Get to know us
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Diploma in Physiotherapy
Diploma in Manipulative Therapy
NZ Registered Physiotherapy Acupuncturist
Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Physiotherapy
Certified Kinesio Practitioner
Matamata is home for me now, but I grew up in Te Aroha on a dairy farm before studying physiotherapy. Once I qualified, I was off on my big OE, and worked in both London and Sydney before returning home.
I’ve since worked closer to home – in Hamilton, Rotorua and in the community around the Matamata-Piako district.
Being an enthusiastic Aries, I love people and I love my job. I’m passionate about the clients that come to us, and being able to help them get their quality of life back again. Infact, if I won Lotto I would work less and do more voluntary activities.
Buying the Matamata clinic in 1996 has allowed me the flexibility to get out in the community more. An important part of the service we offer is being able to support our local rugby teams. In the past I have been the physio for the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ team (a feeder for the NPC, Super Rugby and All Blacks) so I’m now a avid rugby fan and loyal supporter of ‘my boys’!
When I’m not working you’ll usually find me outdoors being active, at the beach, walking, or fishing with my son.
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BHSc Physiotherapy
Alistair was first introduced to Matamata Physiotherapy Clinic whilst undertaking work experience when studying physiotherapy through Auckland University of Technology. Subsequent work experience followed at Waikato Hospital and then, when fully qualified, Alistair returned to us in Matamata. He is now a popular, permanent member of our small team.
Being outdoors people, Alistair and his partner wanted to get out of the city and love the lifestyle Matamata offers. They love the region as it has a friendly community and is so central to so many attractions.
Growing up in Lower Hutt, Alistair spent much of his time playing soccer, golf, tennis, anything outdoors basically – and consequently got to experience physio treatment first hand. Although these days with a young family, he tends to watch more sport than he plays he tells us. Just ask him which English football team he supports!
A career in physiotherapy was a natural choice for Alistair and he says he really enjoys seeing people reach their goals and assisting them in improving their physical wellbeing.
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Our friendly receptionist and office extraordinaire
When you visit Matamata Physio you’ll be greeted by Sandy who keeps our clinic running. The fact that Sandy is another active relaxer who loves people meant she slotted easily into our team.
Sandy’s lifelong love of the outdoors and horses has given her some amazing experiences over the years, including travelling Europe extensively as a groom.
Sandy says that when the world settles down, more travel is definitely on her bucket list!
Janet Wagstaff
Diploma in Physiotherapy
Diploma in Manipulative Therapy
NZ Registered Physiotherapy Acupuncturist
Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Physiotherapy
Certified Kinesio Practitioner
Alistair Basalaj
BHSc Physiotherapy
Sandy Handley
Our friendly receptionist and office extraordinaire