Physiotherapy

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy uses proven techniques to help restore movement and function to anyone affected by an injury, disability or health condition.

Our team

Deborah Surtees - Senior Inpatient Physiotherapist

Carol Turner - Senior Outpatient Physiotherapist

Leonie Annett - Community Physiotherapist

Sarah Dewes - Community Physiotherapist

Danielle Watson-Smith - Physiotherapy Assistant

Barbara Wilkins - Administrative Support, Allied Health

What we do

Physiotherapists work across all inpatient services in Rotorua Hospital and have a unit at Taupō Hospital.

They also provide outpatient services.

Specialist services are provided for a  wide variety  of conditions in a modern, well-equipped department. 

The Physiotherapy department at Te Whatu Ora Lakes is accredited by ACC under the Endorsed Provider Network (EPN).

Orthopedic: We are skilled at treating spinal and or peripheral joint problems including sports injuries, headaches, spinal disorders ,soft tissue lesions, sprains, trains, hand therapy, post fracture, amputations, joint replacement  etc. We devise individual programs which may include exercises, mobilisations  electrical treatments, ultra violet treatment, massage, education and advice.

Respiratory: Education and treatment  for asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis etc. COPD Classes are held Mondays and Thursdays 1.30 pm -3.30 pm. Referrals via the Physiotherapy Department.

Cardiac: Individual and class sessions held. Classes are every Tuesday 1.30pm-3.30 pm as part of the cardiac rehabilitation programme for outpatients. Referral via the Cardiac Nurse Specialist.

Continence Specialist Physiotherapy: For all forms of incontinence.

Community Physiotherapy: Te Whatu Ora Lakes provides community physiotherapy for patients who require physiotherapy but are unable to attend as an outpatient. The aim is to facilitate people to attain optimum functional level and independence.

Referrals are accepted from general practitioners , practice nurses and other Allied health practitioners.

Referral to Services

Referrals are accepted from general practitioners and health professionals in the primary sector, or Te Whatu Ora Lakes consultants.

Staff may be referred by the Health and Safety Team. No referral is required for ACC claims.

To refer, fax 343 7702, or post referrals to the Physiotherapy Department or email

On weekends document referral in notes, and contact On-Call Physiotherapist via Telephonists ph 3481199 or internally dial 0