Meet the team

Senior Audiologist & Director, BSc, MAud(Hons), MBA, MNZAS, CCC

With over 30 years in audiology, Simon is an experienced audiologist and founding director of Audiology South. His passion for hearing healthcare began with a love for technology and a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives—a combination that continues to drive his work today.

Simon has a deep interest in all areas of audiology, but he’s particularly passionate about hearing aid technology and how it transforms lives. He’s seen firsthand how the right hearing solution can not only improve communication but restore confidence, connection, and joy to clients and their families.

Simon’s approach to care is grounded in empathy and integrity. He treats every client as he would a member of his own family—working alongside them to find practical, personalised solutions and guiding them through their hearing journey with trust and support.

Originally from Wellington and Blenheim, Simon and his wife always dreamed of living in the Queenstown Lakes area. They were drawn by the outdoors—and Simon takes full advantage, with hobbies like skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and even a bit of golf (though don’t ask him about his handicap!). You might be surprised to learn Simon was once a ski instructor. These days, his favourite sound is a good 1980s banger on the car stereo—he might even sing along!

Simon’s advice for new hearing aid users? “Persevere, go for the best technology you can afford, and trust your clinician to help you get the most from it.”

Senior Audiologist & Director, BA(Hons), BCom, MAud(Hons), MNZAS, CCC

With nearly three decades in audiology, Anthony brings experience, warmth, and a deep personal connection to hearing care. As both an audiologist and company director, he’s proud to continue a family legacy that began with his grandfather and father, servicing the community at the Dunedin Hearing Clinic from 1960 to 2008.

Anthony has a special interest in tinnitus assessment and treatment, but what he values most is simply getting to know his clients—listening to their stories, understanding their needs, and tailoring solutions that truly fit. His philosophy is straightforward: “I use my own ears first, listening carefully to each client’s needs to find the best solution”.

Born and raised in Dunedin, Anthony trained in Auckland before returning south to join the family practice. In 2016, he became a founding partner of Audiology South—an independent, locally owned network of clinics committed to client-first care. Over the years, he’s been fortunate to work with many inspiring people, including sporting heroes, Dame Lois Muir and Dick Tayler, who are now valued clients and advocates.

Outside of work, you’ll find Anthony swimming or cycling through the stunning landscapes of Central Otago. Some little-known facts about Anthony is that he’s a subject in the world-famous “Dunedin Study” and he once completed the iconic Coast to Coast challenge.

His favourite sound? The unmistakable crack of a cricket ball on English willow.

His advice to those new to hearing aids: “Appreciate the little sounds—they’re the ones that bring life to life.”

Anne recently joined Audiology South as a Senior Audiologist in the Dunedin clinic. Having grown up in Central Otago, she completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Massey University before starting as a Trainee Audiologist at Dunedin Hospital in 1980. By 1983, Anne had gained a master’s degree in Audiology and Speech Science from Purdue University (USA).

She has since worked in many locations overseas and around NZ, in both public hospitals and private clinics. Anne is now well settled on a small lifestyle block in North Taieri!

Audiologist, BSc (Biological Sciences), GradDipTchgLn (Primary), MAud(Dist), MNZAS, CCC

Rachel brings a unique blend of teaching and healthcare experience to her work as an audiologist. After seven years working in primary education, Rachel followed her passion for science and supporting children’s development into the world of audiology. She now specialises in paediatrics and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), where her background in education gives her a valuable edge in understanding and supporting younger clients.

Empathy is at the heart of Rachel’s approach—she’s focused on truly listening, understanding individual needs, and working alongside each client to find practical, tailored solutions. One of her proudest moments at Audiology South has been training other clinicians in APD testing—something she finds both rewarding and exciting.

Originally from Nottingham, England, Rachel has lived in the UK, Australia, and now Dunedin. Outside of work, she’s deeply involved in a long-term charity project helping parents and educators use children’s literature to support emotional intelligence. She’s also a creative spirit who enjoys playing piano, painting, sewing, dancing, and heading to the theatre for a little improv, comedy and musical theatre. Some of Rachel’s favourite sounds can be heard in the video-calls with her sisters in the UK - the laughter, impressions and stories told.

Rachel encourages anyone new to hearing aids to stay engaged and share specific feedback—working together is the best way to fine-tune the experience and keep those aids out of the drawer.

Audiologist, BSc(Hons), MAud, MNZAS, CCC

Darren brings nearly a decade of experience in hearing healthcare to Audiology South. With a pragmatic, honest approach, he’s dedicated to helping clients find the best value-for-money solutions tailored to their individual needs, focusing on what truly works.

Darren was drawn to audiology as a field that balances healthcare, business, and client-centred service. At Audiology South, he appreciates the independence and integrity that come from being part of a locally owned, client-focused team.

Clients appreciate Darren’s down-to-earth manner and straightforward advice on their hearing journey.

Audiologist, MAud
Originally from Mexico, Omar moved to Australia in 2010, to complete his studies and now, with his family, has made Dunedin and New Zealand his home. Omar became an audiologist because he’s passionate about helping people. He’s dedicated to using the latest technology to make a real difference in people’s lives, especially when it comes to improving communication and connection with their families.

Audiologist, M.Aud(Hons), B.Com Ag (VFM), MNZAS, CCC

Nicholas brings over 20 years of audiology experience to Audiology South, backed by a personal understanding of hearing challenges—he was born with hearing loss and tinnitus himself. His professional passion lies in adult hearing assessment and rehabilitation, where he takes great satisfaction in helping clients reconnect with the world around them.

Nicholas values the autonomy and local focus of working in an independent clinic and credits the fantastic Client Care Manager team for supporting the hearing journey of every client. He especially enjoys moments when clients hear sounds they hadn’t realised they were missing, often sharing touching stories of rediscovery.

Originally from a farm in Edendale, Nicholas now calls Gore home, where he lives with his wife. Outside of work, he enjoys trail running, spending time with his dogs, reading, cars, and being active in his church. Fun fact: he once spent a year in Iceland as an exchange student and spoke fluent Icelandic!

His favourite sound is birdsong, and his advice to new hearing aid users is simple: “Make them part of your daily routine.”

Audiologist, Bachelor of Elementary Education (Special Education), MAud, MNZAS, CCC

Bettina’s journey into audiology began with her work in education, where she saw firsthand how limited access to hearing care impacted her students’ learning and lives. That experience sparked her passion for becoming part of the solution—and today, she’s proud to help clients reconnect with the world around them through better hearing.

Since 2017, Bettina has worked in hearing healthcare with a focus on making clients feel truly heard and valued. Her caring, client-first approach doesn’t end with the fitting of hearing aids—she believes in supporting people throughout their entire hearing journey. She loves being part of the friendly, collaborative team at Audiology South, where everyone pitches in to give their best.

During her time studying special education, Bettina learnt Braille and Sign Language, and still a grasp on the basics of both.

Originally from the Philippines, Bettina moved to New Zealand drawn by its mix of adventure and beautiful scenery — “the best of both worlds.” Her favourite sound? The calming rhythm of ocean waves. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, reading, music, and soaking in a good movie or TV show.

Audiologist, MAud, MSc, MNZAS, CCC

Regina brings a strong academic background and a genuine passion for healthcare to her role as an audiologist at Audiology South. Regina is committed to providing best-practice, client-centred care tailored to each individual’s needs.

What Regina enjoys most about working at Audiology South is the collaborative and supportive team environment. She believes in listening closely to her clients and working alongside them to achieve the best possible outcomes. For Regina, it’s the small things—like the team’s light-hearted banter during breaks—that make her workday especially rewarding.

Having grown-up all-around New Zealand and spending several years in Taiwan, Regina now calls the South home—drawn in originally by work but staying for the people she works with. Outside the clinic, you’ll often find her hiking, diving, or gaming.

Regina’s favourite sound? The comforting crackle of firewood burning. Her advice for those new to hearing aids: “Be open with your audiologist—together, you’ll get the best results.”

Originally from the Philippines, Lei also worked as a speech and language therapist for several years before finishing her Master’s degree in Clinical Audiology. She found a good correlation with these two professions in helping people with hearing difficulties.
Moving to New Zealand 5 years ago, she decided to focus on her audiology practice. She is pleased to be joining a clinic where her speech therapy experience is of value. She is enjoying the relaxed life of being an Invercargill resident and is always on the lookout for good food finds in the country. If not singing a tune on their karaoke, weekends are spent with her husband and son, going to the beach or park and enjoying family time.

Senior Audiometrist, MNZAS, CCC

With over 30 years of experience in hearing healthcare, Deborah Beck is a trusted and caring Senior Audiometrist at Audiology South. Deborah is dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life through better hearing.

Deborah takes pride in guiding clients through their hearing journey—explaining options clearly and helping them find the right solution without the overwhelm. She loves working as part of a dedicated local team that prioritises client care and values the strong community connection that Audiology South brings.

Born and raised in Invercargill, Deborah has lived there her whole life and brings a deeply personal touch to her work. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys gardening, cycling, spending time with her family (including her chickens!), along with feeding and watching wild quail in her backyard. Her favourite sounds? The melodic calls of tūī and bellbirds.

Deborah’s approach is all about getting to know her clients, so she can recommend hearing solutions that truly fit their lifestyle. If you’re new to hearing aids, her advice is simple: take your time, ask questions, and know that support is always available.

Hilary recently “came home” to the Mainland after working for many years in the Wellington region for a Danish hearing aid supplier and a local independent audiology clinic.

Originally from Tuatapere, Southland, Hilary says she is happy to be back in the South Island for the change of scene and pace, and plans to settle in Central Otago.

“I’m excited to be working with Southern people again and to be nearer to family,” she says.

“I’m really pleased to be working for Audiology South,” she says. “It’s important to me to be able to help people access the technology most suited to their hearing needs, rather than being confined by manufacturer supply agreements.”

Ear Nurse Manager, BNur

Helen brings over 30 years of nursing experience to her role as Nurse Manager at Audiology South. She offers a holistic medical approach to ear and hearing care. Her clinical work is guided by the World Health Organization’s social determinants of health, reflecting a strong commitment to patient-centred, equitable care.

Since joining Audiology South in 2020, Helen has been passionate about making a difference in clients’ lives—especially in complex cases involving chronic ear infections, paediatrics, and medically related hearing/ear health conditions. Her ability to help resolve long-standing issues has improved the quality of life for many clients.

Helen grew up mainly in Northland and has travelled the globe, (she has lived, worked or travelled on every continent except Antarctica). This includes a memorable deployment with the UN working as a nurse, during the conflict in East Timor, where she was privileged to work with the East Timorese, experiencing their strength and resilience as they regained their countries independence.

Helen lives just outside Port Chalmers on a small acreage with her family, enjoying camping, hiking, gardening, and raising heritage chickens, along with a menagerie of other animals. Her favourite sounds are those of nature and her advice to new hearing aid users is, “be patient; it takes time for the brain to adjust to a new way of hearing”.

A registered nurse for over 30 years, Carole has a passion for people and has enjoyed working in a variety of community nursing roles to provide primary health services, preventative care, and health education. With seven years of recent experience working in the Audiology field, Carole loves to see the improvements that better ear care and function provides and the difference this makes to clients and their families.

Ear Nurse, BNurs

Nicky holds a Bachelor of Nursing from the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) in Invercargill working across medical and surgical settings, aged care, and occupational health. Nicky now specialises in ear health with Audiology South and finds great satisfaction in making an immediate, positive difference in her clients' day.

Nicky supports clients on their hearing journey by creating a welcoming environment, taking the time to listen, explain, and educate on ear health and available care options. She is passionate about empowering people to take control of their ear and hearing wellbeing.

Originally from Dunedin, Nicky has called Central Otago for nearly a decade. Outside of work, she enjoys mountain biking, and when time allows, experimenting with printmaking and painting.

She values the collaborative environment at Audiology South, where teamwork leads to the best outcomes for clients.

Favourite sound? The crunch of snow underfoot on a spring day.

Maura has been a registered nurse for over 30 yrs. She has had a variety of roles, most recently as an occupational health nurse, and previously in operating theatres and surgical wards both in NZ and overseas. Maura joined Audiology South in April of 2024 and is enjoying getting to know our regular clients as well as meeting new ones. She works out of our Otago clinics and strives to provide the best possible ear health care to all who come through her door.

As well as her love of travel Maura enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking her dogs, beekeeping and gardening at her home on the Otago Peninsula.

Ear Nurse, BNurs

Gael Barthelet is an Ear Nurse at Audiology South with a Bachelor of Nursing and a strong background in primary care. Originally from Gisborne, Gael moved south to Invercargill to be close to the wild landscapes of Fiordland, Queenstown, and Rakiura—perfect for his love of tramping, mountaineering, and running with his dogs.

His interest in audiology developed through frequent work with acute ENT issues in children, sparking further exploration into ear health. Gael brings a holistic, client-led approach to his work, always considering the full picture and listening carefully to each person’s unique experience.

Clients appreciate Gael’s down-to-earth style and commitment to practical, personalised care. Whether in clinic or out in the field, he enjoys the variety of working across Southland and Otago and being part of Audiology South’s multidisciplinary team, which allows for tailored solutions and excellent outcomes.

And yes—he really is French (the name might give it away, even if the accent doesn’t). His favourite sound? A Kea’s call echoing across the mountains—or David Bowie’s reassuring “you’re not alone” to close the Ziggy Stardust album.