NextStepNZ Whakatane

About NextStepNZ Whakatane

NextStepNZ Whakatane brings specialised clinical exercise physiology and neuro-rehabilitation to the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Located on Kakahoroa Drive, the facility provides an inclusive, fully accessible community space designed to support individuals recovering from injuries, living with neurological conditions, managing chronic illnesses, or looking to build functional movement and independence.

Led by qualified clinical exercise physiologists like Sylvain Oggier, the centre blends modern gym facilities with evidence-based active physical therapies. From tailored 1-on-1 rehabilitation programs to targeted small group sessions such as Strength & Balance and dedicated Parkinson’s classes, the focus remains on personal empowerment, functional gains, and sustainable long-term health in a welcoming environment.

NextStepNZ Whakatane: Empowering Movement and Rehabilitation in the Eastern Bay of Plenty

Movement is fundamental to independence, health, and quality of life, yet finding an exercise space that accommodates diverse physical abilities can often be a barrier. Situated at 43 Kakahoroa Drive, NextStepNZ Whakatane was established to bridge that gap in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Inspired by the global NextStep model and grounded in clinical exercise physiology, the centre provides an accessible, fully equipped environment where rehabilitation, health condition management, and everyday fitness meet.

Unlike conventional fitness gyms, NextStepNZ Whakatane caters specifically to individuals navigating complex physical journeys. Whether an individual is working through recovery after a stroke, managing a spinal cord injury, adjusting to multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, recovering from orthopaedic surgery, or managing chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, the facility is designed from the ground up to ensure accessibility for all mobility levels.

Expert Clinical Guidance and Personalised Care

The foundation of NextStepNZ’s approach lies in its clinical team. In Whakatane, sessions are guided by qualified clinical exercise physiologists, including Sylvain Oggier, who holds an advanced Master’s degree in Adapted Physical Activity from Switzerland. This level of specialised knowledge ensures that every client receives exercises tailored to their specific physiological requirements rather than generic workout routines.

Programs begin with an understanding of where each individual currently stands and what goals matter most to them. One-on-one coaching sessions focus on unlocking physical potential, restoring mobility, rebuilding neuromuscular pathways, and building long-term functional autonomy. The facility is equipped with adapted cardio machines and specialised strength tools, allowing clients with reduced mobility or wheelchair users to train effectively and safely alongside experienced staff.

Community-Focused Group Programs

In addition to individualised exercise physiology, the Whakatane branch provides targeted group programs that create a motivating, social environment for participants with shared health considerations:

• **Strength & Balance:** Held on Mondays and Thursdays, these sessions focus on functional movement, stability, and coordination. Designed for all fitness levels, the exercises directly translate to safer, more confident daily activity.
• **Parkinson’s Group Classes:** Running on Thursday mornings, this supportive program encourages participants to live bravely and actively. It targets motor skills, balance, mental focus, and functional movement patterns to help manage symptoms and maintain independence.

A Welcoming Hub for Health and Recovery

NextStepNZ Whakatane is built around community, encouragement, and celebrating personal milestones. Whether taking the first steps back after major surgery, exploring new ways to stay active with a disability, or learning how to manage a long-term condition through movement, clients find a welcoming space without intimidation.

Appointments and introductory consultations can be arranged directly with the Whakatane team, providing individuals throughout Whakatane and the wider Eastern Bay of Plenty with access to compassionate, world-class exercise rehabilitation.

Signature items

• Strength & Balance Class
• Parkinson's Class
• Exercise Physiology Coaching
• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
• Free Intro Session

Menu

Specialised Group Classes

• Strength & Balance Class — Supportive group class running Mondays (11am-12pm) and Thursdays (12pm-1pm) focusing on coordination, mobility, and confidence.
• Parkinson's Class — Targeted movement session on Thursdays (11am-12pm) designed to build self-belief, improve motor control, and support living well with Parkinson's.
• Small Group Classes — Targeted fitness and mobility classes designed to address specific health conditions in a community setting.

Clinical & Personal Services

• Exercise Physiology — Specialised clinical movement coaching aimed at managing and improving chronic health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
• Rehabilitation Coaching — One-on-one guided coaching focused on recovery from surgery, accidents, or persistent musculoskeletal injuries.
• 1 on 1 Coaching — Individualised personal training designed to maximise overall workout performance, functional strength, and personal fitness.
• Free Intro Session — Introductory assessment and consultation to evaluate individual goals and explore tailored movement options.

Frequently asked questions

What services does NextStepNZ Whakatane provide?

The Whakatane branch offers clinical exercise physiology, 1-on-1 personal training, injury and post-surgical rehabilitation coaching, and specialised small group classes.

Who can benefit from training at the centre?

The facility supports people living with disabilities, neurological conditions (such as spinal cord injuries, stroke, MS, and Parkinson's), chronic health conditions (including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease), and those recovering from injuries or surgeries.

What group classes are currently scheduled in Whakatane?

Scheduled classes include Strength & Balance on Mondays (11:00 am – 12:00 pm) and Thursdays (12:00 pm – 1:00 pm), as well as a dedicated Parkinson's class on Thursdays (11:00 am – 12:00 pm).

Can I try the centre before committing to a program?

Yes, NextStepNZ Whakatane offers a free intro session that can be booked online through their booking portal.

Where is NextStepNZ Whakatane located?

The centre is located at 43 Kakahoroa Drive, Whakatāne 3120.

What qualifications do the trainers hold?

Staff members include clinical exercise physiologists with specialised degrees in adapted physical activity and sports sciences.

Tips

• {"body":"Take advantage of the free initial intro session to discuss your medical history, goals, and tour the accessible equipment.","title":"Book an Intro Session"}
• {"body":"If you're attending group sessions like Strength & Balance or the Parkinson's class, verify session times and book ahead with the team.","title":"Check the Class Schedule"}
• {"body":"Reach out via whakatane@nextstepnz.com or call 027 247 1011 to confirm specific rehabilitation programs or discuss tailored needs.","title":"Contact the Team Directly"}

Good to know

• {"accessibility":"Fully accessible gym facility equipped for all levels of mobility."}