association qualified yoga teacher. I’ve taught at the society for over 10 years. The classes at the society are a pleasure and a delight to teach. Yoga has many benefits for mind, body and soul and it’s a real privilege to pass on that information. When I’m not teaching yoga or volunteering for St John I love to explore the Port Hills with my border terrier Monty.
Elspeth McKeon
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 3)
nurse@ms-pd.org.nz
My nursing background has been varied with my most recent experience as a Practice Nurse in a GP office. Prior to this, I was a neuroscience RN case manager in a large academic institution in the USA. I am excited to be working in the field of neurosciences again as this is my true passion.
Kim Veenings
Exercise Group Leader
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 6)
exercise.class@ms-pd.org.nz
I trained as a personal trainer after the Canterbury earthquakes as a way to help myself with spinal injuries and have worked with MS and parkinson's since then. I also work with falls prevention in the community as I know first hand how important exercise is.
Lee Macintosh
(03) 366 2857
leemackintosh83@hotmail.com
I am a REP’s registered personal trainer and endurance coach, with a deep interest and passion for human performance, health and wellbeing. I am constantly seeking to broaden my skills as a trainer. My aim is to develop autonomy in people and for them to be able to exercise safely and efficiently without a trainer.
Tara Martin
(03) 366 2857 (ext. 1)
physio@ms-pd.org.nz
I have been working as a physiotherapist with people with neurological conditions in Christchurch for the last 12 years in the public and private sector. Prior to that I lived in the UK and worked in large NHS teaching hospitals. Before training as a physio I trained as an opera singer and still perform regularly in Christchurch.
Kate Webb
Social Activities and Workshop Coordinator
(03) 366 2857
social@ms-pd.org.nz
My varied background most recently comprises of working with a number of charitable organisations and not for profit organisations across the Canterbury region. With a passion for enhancing community connections, capacity building for the voluntary sector, marketing/events and fundraising, I am passionate about making a difference within the community and enhancing the lives of others.