Spinal services in Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast

Kia ora! This page introduces you to our core support team for people with spinal impairments or injury in the Nelson & Marlborough Region and on the West Coast.  We work with patients from their transition home from a spinal unit through their continued care and clinical support in the community. 

Community

NZ Spinal Trust

Access is proud to be the exclusive partner of the New Zealand Spinal Trust’s Whānau Peer Support programme.

NZST empowers people with spinal cord impairments and their whānau to build strong futures through support, information, and connection. Their Peer and Whānau Support team offers lived-experience guidance to those navigating life after a spinal injury.

At Access, we’re committed to this kaupapa. Our support workers and nurses assist tāngata with spinal injuries across Aotearoa, and we match donations to NZST’s annual appeal dollar for dollar, up to $25,000

Spinal Support NZ

Spinal Support NZ is a valued Access partner, providing peer support to people with spinal injury or impairment in hospital and in the community. Our sponsorship helps them continue their mahi, offering connection, encouragement, and lived experience to those navigating life after injury.

We also help sponsor Spinal Gatherings across the motu — regional events that bring people together to share information, build relationships, and strengthen community.

We’re proud to support initiatives that bring people together and make a real difference.

Welcome to our Regional Team

The Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast team is led by Jo Kara, our Regional Manager, who has almost 20 years of service at Access and a wealth of health care experience. Her career is grounded in a deep belief, in her words,  “that everyone deserves a fair chance to optimise their life, supported by the right people who uplift their dreams and aspirations”. Jo’s approach is shaped by compassion, equity, and a strong sense of whanaungatanga.

Natalie Taylor, our Regional Clinical Nurse Manager  has developed a deep understanding of patient needs over many years experience and values  fostering strong relationships built on trust and respect.  “Whether it’s offering comfort during tough times or helping someone recover, the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives is what keeps me passionate about this profession”.

Pictured left to right in the Nelson office – Natalie G, Annette, Maddie, Rachael and Laura