About Us

Muscle People

Your Christchurch Physio: Muscle People Physiotherapy was formed in 1998 with a vision of providing professional and personal physiotherapy care.

Muscle People Physiotherapy clinics hold current certification status and are audited regularly to the appropriate New Zealand standard.

While certification is no longer mandatory for Physiotherapy practices, we have chosen to meet this high standard to show our clients they can have confidence that we have effective clinical and management systems in place. It also demonstrates our commitment to quality of care, and that we have structured our services to meet the needs of the people who use them.

We take pride in offering an excellent physiotherapy service, which includes:

Spending time to get to know our clients (not production-line physio)
Highly qualified staff – who undergo regular upskilling working as part of a multidisciplinary team, alongside other medical allied health and fitness team members.
Looking beyond your specific injury or disease process to offer guidance with injury prevention and goal setting
Working with businesses to provide assessments and ongoing care for their staff

Our Philosophy

Our clinics boast biomechanical assessment programmes based on current, and well-researched evidence with regards to back pain and sports specific biomechanical rehabilitation. This is a first for NZ and an exciting part of the cutting edge services we offer as a business. Muscle People are aligned with several international organisations to ensure we keep up to date with what the best are doing around the world. This collaborative approach with our colleagues in other parts of the world is crucial to our success as a team. We also

believe being part of the YMCA and Wigram Health further enhances our services to Canterbury.

Pain to Performance

We pride ourselves on our pain to performance approach to client care where we take the time to understand the root cause of your pain and create a personalised plan to help you move better, feel stronger and get back to what you love. Our model is relieving symptoms, rebuilding your strength and exceeding your goals.

Our Team

Laurie Moore

Clinic Director

Physiotherapist

With over 30 years of experience, I remain deeply passionate about physiotherapy and the positive impact it has on people’s lives. From starting solo to now leading a team of 20 across three Christchurch clinics, I find great satisfaction in mentoring staff and helping clients - especially those with complex conditions like brain injuries, Parkinson’s, and chronic pain. At Muscle People Physio, we go beyond expectations by offering cutting-edge, research-based treatments aligned with international standards, always aiming to take clients from pain to performance.

Clare Brandrick

Clinical Lead - City

Physiotherapist

Driven by a fascination with human movement, I began my physiotherapy career in the UK, leading a rheumatology unit and developing a rehab gym before settling in New Zealand. Since 1998, I’ve been part of Muscle People Physio, where I serve as 2IC and clinical lead, guiding our physio team and managing our Early Intervention Programme for local businesses. I specialise in complex and chronic conditions - such as migraines, vestibular issues, and rheumatology - helping clients improve their quality of life by empowering them to take control of their health.

Jaclyn Parker

Clinical Lead - Wigram

Physiotherapist

Sport has always been a big part of my life - I’ve represented New Zealand in handball as team captain and continue to play basketball and run long distances. My own experience as an athlete fuels my passion for physiotherapy, especially helping others return to the activities they love. After starting at Muscle People Physio as a new grad, I worked in the UK, then returned in 2016 to lead our Wigram Skies clinic. There, I treat a wide range of clients and work alongside a skilled multi-disciplinary team, supported by ongoing professional development to ensure we deliver top-level care.

Sam Frankham

Clinical Lead - Bishopdale

Physiotherapist

With a background in sports and exercise rehabilitation, I’ve worked with elite athletes across NZ Weightlifting, CrossFit, Volleyball, the Breakers, and the Mystics, as well as the general public. I focus on identifying the root cause of pain and use a range of manual therapy techniques alongside personalised exercise programs. I enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life and empowering them with movement skills and pain management strategies that support long-term health and wellbeing.

Naomi Douglas

Physiotherapist

Since joining Muscle People Physio in 2012, I’ve loved working with a diverse range of clients and being part of a dynamic, supportive team that values ongoing professional development. My background in physiology and physiotherapy stems from a fascination with how the human body moves, but it’s working with people that truly drives me. I’m passionate about helping clients-from athletes to parents-reach their rehab and performance goals, feel better than before their injury, and prevent future issues through tailored, effective treatment.

Stephanie Tucker

Physiotherapist

Steph’s passion for physiotherapy began after a childhood injury highlighted its role in injury prevention and recovery. An active athlete herself - from basketball to mountain hikes - she brings that same energy to her clients. Recently motivated by motherhood, she is upskilling in Pelvic Health, with a focus on pre and post natal care. With a background that includes work in New Zealand and six years in Kuwait, Steph treats a wide range of clients using techniques like dry needling and joint mobilisation, aiming to reduce pain, correct movement patterns and empower clients with tools to prevent future injury.

Shannon Eames

Physiotherapist

Originally from South Africa, I earned my physiotherapy degree in 2004 and gained extensive experience in both South Africa and the UK, particularly in musculoskeletal care and sports injuries. After time away from the profession to raise my family and settle in New Zealand, I’m excited to return to physiotherapy and support clients through their recovery. With a strong personal background in endurance sports - including marathons and an Ironman 70.3 - and firsthand experience with injury and rehabilitation, I bring empathy, insight and a drive to help others overcome setbacks and return to doing what they love.

Sam Petherick

Physiotherapist

Sam graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Otago, inspired by her own journey through injury and recovery. Her personal experiences fuel a strong passion for helping others regain their health and mobility. Alongside her love for physiotherapy, Sam is a keen cricketer and is especially passionate about sports and exercise rehabilitation. She enjoys working with people from all walks of life and finds great fulfilment in helping clients reach their rehab goals and return to the activities they enjoy.

Marina Ferguson

Physiotherapist

Marina, a University of Otago physiotherapy graduate, developed her interest in the body through years of competitive sport and personal experience with injuries. Growing up on a farm and loving the outdoors, she appreciates the physical demands of hard work and tailors treatments to individual needs. Passionate about helping people of all ages, Marina focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of problems to reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence. In her free time, she enjoys socialising, running, and playing netball at a high level, understanding the balance and benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Nina Gibbs

Physiotherapist

Nina graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy and developed a passion for helping people of all ages rehab their injuries. She appreciates that being active means different things to different people and is committed to working with clients to achieve their personal goals and return to the activities they enjoy.

Mehr Shah

Physiotherapist

Mehr joins Muscle People as an experienced Physiotherapist and Rehabilitation Manager, skilled in treating musculoskeletal and sports injuries, post-surgery rehab, postural analysis, and dry needling. She works with clients of all ages and abilities, focusing on empowering them to regain mobility and independence while celebrating their progress. Outside of work, Mehr loves nature and is excited to explore New Zealand. We’re excited to have her on the team.

Hayley Meads

Physiotherapist

Hayley graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, building on her background in personal training and physiology. She specializes in sports and exercise rehabilitation, helping athletes from various sports reach their rehab and performance goals. Her current interests include sports and musculoskeletal injuries, knee and ankle care, dry needling, kinesio taping, and post-operative rehabilitation. Hayley enjoys supporting individuals of all ages and abilities through their recovery journeys.

George Matheson

Physiotherapist

George, a University of Otago physiotherapy graduate and former Physiotherapy Student Association President, is passionate about leadership and helping clients take charge of their rehab journey. A Christchurch native and active rugby player, he focuses on sports and musculoskeletal injuries, return-to-work programs, and strength and conditioning. George enjoys working with diverse clients and finds fulfillment in supporting their rehabilitation progress.

Muhammad Kashif

Physiotherapist

Kashif, an enthusiastic cricket and football player, understands the challenges of being sidelined by injury, which sparked his passion for sports rehabilitation. He is experienced in treating a variety of sports, musculoskeletal injuries, and post-operative rehab. Kashif is dedicated to helping people regain mobility, independence, and strength to reach their goals.

Logan Foster

Physiotherapist

Growing up active in sports like football and swimming, frequent injuries sparked my interest in physiotherapy and the human body. This career perfectly combines my passion for health and fitness with helping people achieve their goals. What I love most is connecting with clients, learning about their passions, and supporting them to reach their full potential. Outside work, I enjoy family, friends, the gym, and social sports. Whether it’s everyday tasks or high-level sport, I take pride in contributing to your rehab and performance journey.

Jessica Windhorst

Physiotherapist

Growing up involved in sports like dance, swimming, and karate - where I represented New Zealand and coached others - fueled my passion for teamwork and helping people reach their potential. This, combined with my love for anatomy and physiology, led me to physiotherapy. At Otago University, I enjoyed learning how to support physical and mental recovery after injury. I’m passionate about working with clients to achieve their goals and value being part of Muscle People, where I can keep up with evidence-based practice. Outside work, I stay active with gym workouts, zumba, and enjoy time outdoors with friends and family.

Munashe Saruchera

Physiotherapist

Growing up passionate about sports and fascinated by the human body, I found physiotherapy the perfect way to combine health and fitness with helping people reach their goals. I love connecting with clients, learning their passions, and supporting them to maximise their potential. Outside work, I enjoy time with family and friends, gym sessions, and social sports, taking pride in aiding clients from everyday activities to high-level sports in their rehab journey.

Cassie Trompetter

Physiotherapist

Cassie, an Otago physiotherapy graduate, is passionate about helping people from all backgrounds, especially with sports injuries and rehab. With experience as a sideline medic for rugby, she enjoys gym, hiking, and running in her free time. Having competed in multiple sports herself, she understands injuries firsthand and emphasizes injury prevention and maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle while working closely with clients to build confidence and reach their goals.

Maddie Stead

Physiotherapist

Maddie Stead, a Christchurch native and University of Otago physiotherapy graduate, brings her passion for health and fitness back home. Active in running, gym, and sports, she understands the challenges of injury and discomfort. Known for her kind, empathetic approach, Maddie listens closely to clients to provide personalised care that helps them recover, return to activities, and improve their quality of life. Her strong connection to the Christchurch community motivates her to support healthier, more active living.

Divnesh Dayal

Physiotherapist

Divnesh (Div), a University of Otago physiotherapy graduate from Fiji, was drawn to the field through his passion for sports, focusing on musculoskeletal and sports injuries. He enjoys helping athletes return to peak performance but also supports people of all backgrounds with injuries, chronic conditions, or movement goals. Div values strong client relationships, aiming to empower recovery and confidence. Outside work, he stays active through football and gym, using his understanding of the body to guide clients of all ages and fitness levels toward their goals.

Zhen Nie

Physiotherapist

Zhen is a New Zealand-trained physiotherapist, holding a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Otago. She brings a unique background to her clinical practice. Prior to moving to New Zealand, she worked as a Human Resources manager in China. This experience has shaped her strong interest in helping people perform at their best — both physically and mentally.

Fluent in Mandarin and conversational in Cantonese, Zhen is well-placed to support clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds, helping ensure they feel comfortable, understood, and empowered throughout their care.

Zhen is passionate about supporting her clients through every stage of their rehabilitation, whether they are recovering from injury, surgery, or managing chronic conditions. She brings warmth, empathy, and excellent listening skills to her practice, taking the time to truly understand each individual’s goals and challenges.

Outside the clinic, Zhen enjoys hiking in nature and practicing Yoga and Tai Chi, reflecting her belief in the importance of balance between physical and mental wellbeing.

With a gentle and compassionate approach, Zhen is committed to helping her clients regain confidence in their bodies and improve their quality of life.

Rabia Siddiq

Physiotherapist

I’ve been practicing physiotherapy for over seven years, with a strong focus on musculoskeletal and sports injuries. My journey has taken me from busy clinics to international stadiums, working with elite athletes including the Pakistan National Women Cricket Team. I’ve provided physiotherapy support at major global events like the Cricket World Cup, where high performance and rapid recovery are critical.

My passion for sport and movement runs deep—I understand firsthand how frustrating it can be to sit on the sidelines due to injury. That’s why I’m committed to helping every client, whether you're a weekend warrior or a professional athlete, achieve your goals and get back to doing what you love.

Since moving to Christchurch, I’ve been excited to bring my international experience into a local setting, where I continue to focus on evidence-based, patient-centered care. I believe in working collaboratively to empower people in their rehab journey—because everyone deserves to feel strong, capable, and supported

Maddie Stead, a Christchurch native and University of Otago physiotherapy graduate, brings her passion for health and fitness back home. Active in running, gym, and sports, she understands the challenges of injury and discomfort. Known for her kind, empathetic approach, Maddie listens closely to clients to provide personalised care that helps them recover, return to activities, and improve their quality of life. Her strong connection to the Christchurch community motivates her to support healthier, more active living.

Divnesh (Div), a University of Otago physiotherapy graduate from Fiji, was drawn to the field through his passion for sports, focusing on musculoskeletal and sports injuries. He enjoys helping athletes return to peak performance but also supports people of all backgrounds with injuries, chronic conditions, or movement goals. Div values strong client relationships, aiming to empower recovery and confidence. Outside work, he stays active through football and gym, using his understanding of the body to guide clients of all ages and fitness levels toward their goals.