Our Veterinary Nurses

DARRELL JEFFRIES - Veterinary Nurse   

Darrell joined the Howick team in 1987 then went on to attain her Animal Science and Technology Diploma in 1992.

Being involved with animals most of her life it seemed natural to become a Veterinary Nurse where she enjoy's animals and finds her work at the clinic, very satisfying.   

Darrell has been involved with Labradors for the past 24 years, sadly her last Labrador past away in December at the age of 14 years. 

Darrell's and her husband Max live on 10 acres in Hunua where they farm sheep.  Darrell enjoys breeding sheep, labradors and the behavioural aspects of animals in general...including our livestock.

When she is not working at the clinic Darrell enjoys spending time with her two wonderful grandsons (who keep you young) plus walking, gardening and travelling.  

 NATALIA OLERSKAYA - Veterinary Nurse

Natalia has always loved animals and always had them as a child growing up. Natalia has three cats and has been involved in working with animals in one way or another as long as she can remember. Natalia has worked in a zoo overseas (as a rehabilitation keeper), done some volunteer work for SPCA and Aquarium and Kiwi House in the South Island and nursed back to health a number of stray birds, cats and rodents that turned up on her doorstep. Natalia has a degree in Science, Conservation Ecology and a National Certificate in Veterinary Nursing. 

 CAroline SchÖler - Client Relations

Caroline joined us in February 2011 as part of our Client Relations Team. She brings with her, her passion for animals and friendly personality along with a desire to give our clients efficient and helpful service. Caroline’s love of animals is shared by her husband Justin who helps run the menagerie of pets – Bax the English Cocker Spaniel, Teasel and Bracken the cats and Caroline’s horse Kiara whom much of Caroline’s spare time is dedicated to pleasure riding and show jumping.

REBECCA HOLLIS - Veterinary Nurse

Rebecca has recently joined the team at Howick.  Originally from a media background Rebecca went on to study at Unitec and has graduated with a Certificate in Animal Care and a Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.  Rebecca loves her involvement with cats and dogs and is very keen to gain more experience with pocket pets.

Rebecca's goal for the future is to go overseas to work in Bear Rehabilitation. 

AMANDA WARNER - Client Relations

Amanda has been Veterinary Nursing for over 25 years.  Amanda is a dedicated, caring nurse with a special interest in the emotional welfare of animals and behaviour.

Amanda was the first person to become a qualified Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner in London and New Zealand.

Amanda enjoys giving clients advice on their pet's behaviour problems and loves being part of the Pet Doctors Howick's Puppy Classes" on Wednesday eveings.

Amanda lives in Cockle Bay with her Golden Retriever "Maisie" and cat, "Sydney" whom she handreared as a kitten. 

KIM Banas- Veterinary Nurse - Currently on Maternity Leave

Kim...gave birth to a wee girl  "Lily" on 21/3/11 weighing 5lb...congratulations!

Kim first experienced the rewards of working with animals through volunteering for her local Veterinary clinic from the age 13. After High School, Kim took on a full time role and attained her Certificate in Veterinary Nursing in 1995. Her genuine care for the health and well-being of animals extends further than the workplace, as Kim also trains and competes in obedience with her Pomeranian “Wicket”, owns and has bred Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and has a passion for Birmans. Kim has been with Pet Doctors Howick since June 2009, and was previously based in Taranaki.

JASMINE GRAHAM - CLIENT RELATIONS

HEATHER O'NEILL

Prior to working at the Howick Veterinary Clinic ( as a reliever) Heather was a Zookeeper at Auckland Zoo and also worked with native animals at a theme park. She is a fully qualified veterinary nurse and lives with her family on a small lifestyle block with miniature horses, goats, dogs, cats, chooks (too many), rabbits, guinea pigs (also too many), birds and fish. Her spare time is spent showing rabbits and guinea pigs and committee work with several small animal clubs.Her two daughters are following in her footsteps and a very tolerant husband can often be heard complaining he's at the bottom of the "Family Foodchain". Luckily he can cook. Heather dabbles in gardening with a passion for planting trees for wild birds to enjoy