_p.png)
Our Board
The PodiatryNZ Board is responsible to the members for the overall governance of the Association. This includes ensuring the long-term viability, enhancing performance through strategy formulation and policy making. The Board comprises the individual elected and co-opted members. Individual Board Members can only act to influence the decision-making of the entity when meeting formally as a group - as The Board.
Board Members are elected annually for a two-year term.
More information on how the Board operates and nomination forms are available for downloading.
PodiatryNZ Board & Staff Members
Matthew Franken
Board Chair
Matthew qualified as a Podiatrist in 2001 and has been practising Podiatry ever since. He has worked in Christchurch for 5 years, privately and publicly and then spent 2 years in a rural Australian hospital. Matthew and his wife, Kate moved to Blenheim in 2007, taking over the established Wairau Podiatry, turning it into Blenheim Podiatry in April 2014. Matthew is a keen sports man and has a strong interest in biomechanics and orthotics, as well as nail surgery.
Sarah Duncan
Board Member
I see all types of patients regarding problems with feet, but also ankles, knees, hips and even back pain. I am passionate about working to get you back up and doing what you love, without pain. I always try to provide you with information on your problem and support to get you comfortable. I also feel education is important, so you understand why your problem has happened, and to help prevent it recurring. I particularly enjoy working with runners, as I understand how frustrating these injuries can be.
Lawrence Kingi
Board Member
Graduated in 2008 with a Bachelor of Health Science (Podiatry). Lawrence is currently contracted to Counties Manukau District Health Board as part of the Diabetes Secondary Podiatry and Rheumatoid Arthritis clinics. I work in a multi-disciplinary team as a Renal Podiatrist.
He has been working with Huakina Development Trust to deliver a tikanga based podiatry clinic at Nga Hau e Wha Marae and Ooraeroa Marae as part of their Whare Oranga Programme.
I believe the biggest challenge facing PodiatryNZ is ensuring professional relevance is maintained through focused public engagement, branding and building awareness with other medical professions.
Rachael Harper
Board Member
I completed a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Genetics before being awarded a scholarship to study Podiatry at AUT University in Auckland, graduating in 2008.
I have worked for 11 years as a general practice podiatrist in both Auckland and the Waikato. I enjoy all aspects of podiatry, with a special interest in musculoskeletal foot and leg pain, nail and skin care.
I am keen to give back to the profession through the association. Out of work I am a professional cake decorator and enjoy creating amazing sweet delights.