
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
Watching my 2 boys, 19 and 17, grow into awesome young men. I love sports, drawing, bourbon, camping, and making people smile and feel good about themselves.
Being here for almost 19 years, there are so many, but I love any team building (Tough guy and gal challenge comes to mind), and anytime I can make a difference in someone's life.
Alex Sim
the outdoors, 4 wheel driving and swims at the local beaches. I also really enjoy camping and going on adventures to cool places all around New Zealand and the world!
On my first day I noticed how warm and welcoming everyone was, I also love how I feel apart of the team and how supported I feel. I also love what we do here at Allied, in terms of helping out people with disabilities and enabling them to become more independent and free.
Andi Liu
Allied Medical is within 5 km from both where I live, and where I coach fencing at Rangitoto College and a community centre. I really appreciate how the team at AML can accommodate me starting and leaving slightly earlier on the days I coach. Having this availability to contribute back to my community with my particular skills and qualifications is something very meaningful for me. By the way, assistance in establishing wheelchair fencing as a formal sports programme here in Auckland could be an idea.
I very much enjoy sharing propagating material, knowledge, and produce, at the local NZ Tree Crops Association meetings. NZTCA is a charity founded exactly 50 years ago in Nelson. People are very generous with their knowledge and sharing what they grow, and giving back to the association e.g. the Harricado by Harry Pearson. In addition to just growing things, I have the materials for breeding peaches with softshell almond kernels, everbearing fragrant seedless grapes, and seedling selections of lychee and jackfruit seeds I imported which have survived winter outdoors - I hope to someday have the space to grow these out in the future and perhaps make available good selections through the NZTCA like the Harricado was.
I occasionally got overuse injuries from fencing when I was preparing for international competitions. Starting from July last year I picked up Ceroc / Modern Jive dance and gradually replaced my own fencing training sessions with Ceroc instead. My fencing results stayed fine and I got healthier. Now I spend more time learning Ceroc than I do fencing training. My favourite Ceroc event would probably be Switch. It has some similarity to fencing in that you have to feel for opportunities to take the initiative and react to the opponent trying to take the initiative. Being a non-choreographed dance, and with the music being chosen at random, it really keeps you on your feet. Both fencing and Ceroc have people actively practicing well part retirement age (and I believe the winner of the 2024 NZ fencing championships mens epee event was 65). Ceroc is a bit more accessible in general, but fencing you can meaningfully participate in in a wheelchair as an able-bodied person and fence on quite even footing with a wheelchair fencer. I look forward to continuing with both of these as long as I can.
Annette Jamison
Walking my dog on the beach. Sunrise is the best time of day.
Coming back after a 10 year break and finding that Allied is STILL the best place to work. I love that our customers are used to receiving the best service from us, but we still manage to surprise them occasionally with more than they expected!
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.
Blake Bradshaw
My favourite thing about working at Allied Medical is being surrounded by genuine, down to earth people who truly care about the customers they are helping. Everyone goes out of their way to make a difference, and that kind of attitude really stands out. It makes me proud to be part of a team where helping others is not just part of the job but part of who we are.
Yes, in 2020 I took a leap of faith by moving to the United States on a full rowing scholarship to the University of Washington. The world had slowed down during the pandemic, and instead of letting that hold me back, I decided to embrace the opportunity. It completely changed my life as I earned my degree, won two national championship titles, made lifelong friends, and experienced tremendous personal growth.
I would go back to Rome, Italy. After competing at the 2022 Under 23 World Rowing Championships, I stayed there with one of my best friends from university, and the food was unforgettable. As a rower, I am always hungry, so let’s just say Rome and I got along very well.
Bruce Francis
Family, chasing his daughter around all her dance and netball activities (a long waterproof coat is essential). Bruce also enjoys snowboarding and playing computer games online. Recently he has started teaching himself to sketch and draw with pencils as a way to relax.
Feeling like he is part of the team even though he has been here a short while.
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.
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
Helping people be more independent to get them out and about. After work, Craig spends time with his kids, follows rugby and lots of other sports. He also really enjoys cooking up a low and slow BBQ Texas style.
Being welcomed by the Allied Medical team, who make you feel like you are part of the team straight away.
Daniel De Ramos
Daniel loves an adventure! Whether it be flying out and travelling to a new country or exploring new worlds in video games, he likes to enjoy life visually and take new sights in. In his spare time Dan enjoys playing badminton, gaming, and spending time with friends and family (nearby AND in far away places).
Being welcomed so warmly into a new team and knowing that the work we do is always helping someone else live their life to the fullest.
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
Spending time with friends and family, taking long naps, playing video games, going to the gym and riding through forests or at the skatepark.
When Hugh started, he noticed that everyone is very welcoming and nice. Allied Medical feels like one big team that are happy to help or support whenever you need.
Jessica Heslin
Spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is makeup, fashion and watching cooking shows. Her favorite is Masterchef.
Being able to attend the ATSNZ Disability Expo and see our products in action amongst others in our industry. What we do here is so important to make every moment count. In my role, I make sure we have the right product readily available for customers so that when they place their order stock is available.
Jessica Bramwell
I love being outdoors, whether it be a football game on the Sunday, riding around on my mountain bike or going out for a run or hike. However I also enjoy a cosy evening by the fire with the cats and I never go anywhere without a book on hand.
Favourite Allied medical moment has been meeting everyone that works here. Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming. But also getting to help build my first powerchair has definitely felt rewarding.
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.
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 closely with therapists and clients to offer the most appropriate solutions, so that the client can be independent and active. Kelly enjoys being in the great outdoors - wandering up mountains, being on the water and is always planning the next adventure. She loves trying any new restaurants, which is good as at times her cooking leaves a lot to be desired!
Any team event - we have such a great bunch of people at Allied, there is never a dull moment! Although the Tough Guy and Girl Challenge has to rate up there, so much mud and tears of laughter all the way!
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
I absolutely love baking and I love my "wilderness" garden. One of my favourite things to bake combines the two, it's an Aromatic Shortbread using whatever happens to be in abundance at the time - a recent batch included rosemary, kawakawa and red clover.
Witnessing the joy of both the client and her whole family, as a tetraplegic client mastered the Head Array controls of her Edge 3. There were tears of joy from everyone, except the client herself who was absolutely beaming from ear to ear!
Kylie Burrowes
I've really enjoyed getting to meet some of our older clients who live in retirement villages, because they always have great stories to tell. One woman was telling me about her singing career and the honour she had of opening for Roy Orbison in England!
In the summer, I love to end the day at the beach. I'll pack my swimsuit in the morning and look forward to an evening swim all day. It's a great way to "clear the cobwebs" as a friend told me.
I have a twin sister! We're originally from the Chicago area, and we both ending up living in New Zealand :)
Louis Heath
I enjoy art, animations and graphic design. A huge NRL NZ Warriors supporter and follower of NBA basketball. Loves filming and making videos of my two young children set to soundtracks of our favourite songs.
Being supported and trusted by a great team who are willing to help do whatever it takes to supply people in need with products that improve their quality of life.
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
loves volunteering and being an active part of the community. For the past 4 years, with my Australian Terrier dog Millie, have been volunteering with St John, bringing joy to rest homes, hospitals, libraries, and schools. I also love spending quality time with my family, travelling, baking, and practicing yoga.
I initially joined Summit on a short contract. Shortly after starting, I had the opportunity to attend the annual company Hui and meet 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!
Mark Grigor
Seeing how readily everybody works together at AML to help people to get on with their lives. Away from work, there's always something around the house and garden to keep Mark busy. He loves to travel, and catch up with friends over wine and food.
Discovering just how good a workplace feels when its purpose is to enable people to live independently with dignity.
Melissa Bernabe
As a Customer Care Coordinator and Sales Support, we always endeavor to ensure a smooth end to end fulfillment of the Sales and Customer Service Process of the business. By doing this, we are able to serve our customers in the most cost- efficient, consistent manner, and hopefully, we impact their lives positively:)
My husband and I start and end the day with a prayer of thanks for the blessings given and are yet to come.
Doing the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage remains to be in our bucket list as a couple, whether we begin from France, Portugal, or Spain side- won't matter just as long as we are able to do and finish it.
Mia Saunders
cats, cozy blankets, makeup, and rainy days while watching movies with popcorn.
I like knowing I’m helping people out, I’m excited for my future here at allied medical.
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
Spending time with friends and family. She enjoys gardening, gamingand walking dogs.
Being part of a great team and working for a company that truly makes a difference.
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.
Scott Hourigan
Working in a great team to bring customers the best solutions and make a difference to their lives. Outside of work you’ll find Scott out hunting, fishing or skiing the Queenstown slopes.
Whenever Tim brings his dog Buckles to work, who gets to hang out in the Tech area.
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 ensure our website is clear, easy to use, and full of the information people need about our products. It’s often the first place customers connect with Allied Medical, so making it welcoming and well-presented helps create a great first impression while supporting them to find the right solutions.
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
Working to ensure our website is user friendly, informative and an enjoyable experience along with creating meaningful content for our customers and product users. Tania enjoys cycling with her family, reading and yoga.
Being part of a team that work together to provide exceptional service and care for their customers and make a difference in people's lives every day.
Tim Shafe
Using the skills he has gained in the industry to help people at a personal level. Tim's passion for all things mechanical see him spending his own time tinkering with his classic cars. Tim also shares his property with his dog, cockatiel, and a lovebird.
Having worked on his own for quite some time before joining Allied Medical, he enjoys being part of a team again.
Tim Hackett
Obscure music, archaic prose, and very old movies.
Joining my church Worship team, allowing me to combine my love of music and my faith in God together.
Being a family man, and everything that it brings. Which seems to include renovations. So many renovations…
Having a blast meeting the crew. You guys are great!
I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to get out there again and help make a difference to the lives of our clients. Here’s to meeting and learning from many more people dedicated to helping others.
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.