
Meet Our Team
We’re the team at Allied Medical and we’re here to make either prescribing or purchasing assistive technology easier for you. We’re a close knit team united by a passion for keeping people moving.
Aaron Sandford
I love my role as it shows that we care by having someone deliver and set up parts, whether it is a power chair, manual chair or just a cushion, we only want the best for that person and give it a personal touch.
I have a goal at the gym that I am working towards. I would love to get 250kgs on my deadlift, 165kgs for my bench press and 250kgs for my squat. Fingers crossed.
Mmmm.. Foood .. Steak. No Lasagna. No Ribs. No, Steak. definitely Steak.
Alex Sim
Welcoming, Motivating, Empowering.
I am working towards expanding my skill set in the AML Team.
My go to weekend activity is going off-roading with my mates, exploring all around NZ and finding cool and unique places to go to.
Annette Jamison
I love that we directly contribute to helping others live fuller, healthier, and more independent lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that what we do each day has a meaningful impact — improving mobility, confidence, and overall quality of life for so many people.
Showing my children the world and exploring new places. Whether it’s a hidden beach close by or overseas to experience somewhere completely new. Exploring together has become one of the most meaningful ways we connect as a family.
Explore the Fijian Islands. Dravuni Island was magical, I'm sure there are many others like it.
Anna Nikolaeva
My favourite thing about working at Allied Medical is the energy and transparency. We share information openly, we’re always busy and keep moving forward. It’s real, it’s dynamic, and it makes every day interesting!
I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved in New Zealand over the past two years — completing my MBA, transitioning from the pharmaceutical industry to assistive technologies, and growing within Allied Medical. Moving from Moscow with my family, I feel deeply connected to this new industry, community, and the life we’re building here.
I love living in a beautiful New Zealand suburb surrounded by green fields and beaches — but still close enough to Auckland, my love, for some extreme shopping when needed! It’s the perfect balance between raising my kids and enjoying a bit of city buzz when the mood strikes.
A surprising fact about me: I’m a terrible singer — as we joke, “a bear stepped on a tone!” — but I absolutely adore singing in a choir.
Bruce Francis
The work that I am doing directly impacts and improves the lives of members of the community.
Taking a moment to enjoy my morning coffee.
If I had to eat only one meal for the rest of my life, it would be a Bacin Buttie, washed down with my morning coffee.
Chanelle Ellis
Being part of a dedicated team that works together to make a positive difference in people’s everyday lives.
My morning coffee — it’s my little moment of calm before the day begins.
I would love to visit Japan to experience its rich culture, fascinating history, and incredible food.
Chris McLennan-Fryer
A standout moment for me has been getting out in the field and seeing the real difference we make in our customers’ lives. One that really stuck with me was helping a customer try one of our new outdoor wheelchairs, which allowed him to get back down to the beach with his wife for the first time in 30 years.
It might sound a bit cliché, but the person who inspires me most is my dad. Without him, I wouldn’t be in the industry I’m in today. He’s the one who taught me everything I know about sales and assistive technology, and the importance of treating every client with respect and care. My passion for finding the right solutions really comes from him – he’s the reason I love what I do.
Italy - without a doubt!! I’d go back in a heartbeat. I loved my time there in 2024, and I’d happily return just for the food alone - but the wine, coffee, and amazing people make it even better.
Chris Summers
The best part is knowing the work actually matters. Every day contributes to helping someone live with more independence or comfort, and that gives the job real purpose.
My family — seeing the kids grow, work hard, and develop their own strengths motivates me to keep improving and setting the right example.
If the weather’s good, I’m at the beach or out on the jetski — fishing, exploring, or just enjoying being on the water. If the weather’s bad, I’m at home throwing darts and trying to convince myself I’m actually getting better at it.
Christine de Jong
Being welcomed into a Team of friendly, warm and compassionate people.
Especially proud moment was becoming New Zealand Rummikub Champion in 2009, then playing in the world championships in Spain where I finished 5th.
In a heartbeat, Italy.
Craig Blank
Being able to help people with a new life and make them smile and feel like they are someone again.
I am very passionate about amateur Theatre . I build sets and stage manage . Lighting and soundwith a little bit of acting as well.
To Italy to taste the great food and to experience the lifestyle.
Daniel De Ramos
Coming in and being able to brighten the mood around my team but also being a part of making someone's life better in the long run.
Don't ever think you're not good enough, and use that as motivation to get better and better.
Is it cheating to say most Asian countries? I would do a massive trip across a lot of them and turn it into a foodie trip (with way too much eating).
Dean Jenkins
Providing the end user with the correct product for a better quality of life.
Somehow managing to produce 2 kids just before my peak at 50.
My favourite book is The Count of Monte Cristo.
Dominique Benavides
My favourite thing about working at Allied Medical is to have the opportunity of creating awareness about products that create a positive impact on people’s lives.
Outside of work I really love teaching dance and organising events.
I could eat watermelon till the day I die, if that counts. Otherwise, pastel de choclo.
Grace Dickie
Knowing that our products help someone get on with everyday life. Her favourite pastimes are gardening, fishing and walking. On weekends you’ll find her with a paint brush in hand, renovating her house. Grace can’t sit still.
Helping an artist find a wheelchair that was suitable to help him continue painting.
Grant Hetherington
Travelling NZ in his English caravan with his wife. They have been EVERYWHERE and love meeting people on their getaway’s. Grant's new puppy Maggie loves travelling with them and recently had her first swim at Lake Dunstan. Grant's hobbies include biking, fishing and exploring NZ as they all sit well with the caravan road trip.
Rejoining the Allied Medical Team. After 30 plus years in the New Zealand Assistive Technology business it’s great to be back with an NZ, family owned business that upholds great service values to their people and customers. I feel blessed to be back with this amazing team. Looking forward to many more favourite Allied Medical moments.
Guy Wright
I think a lot of us are the same - We love helping people to live their lives to the fullest. Putting assistive technology in place and seeing changes in function is a pretty special thing to be involved with on a day to day basis.
I'm an avid gardener. I wouldn't say I am great at gardening but the awesome thing about getting in the garden is there is no deadline, KPI, or anything you need to adhere to. You just do what you like. If you miss something this year you will get it next. You experiment with where things grow best, dig them up, move them round. I sometimes help with other older peoples gardens and for 5 months of the year I provide flowers for a local cafe every week as sharing is caring :-)
Coffee with the family is always on the cards once I can get them up and out and about on Saturdays.
Hannah Nelson
My favourite thing about working at Allied Medical is hearing the happy responses from our lovely customers. I feel really proud of our team for creating a life changing impact for our customers. Empowering people to live with dignity can mean the world to them.
Inside and Outside of work, I am really passionate about being creative and make sure I do something inventive everyday. I love to paint landscapes and sketch realism portraits. I'm currently learning how to use gouache paint and I'm really enjoy this so far. I also love to experiment with fun flavours in dinner recipes.
My go To Weekend activity is to make sure I'm outdoors. This could be a walk in the sun, swimming at the beach, walking doggies and learning a new activity/experience. I've always been an outdoorsy person and love the sunshine. I also love exploring new restaurants in new places.
Hoover
Snoring under the desks, chewing anything that isn't tied down and melting hearts with pure cuteness.
All the cuddles from the Allied Team Members
Hugh Skiffington
Compassionate, Reliable, Empathetic
Achieving success is 80% who you are (mindset, psychology, character, and communication) and only 20% technical skills.
I was born with Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA), a congenital heart defect, and underwent a double bypass procedure when I was a baby.
Jessica Bramwell
One of my first paediatric set ups. They were incredibly shy but as soon as they got into their chair they were the loudest person in the room. They couldn’t stop smiling and laughing, which makes the job worthwhile.
Coming to New Zealand. Who would have thought I’d like the place!
My mum’s spring rolls. Best spring rolls you’ll ever have!
Jill Watts
Rehab and Mobility. Be it seeing a child stand for the first time or putting someone into their first Power Chair - Jill’s happy. Between walking, biking and spending time with loved ones, including her fur baby, Jill can juggle many things at once. Including literally being able to juggle.
Working with a great Team of people who I can call when need be and get advice so we can provide the best solution to a clients needs.
Jim Jamison
As an apprentice I help hasten the assembly and troubleshooting of the more common products, doing my part to get everyone a better experience.
I have a passion for computers and the digital world; it's always fascinated me how the future will twist and change my hobby.
Life isn't a straight line, most things you can go back and try again.
Katie Noble
For those who know me, you'll know I'm a bit of a talker so I decided to take up the challenge to describe Allied Medical in three words: Empowering. Innovative. Trusted.
Without question, what I’m most proud of is building this business alongside my Dad - not just my greatest mentor, but my biggest cheerleader and the person who’s believed in me from day one. His endless optimism and generosity of spirit have carried all of us through the toughest moments, and his quiet but unwavering kindness has definitely shaped the way we do business and so much of my own leadership style.
I feel truly blessed to have worked alongside him for so many years - it's an exceptional opportunity that I know few daughters get. He’s taught me that business is never just about strategy or spreadsheets — it’s about people, purpose, and doing the right thing even when no one’s watching. He’s shown me that true leadership is measured not by titles or accolades, but by the impact you have on those around you and the legacy you leave behind.
Outside of Allied Medical, I love nothing better than competing in a fun run or walk of some type with my family. Each week, we do the Monday Underground in our local neighbourhood, which is a great way to start the week, but also connect with lots of friends and neighbours. I always seem to find a friend to walk the 5 km with, ensuring that both our bodies and vocal cords get a good workout!
Katrina Clough
Outback – The prospect of people being able to access beaches, farms, rough terrain to be able to get back to places they love and doing it with family and friends or being independent and doing it by themselves.
Buying a house when I was 25.
Back to New York.
Kelly Jackson
Working alongside therapists to provide solutions that allow our clients to live their best lives.
Each time I have moved to a different country solo with just a rucksack on my back - awesome things have happened. NZ must be pretty good, as I've been here a while now!
Adventures in nature with friends - good for the soul.
Ken Noble
Working with the Allied Medical team who continually exceed expectations. Ken is also very active in the community from volunteering to mentoring nine companies, and being a Trustee at Hospice North Shore. Ken enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, travel and lazy time at the beach.
Establishing Allied Medical in 1998 with Katie, partnering with great suppliers and clients, having an incredible team and enjoying the journey.
Kendall Hewetson
A teenage client, resistant at first, then embracing the chance to try a Meywalk, which was an instant success as soon they got it home, and she could watch Mum prepare dinner in the kitchen for the first time ever. The whole family was overjoyed!
Gardening - especially growing food and encouraging birds and insects, or just being out in nature. Any chance I can get for a bushwalk is heaven on earth for me!
Iceland - it looks beautiful and otherworldly, it's been on 'the list' for a while, just need that Lotto win..!
Louis Heath
Passionate – Dedicated – Important
Overcoming life-changing injury.
Sports and games with my 2 children
Lyn Green
Being in an industry that helps people. She loves that the equipment we supply can make a difference to people’s lives. Not just a true Kopite (Liverpool supporter), Lyn also once swam across the Auckland Harbour from the North Shore for the Ocean Swim Series.
When out with the Techs and Sales Team seeing first hand what a difference the equipment makes to people.
Maggie Clayton
I initially joined Summit on a short contract. Shortly after starting, I had the opportunity to attend the annual company Hui and met everyone on the Team. It was incredibly inspiring to see how passionate everyone is about what we do, truly embodying Allied's vision. I was fortunate to be invited to join Allied permanently, and of course, I happily accepted!
I absolutely love volunteering and being an active part of the community. For the past 5 years, my Australian Terrier dog Millie and I have been volunteering with St John through their Pet Therapy program. It's such a joy to bring smiles to rest homes, hospitals, and schools. Millie has a special way of brightening the day for the sick, elderly, and kids. Sharing these moments with her truly fills my cup.
Growing up, I watched my dad practice martial arts every day. It wasn't until university that I decided to follow in his footsteps. Achieving my black belt in Aikido in my 20s was a proud moment, and I kept practicing until my daughter was born. When she turned 6, I took her to a BJJ (Brazilian Jiujitsu) kids class. Although she stopped after a few months, I decided to join the adult class and earned my blue belt in 2019. It was a huge mental and physical accomplishment for me. While I don't practice anymore due to injuries, I hope my daughter might be inspired to return to it someday!
Mark Grigor
The team at AML have all been attracted to work here by the goodness of our purpose, empowering people to live independently with dignity.
I resigned from a job that I didn’t love and went on holiday for 3 months in Europe. I believed in myself enough to be confident that I could get a great job when I returned home, and AML believed in me too.
If I could go anywhere in the world, I would be back in Europe in a flash, exploring the south of France, and returning to the Dolomites between Austria and Italy.
Mia Saunders
My role makes the difference for the customers making sure that they get their orders on time.
I am proud of achieving how well I can do outwards goods and my learning abilities.
My favourite movies right now and forever will always be the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World movies
Phil Randle
The much needed practice and playing of golf. He also enjoys following the All Blacks and Liverpool FC. Phil likes to spend time with friends, listening to music, reading a great book or watching a great movie and endures pilates.
The warm welcome given and the patience shown by all the staff while teaching this old dog new tricks.
Sae Strang
Kind, Caring, Empathetic - Allied Medical are committed to supporting every individual with the respect and understanding they deserve.
I like drinking tea — it's a simple moment of calm that reminds me to slow down, breathe, and be present. It’s in these small, mindful pauses that we reconnect with ourselves and are able to show up with kindness, care, and empathy for others.
Japan
Sarah Stow
The Outback - I love being outdoors and at the beach so the thought of seeing someone independently enjoying the outdoors too is exciting.
Moving to NZ from the UK with a young family to give them a better lifestyle.
I've always wanted to go Hawaii - haven't given up on this dream.
Sarita Shrestha
What I appreciate most about working at Allied Medical is the supportive and collaborative team, which fosters a welcoming environment that genuinely feels like a home away from home.
My current objective is to attain permanent residency in New Zealand, which will enable me to establish a secure future for my family and enjoy a high standard of living.
During my leisure time, particularly on weekends, I take pleasure in travelling and discovering new places whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Scott Hourigan
Working with a great team.
Having a cold beer after a long day.
I'm a qualified pyrotechnician.
Shane Wheeler
Sharn Muakiholeva
A standout moment for me was working with a client who had faced major changes in their life and had lost a lot of confidence in their mobility. They were unsure about using new assistive equipment at first, but with the right support and encouragement, they slowly regained their independence. Over time, they started venturing out into the community again — meeting friends, visiting local cafés, attending events, and reconnecting with the things they loved. Seeing their resilience and determination, and knowing I played a small part in helping them rediscover independence, was incredibly inspiring. It’s a moment I’ll never forget and a real reminder of why our work at Allied Medical matters so much.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that progress isn’t always linear — sometimes it’s about patience, creativity, and genuine connection. Working with people from all walks of life has taught me the power of empathy and how listening deeply can often make the biggest impact.
I’m a bit of an animal lover and adventure seeker! My weekends usually involve a mix of riding my Triumph around NZ, getting out on the jet skis, or hanging with friends and family on the e-scooters. When I’m home, I’ve got plenty of company — my dog, three black cats, chickens, buggies, canaries, and finches. It’s a bit of a zoo, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Shelley Lima
As part of the marketing team, I help connect people with the products, services, and information they need. Whether it’s improving our website experience or working closely with the Livewell team to promote our retail store, my role is about making it easier for customers to discover the right solutions for their health, mobility, and independence. Knowing that this work helps people access products that can make a real difference in their daily lives is especially rewarding.
I have two! I love starting my day with a coffee at the kitchen bench with my partner, and ending it with an evening walk after dinner with the dogs and kids.
I love beginning my weekends by exploring a local market with a coffee in hand. On a sunny day, I’ll head out for a hike and soak up some fresh air at the beach, then round things off by enjoying dinner at a favourite local restaurant.
Sonia Hanekom
As Purchasing Coordinator, I ensure the right products are sourced and delivered on time, helping our customers provide reliable care with confidence to our end users.
I'm a year away from completing my degree in Business Psychology, where I have combined my passion for people-focused insights with smart business solutions.
Weekends are for speed: from boat racing to F1, I’m all in, especially when I can attend in person - I am yet to miss a Sail GP in NZ.
Tania Barthorpe
The people! We have such an incredible team of people who are genuinely passionate about helping our customers - and each other. It's lovely to come into work and know you are surrounded by genuinely kind, committed and hard working people all focused on a common goal.
Tackling the Abel Tasman Coast Track with my family. We’ve only just started training with an overnight hike, and the plan is to build up over the next year or so until we can handle the full four nights. My sons are on a mission to see all the NZ native birds, so we’re hoping to tick a bunch off their list along the way.
Saskatoon in Canada to visit my brother and his family. My family and I are hoping to get there at some point and are continually planning what places to visit across the country once we do. Banff National Park is top of the list.
Tim Shafe
Being able to help people regain their independence after a life-changing event.
Finally mastering cheese scones.
Egypt
Tim Hackett
As an Outbound Tech my role is to ensure the end user gets the products they need set up the way they need them. I get to work closely with both the end user and the medical professionals to make sure this happens as effectively and in as timely a fashion as possible, making suggestions from a technical point of view and using my knowledge of the physical products to help where I can.
Listening to the concerns and lived experiences of the clients, and then working together with the OT’s and care staff is a never ending learning experience.
I had an automotive career that spanned almost two decades. The work was challenging, but after a time it felt a bit empty. I didn’t feel as if I was doing enough and wanted to do something that helped more, taking care of something that was important to people.
So one day I decided that I’d had enough, I made the call, and here I am!
Easy, Lasagne!
Hot, cold, breakfast, dinner. Doesn’t matter – it’s always good!
Wayne Turner
Trusted. Empowering. Exceptional
Returning from Australia to work with Allied Medical was a major leap of faith — but it’s been one of the most rewarding decisions of my career. The opportunity to lead in an organisation that makes a tangible difference every day has been incredibly gratifying.
Italy — for the unbeatable combination of great food, even better wine & a culture that celebrates family & connection. A few days in Tuscany with a cricket game playing on the radio in the background sounds perfect to me.
Yumi Kubota
I am especially excited about our mobility products. They give people more freedom and independence, and some of them have such stylish designs! It feels good to know that my work helps make that possible.
I’m working on building my skills in supply chain management. I’d love to keep growing in this area so I can contribute even more to the team.
I’d love to visit Portugal someday. It’s so far from both of my homes, New Zealand and Japan. I’ve always wanted to experience its beautiful streets, delicious food, and rich culture.