MbChb [Otago], Dip. Obs and Gynae. [Auck], Dip Sports Med. [Auck]. FRNZCGP.
Our Staff
Dr Matthew Gentry
Dr Gentry is an experienced GP graduating from Otago Medical School in 1990. He has worked in the UK and Kenya and is a fellow of the RNZCGP [Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners]. He has worked at North Harbour Medical Centre since 1996 and loves the variety and challenge of General Practice.
Dr Gentry has interests in the elderly, sports medicine, paediatrics and minor surgery.
“I love coming to work each day at NHMC as it is a friendly family practice where everybody knows every patient that walks through the door. I enjoy getting to know patients and their families and I believe to understand people it is most important to have good communication. Being a good listener is vital to being a good doctor.”
Outside of work he enjoys skiing, cycling and sailing and spending time with his wife and three kids. He has a fox terrier dog named Ruby whom visits NHMC regularly to make sure he is keeping a good eye on his patients.
Dr Mark Groen
MbChb [Auck], Dip.Geriatrics [Auck]
Training at Auckland Medical school qualifying in 1986. Dr Groen specialised in geriatrics at Liverpool and then paediatrics in Auckland. He worked in general practice in Henderson before moving to NHMC over 20 years ago!
Dr Groen has a special interest in care for the elderly and visits several rest homes and private hospitals.
“We are lucky to have everyone here cheerful and easy to work with. I have a family of 8 that keep me very busy and in my wee bit of spare time I enjoy running, soccer and playing guitar and singing.”
Dr Audrey Thorpe
MbChb [Auck], Dip.Obs and Gynae. [Auck], FRNZCGP.
Dr Thorpe is an experienced General Practitioner who graduated from Auckland University in 1987.
She has a keen interest in women’s and children’s health and holds the Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology as well as being a Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners.
“I really enjoy the patients and their families and having been at NHMC for over 20 years, I believe this long term relationship is important. Having staff who know the patients well makes a more personal family friendly environment, which helps to provide better medical care.”
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, and often provides a taxi service for her daughter’s sport.
Dr Priyanka Sharma
MBBS, Diploma Public Health (Auckland University), PG Certificate in Women’s Health (Auckland University), FRNZCGP
She is a specialist GP and obtained her fellowship to the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners.
Dr Sharma enjoys all areas of General Practice and her special areas of interest include Paediatrics, Dermatology, Women’s health.
Dr Sharma believes in treating the whole person and takes time to get a full diagnosis before coming up with a treatment plan, working on wellbeing and preventative medicine together.
“I enjoy working with our friendly staff at NHMC delivering appropriate medical care to the patients. I live with my husband and we are proud parents of our son. Outside of work, I like spending time outdoors with my friends and family and exploring the world.”
Dr William Hung
Dr William Hung is a GP locum and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, soon after which he undertook a two-year placement in various fast-paced hospitals across Auckland. Following departure from hospital medicine, William quickly undertook roles in both General Practice as well as within the Department of Corrections, where he would provide healthcare across multiple corrections facilities throughout New Zealand. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring the scenery Aotearoa has to offer, as well as indulging in cuisines from around the world.
Ruby Gentry
Ruby, the fox terrier, has been coming to North Harbour Medical Centre for 10 years now, she loves meeting new people and sunbathing under Dr Matthew’s desk. Ruby loves a belly rub and sticking her head out the car window. She likes to follow Dr Matthew around, ensuring the well-being of all our patients during consults.
Nursing Staff
Dianne
Dianne is an experienced nurse who has come from working in Auckland hospital. She is enjoying the transition to general practice and the difference that this offers.
Anthea
Anthea is also an experienced nurse who has previously worked in aged care. She is enjoying working in general practice with such a wide variety of patients.
Wellness Team
Health Coach – Traci
I’m Traci, the Health Coach at North Harbour Medical Centre.
I offer a FREE service, working with people registered with the practice, 18 years and over, who would like support with lifestyle and/or behaviour changes, to promote success with self-management as a preventative measure and/or to achieve personal health goals. This includes, but is not limited to; diabetes, cholesterol, high blood perssure, weight loss, healthy eating, exercise, stress and sleep. I can also help to connect you with other services, if required.
Sessions are usually 20-30 minutes and can be made for the same day, or booked for a later date – either face to face in clinic, or via phone call. Together we will come up with an action plan, to help you with long-term conditions and goals. I can offer follow-up appointments as needed.
To schedule an appointment, you can either book through reception or have your doctor make the introduction.
Health Improvement Practitioner – Melissa
I’m Melissa, the Health Improvement Practioner (HIP) at North Harbour Medical Centre. You have access to my services for FREE as part of the GP practice.
I support patients facing challenges that affect their overall wellbeing, such as stress, anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, sleep difficulties, managing health conditions, alcohol or drug use or feeling stuck in life.
Sessions, tailored to your needs, are available for up to 30 minutes. Same-day appointments are usually available and I offer flexibility with in-person and phone consultations.
While many find the assistance they need in just one visit, some return to learn new skills. Additionally, I can help you connect with other services, including counselling and community support workers.
To schedule an appointment, you can either book through reception or have your doctor make the introduction.
Practice Manager
Debbie
I love the people and the warm caring team that we have. I feel lucky to be part of a practice that you are more than a number and we all genuinely care about each of our patients and those that we work with. It’s a nice feeling to come to work and know you are part of a team. I’m always keen to go on holiday you only have to mention ‘Rarotonga’ and I’m there but anywhere that is warm with a beautiful beach will be just fine.
Medical Receptionists
Jenny
Kia Ora, I have been part of the NHMC team for 7 years now, coming from a private training education background. It has been a fun, and at times interesting experience learning the ‘quirks’ of the medical profession – especially the often complicated medical terminologies! It is great being part of a small, caring medical team and getting to know our patients, hopefully helping to make their visit to NHMC a pleasant one. Living now in Helensville allows me to ‘take time out’ from the hustle and bustle of the Shore whilst still feeling that I belong here after 26 years.
Helen
I joined NHMC at the end on 2021 previously coming from a background of office management, marketing and customer service. I enjoy being part of a small supportive team and providing excellent customer care to our valued patients. In my spare time, I enjoy visiting the many beautiful beaches and nature walks the North Shore has to offer and spending time with family and friends. I also have a love of rescuing stray cats and kittens, and have 5 rescue cats of my own.
Chloe
I joined NHMC at the end of 2020 as a relief receptionist and joined permanently a year later. Before NHMC I worked as a nanny and a leader in the St John youth programme. Outside of NHMC you’ll find me volunteering at Riding for the disabled, sewing, growing my plant collection, doing after school pickups, chasing my toddler nephew and looking after my two rescue rabbits Cous Cous and Linguine and caring for my two dogs Nala and Evie.
Get in Touch
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