Meet the team

Team Dental’s story began in 1997 when I opened a 7- day practice in Tauranga.

I was passionate about providing dental services that were easily accessed and affordable to everyone.

With good down to earth kiwi ingenuity, we found we could build up dental practices in an affordable manner and pass these savings onto our customers.

Since then, with my fabulous team, we have 7 practices throughout NZ. Our company is well structured, and our profits stay within NZ.

We offer career paths within our company and additionally the opportunity to have equity in our dental practices.

Nowadays I still enjoy practising dentistry to provide cover at our Tauranga branches leaving plenty of time to concentrate on growing the brand.

Outside of work I lead an active life, and enjoy running, swimming, surfing, fishing and hunting with my family.

I started working as a dental assistant as a teenager and have loved all aspects of dentistry.

We relocated from the Bay of Plenty to Christchurch after the 2012 earthquakes and love living in a bigger city especially with bringing up two very energetic daughters! My interests are Music, being outdoors and spending time with my dear friends and family. I have a huge interest in natural health and beauty and enjoy making natural soy candles as a side hobby.

Emma is a 2008 University of Otago graduate with an interest of all aspects of dentistry.

As a former dental phobic, she understands that going to the dentist can be a bit nerve racking and aims to provide gentle patient paced care. In her spare time she enjoys watching old movie musicals and cooking for friends and family.

After graduating from Bombay University in 1986.

I spent 3 years working for the Bhutanese government providing dental services in remote areas of the Himalayas. I completed my New Zealand DREX in 1998. I have been based in the Bay of Plenty since 2000, attracted here by the excellent diving and fishing opportunities.

I graduated from University of Otago in 2005.

Since graduation I have since been practising general dentistry. I was in Oamaru and Waimate for 3 years prior to moving to Christchurch.I always strive to do the best for my patients. During my spare time I love togo for a run or spend time with my family.

Hi, I am Kerry and I have a background in both the dental industry and administration.

After living and working in various parts of the North Island I am enjoying being back in Whangarei.
Outside of work I love travelling and visiting family and friends overseas.

I have worked in the dental industry for all of my working life.

I originally trained as a school dental nurse. I have worked in this practice for a number of years, becoming Practice Manager for Team Dental Whangarei in 2006. Away from work I really love spending time with my family, I am an avid reader and enjoy gardening.

Originally I am from Christchurch (born & bred). I initially completed a Science Degree at Auckland University.

Following this I did two years as a Research Scientist with the National Heart Foundation and completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Pharmacology at Auckland Medical school. I graduated from Otago Dental School and spent my first year as a House Surgeon at the Auckland Hospital service and subsequently four years in Accident and Emergency Dentistry -so I know how to get people out of pain.
I have 19 years of General Dentistry experience and maintained my continuing education courses which have kept me up to date with the advances in Dentistry. These courses confirmed what was taught in Otago in that ideal dentistry is based on accurate exam and x-rays to determine proper treatment needs to minimise repetitive dentistry. To this end I see a lot of baby boomers with heavily restored wall to wall amalgams. I like to transform these teeth from black blobs to restorations that look like teeth.
Also I have a special interest in Endodontics (root fillings) and Crown and Bridgework.

Jude has been Practice Manager at Team Dental Riccarton since 1999.

Jude is the Practice Manager for team dental Riccarton and Harewood. She started in a management role at team dental Riccarton in 1999 and prior to this she had worked as a dental assistant and office manager at other Christchurch practices. In her spare time she loves to spend time with her grandchildren and adult family. She also enjoys photography and craft work.

Kevin Chew graduated from the University of Otago in 1999.

He has worked for Team Dental since 2001 where the staff are friendly helpful and efficient he enjoys all aspects of general dentistry.

I came to New Zealand 20 years ago from South Korea, and graduated from Otago in 2001.

I have worked at private dental practices in Christchurch for 6 years and in Palmerston North for 4 years. It is great being part of the Team at Team Dental Tauranga I look forward to taking care of your oral health. Outside of work, I enjoy walking, playing music and spending time with my family.

Dr Mike Simon's philosophy is to make an unpleasant job as comfortable and pain free as possible.

With over 30 years experience as a general dentist Dr Mike is looking forward to working with the friendly people of Papamoa. Dr Mike Simon graduated from Otago University in 1981, he spent 15 years running a very busy dental practice in Lower Hutt offering general dental services with a special interest in safe mercury filling removal. In 2007 he joined Lumino, and in 2013 he and his wife Katy relocated to sunny Papamoa. Dr Mike is a keen sailor and skier, he and Katy have 4 adult children and a griffin dog called Enzo. Dr Mike strives to help his patients maintain a healthy, functional and strong mouth to ensure better general health. Dr Mike offers patients who request it a safe amalgam removal programme. If you are interested in amalgam removal you may like to look at his website www.holistic.co.nz.

Hi, I'm Shelley. I have worked part time for Brett Marshall for about 13 years.

I assist Sarah where I can with the management of the practice and help the dentists and assistants when needed. The Tauranga city practice is always busy and I thoroughly enjoy my interactions with our clients and I am lucky enough, to not only enjoy my job, but spend my days with friends.
I enjoy swimming, walking and the occasional tramp, but most of my spare time is spent in my garden and with my wonderful family.

I graduated from AUT (in 2012), with a Bachelor of Oral Health: a duel degree in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy. My experience has been in the private sector as a Orthodontic Auxiliary for 2 years and as Dental Hygienist in Auckland.

Tauranga is quickly feeling like home to me, I love the beach, the sun and its warm people.
I enjoy a blend of creative and outdoor activities, I love drawing and painting, swimming, yoga and plenty of beach walks.
I have recently switched from spreading my time between the three Bay of Plenty Team Dental branches to only working at Greerton. I am available for appointments at Team Dental Greerton from Monday to Friday.
I look forward to meeting you getting to know you, and and playing a part in your oral health!

Hi I'm Kelly and I graduated from the University of Otago. I have worked in private practices in both Auckland and Christchurch before joining Team Dental Riccarton.

I enjoy all aspects of general dentistry and aim to provide a warm and friendly service to all my patients.

I am one of the newest members of the team and am really enjoying all the new skills I am learning relating to the wide range of information about the services we provide.

My role includes telephone enquiries, making appointments and carrying out a variety of different administrative duties.

I graduated from Otago university in 1985 and have been in private practise since then.

I undertake all aspects of general dentistry and particularly like to treat families as I enjoy patients of all ages. I love to help people improve their smiles, and hopefully make them comfortable with dentistry at the same time.
Due to my husband’s work I have worked in several areas of New Zealand, primarily Tauranga, Nelson and Wellington. I have two adult children and a dog Pepper.

Hi I am Neil, I have been working as a Dentist since 1983. I have a passion for providing high quality dental services and assisting people by providing healthy teeth for life.

With over 30 years of experience in the dental industry, I have attended many post graduate courses including Laser Dentistry, Cerec 3D, Endodontics, and preventative dentistry with a strong focus on minimal intervention.

When I'm not working, I like to spend time with my wife and two children and love fishing, surfing, diving and skiing.

Hi. I am Pamela I have extensive experience as a Dental Therapist

I am qualified in Dental Therapy (1975), Grad Dip Bus (University of Auckland) and Dental Hygiene Practice (2007). I have previously had experience as a Dental Therapist with the Ministry of Health and as a Dental Therapist/Hygienist and Service Manager for several charitable trusts providing Oral Health Services to adolescents, pregnant mothers and mothers of young children.

I have lived in Northland for over twenty years and have three adult children. I enjoy keeping fit and spending plenty of time outdoors.

I have been working as a Dental Assistant since 1990 and have since learnt all aspects of dentistry

My primary role is chair side working alongside Neil and also helping with general tasks to ensure that every dental appointment you make is comfortable and stress-free.

I love meeting new people and have a great sense of fun.

I enjoy practicing all aspects of general dentistry, and am passionate about providing patient centred, caring dentistry for the community I live in.

I graduated with first class honours from the University of Otago, where I was also involved in researching forensic modelling of head injuries. Prior to my time at Team Dental, I worked as a Dental House Surgeon at Christchurch Hospital. In my spare time I am a violinist in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.

I enjoy all aspects of dentistry, but put a particular emphasis on ensuring excellent communication with my patients.

I graduated from Otago University with a BDS in 2011. I spent the next 3 and a half years in a private practice in my home town of Blenheim. I then spent some time overseas, based in the UK.

After 2 years in London I have moved back to New Zealand and have chosen Christchurch as my base.

Tim graduated from Otago School of Dentistry and has extensive experience

Formerly on the staff of Otago Dental School and has held a position with the government dental service. He has a commitment to ongoing professional education and offers a wide range of treatments.
Tim has a keen interest in lifestyle medicine and was a CHIP (complete health improvement program) facilitator in Kaikohe.
He has enjoyed living in the rural Bay of Islands with wife Sandra, and now enjoys living in Whangarei. His loves include horse riding and gardening

I enjoy doing general dentistry, focusing on pain relief and offering gentle treatment for both adults and children

I enjoy promoting oral health and helping patients to achieve it.

I grew up in Malaysia and came to New Zealand to study at the University of Otago. Since graduating, I worked for a few months in Auckland before moving up to the winterless North. Growing up in a multiethnic and multicultural country, I can communicate in English, Malay and Mandarin.

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy travelling and playing musical instruments such as the guitar and the keyboard.’

I enjoy meeting and chatting with our patients.

I have worked in the dental industry since I was a young lass of 17 (only feels like yesterday!). My aim is to ensure that everyone who walks through our door feels welcome and I try and make their visit to the dentist as stress free and relaxed as possible.

I have only recently moved to Tauranga from Auckland with my family and am really enjoying exploring the beautiful Bay of Plenty.

I was born in Wales, dentistry is in the family, I have two older brothers who are both Dentists.

I graduated in Wales in 1986 and have been very fortunate to have been able to work in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

My dental experience has mostly been in general dentistry. I enjoy crown and bridge work and have a special interest in oral surgery. I’m passionate about providing caring down to earth treatments. I understand that having dental treatment can be a challenging experience for many and I like to ensure my patients feel relaxed, informed and cared for.

Hello , I am Jass , I have worked in the dental industry for over 10 years now.

I’m pleased to be part of an organisation that provides such a great service in the Bay of Plenty. I’m really enjoying the challenge of leading the Team at 2nd Ave. When I am not working I enjoy staying active playing cricket or working out in the gym.

Gordon graduated from the University of Pretoria in 2012 and immigrated to New Zealand in 2016.

He enjoys open, personal and honest relationships with his clients, and provides patient-centred dental treatment. He understands dental appointments are notorious for being unpleasant experiences and aims to change that.

Gordon provides a full scope of dental practice from restorative fillings through to prosthetics.

In his spare time Gordon enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and savouring the immense beauty of New Zealand.

I came to New Zealand in 2014, after living and working in UK for 4 years.

I have completed my MBA from Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK and I am delighted to apply my business knowledge to the current role as a Practice Manager.

I hope to create a positive impact on others’ lives and love meeting and interacting with my team and new patients. I believe in strong work ethics and I am always motivated to stay positive and work hard to achieve the best results.

In my free time I enjoy playing and watching football, listening to music and trying my hand at photography.

Nadeem graduated from the University of Otago with Distinction in 2011.

He is proficient in all aspects of general dentistry and has a caring and conservative approach which helps put you at ease. Having worked at Dunedin Hospital, he has extensive knowledge of medical, surgical and emergency dentistry, including dental trauma. With a keen eye to detail he enjoys being of service to his patients and helping them smile again.

Hi I’m Ange and I graduated from AUT with a dual degree as an Oral Health Therapist in 2010.

Prior to this I was a dental assistant for 6yrs in Wellington. I enjoy the lifestyle Papamoa provides. Beach life and a slower pace to life is suiting me well.
Long walks on the beach with our dog Bowie, biking and creating cuisine with fresh local fruit and veges are my favourite ways to spend my leisure time.
I am a great believer in preventative healthcare and I am invested in my patients having positive health outcomes.
I look forward to meeting you, and for us to work together to improve your quality of life.

Hi, Im Thata Koonne. I achieved a Bachelor of Science at the University of Botswana before moving to Dunedin, New Zealand to study Dentistry at the University of Otago.

As an anxious patient myself I try to make patients’ dental experiences a little bit more bearable by placing emphasis on painless, comfortable, affordable and patient-centred dentistry. I enjoy educating patients and helping them make informed decisions about their oral health and dental treatments. I like to keep fit. I enjoy music, literature, spending time with loved ones and attending church.

Born and bred in Christchurch I have been working in the dental industry since 2004. I have had 15 years experience as a Dental Assistant and more recently as a Manager.

I am passionate about dentistry and had the opportunity when travelling around Australia in my 20’s to work for numerous dentists and dental specialist. Now settled back in my home town of Christchurch I am delighted to have the opportunity to manage the new Team Dental Bealey branch. I have a wonderful husband and son and together with our dog you will find us outdoors walking, enjoying the wonderful food and wine this region has to offer, and catching up with friends and family.

I was born in Botswana, I studied dentistry in the US and have now been practising dentistry for 20 years.

I moved to New Zealand in 2006 after working in Botswana for 8 years followed by a short time practicing in Australia. I enjoy and practice all areas of dentistry and I'm passionate about saving teeth. I get great pleasure from getting my patients out of pain and putting the smiles back on their faces.

I graduated from the University of Otago in 2011 with a Bachelor of Oral Health.

I am very excited to be joining the new Team at Bealey Ave, having previously worked at Team Dental Papanui Branch I am familiar with the Team and am pleased to have the opportunity to work with them in a permanent capacity.
I love working with my patients to help them achieve optimal oral and general health. I think its important to give my patients the understanding and knowledge for them to better manage their own oral health.
My main dental interests lie in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.
Central Otago is home for me, and it’s my favourite place to be. Outside of the practice, I enjoy capturing beauty through photography.

I was born in Malaysia and have graduated from the University of Otago. I have practised dentistry in Malaysia, Tonga and New Zealand.

Regular check-ups and good hygiene habits can be the best possible care you can give your teeth and prevent diseases in the mouth. Tackling those early toothaches and sensitivity can save your teeth in the long run. While I am aware that visiting the dentists may not be on top of most people's list of favourite things, my goal is to ensure your visit as pleasant as possible with a conscious effort to convert dental phobic patients to dental friendly. I strive to see to it that my patients have a clear understanding of their dental condition and how we can go forward together, to make the best decisions for their oral health.

Outside dentistry, I like to keep fit through racquet sports and also enjoy taking strolls along the beautiful beaches in Whangarei.

I am delighted to be joining Sonya. Mike and the Team at Team Dental Papamoa.

I completed my Bachelor in Dentistry and Postgraduate Diploma in Aesthetic Dentistry at the University of Pretoria.
I have been in practice since 2012 gaining experience in the government sector working with different ages and cultures, focusing a lot of emergency treatments and primary health care. From there I worked at a group practice and later opened my own surgery covering the entire scope of general dentistry, focusing on paediatrics and aesthetics. In 2018 I immigrated to New Zealand with my husband and young family.
My aim in dentistry is to make each patient comfortable, assisting with informed decisions about dental treatment in order to meet your dental expectations. I have a friendly, pleasant attitude and love working with all ages. I enjoy the full scope of dental practice with a special interest in Aesthetics.
In my private time I love spending time with my family and exploring this beautiful country.