Your team for oral health,

it's vital

The power of many More knowledge, more expertise, more care…

Get the benefit of the experience and insights of an entire team that is dedicated not only to your oral health but to helping you live a better, happier life.

Dr Adam Durning Dentist - Co-Director

Hi, I’m Adam. 

I studied dentistry right here in New Zealand at our very own University of Otago. I received my degree in 1990 and moved to the lovely environs of Wanganui. I consider it a privilege and take great pride in knowing I will provide a lifelong service to the Whanganui community and find it difficult to express the gratitude I have of now treating the children and grandchildren of my original patients from so many years ago. 

I am happily married to Stephanie who is a practice nurse and we are the proud parents of three children, Anna, Finlay and Luca. I love the outdoors and am an avid fisherman, hunter, skier and love riding motorcycles. 

I am passionate about taking an all-encompassing approach to dentistry and oral health and to achieving the best outcomes possible for my patients. I firmly believe that oral health is a vital component to our overall health and well-being and have dedicated myself to this philosophy and the advancement of dentistry throughout New Zealand. 

Over the years I travelled extensively abroad to study and attend many courses. I am a life member and Diplomat of the World Congress of Micro Dentistry and graduated Dux in a 2-year Mini Orthodontic Residency Program. The insights, knowledge and skills I obtained resulted in me becoming the first accredited Australasian Clinical Laser Trainer and I developed a training program designed to pass on these modern dental techniques to dentists back home in New Zealand as well as Australia. During this period, I travelled extensively lecturing internationally. Because I was so actively involved in the rapid increase and utilisation of modern technology and techniques within Dentistry, I identified a need for a formal structure and organisation within the field and I consequently founded the New Zealand Institute of Minimal Intervention Dentistry in 2002.  

Over the years I expanded my horizons and am now a Co-Director of the Dentists Group which is a group of like-minded dentists who have our patients interests at the heart of everything we do. 

 

Dr Jamie Searle Dentist

I grew up in Levin before moving to Dunedin to study Dentistry. 5 years in the cold was enough to convince me to move closer to home, so I made the move to Wanganui.

Working at The Dentists has been very rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. It has also been very rewarding seeing the improvement we can make in peoples lives through their oral health.

I am a member of the New Zealand Dental Association and the New Zealand Institute of Minimally Invasive Dentistry, and am constantly striving to better myself and the outcomes I can provide for all patients.

Outside of work you can find me digging up dirt at a golf course near you.

Dr Jino Kunnetthedam Dentist

Hi, I’m Jino. I was born in Christchurch but spent my childhood growing up in Oamaru where I could always be found kicking a ball around at the local football fields. I then spent 5 years at the University of Otago where I obtained my Bachelor of Dental Surgery with Distinction and found my passion for oral surgery.

I focus my efforts on making your appointment stress-free and straightforward so that we can make the right decisions to get you to the smile you deserve.  I take pride in my work using the latest techniques and technology to deliver the highest quality service possible but what gives me the most satisfaction is seeing the difference a pain free and beautiful smile can make in the lives of my patients.

I believe in a preventative strategy to maintaining oral health but understand that sometimes circumstances can result in things going unchecked. So, whether you’re looking to stay on course or get back on the track come see me I can’t wait to meet you. 

Dr Mark Huang Dentist

Dr Mark Huang came to live in New Zealand from Taiwan in 1995 to pursue a better education and living environment and is “exceedingly satisfied with the opportunities New Zealand has offered”.

Mark graduated from Otago University in 2004 and even though he had no family or friends in Wanganui, he decided to move here because he wanted the opportunity to work with Dental Lasers in one of the most up to date practices in New Zealand. Mark believes in regular check-ups, early detection of decay and minimally invasive treatment. In the past three years Mark has been treating patients with I.V sedation, micro air-abrasion and CEREC (computer aided porcelain restorations). He enjoys the efficiency and quality treatments the laser technology brings.

Mark says “I am very thankful for the technology. There is no comparison to the treatment this technology provides. The dental laser especially has enhanced my performance and has helped me to treat my patients in a less invasive and more comfortable way”.

Dr Sue Cheah Dentist

Sue graduated from the University of Otago in 2015. Born in Malaysia, she is able to communicate fluently in English, Malay, Mandarin and Cantonese.

She enjoys partnering with people, especially to improve their oral health and appearance. Her passion lies in the restorative and oral surgery sector of the profession.

Driven by a simple work ethic, Sue treats her patients with care, as she would to herself and her family.

Outside of the practice she spends her time exploring nature, trying new cooking recipes, snowboarding, practising yoga and looking at dog memes.

Dr Tony Lin Dentist

Tony graduated from the University of Otago in 2015 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Born in Taiwan and moved to New Zealand when he was 14. He attended Auckland Grammar School before heading down to Dunedin for dental degree. He enjoys all aspects of dentistry and has special interest on dental prosthetic, root canal treatment and cosmetic dentistry.

Tony believes modern dentistry is about patient comfort and quality service. He aims to provide the best care to all patients with latest technology. He attends courses frequently to keep up-to-date with the latest dental technology and clinical research. He also has publications in the Journal of Dental Research, Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry and Journal of Dental Education.

Tony is a member of New Zealand Dental Association and New Zealand Institute of Minimal Invasive Dentistry.

Outside dentistry, he enjoys basketball, biking and travelling.

Michael Zhang Dentist

As a proud Whanganui local, returning home was a no-brainer for me. Family and the incredible community that Whanganui brings were both significant factors after graduating from the University of Otago, Bachelor of Dental Surgery.

I enjoy practicing in all aspects of general dentistry and I firmly believe in preventive care. I am dedicated to a gentle and comfortable dental experience and work closely with my patients to achieve the best outcomes.

Outside the clinic, you'll often find me exploring new places or playing various sports including golf, football, badminton, and tennis.

I'm thrilled to be back in Whanganui and ready to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones too!

Ani Dental Assistant

Hi, my name is Ani and I'm new to the team here at The Dentists.

I have just ended my maternity leave and I'm so happy to have found a workplace that has made me feel comfortable being away from my little one while I adjust to coming back to work. 

I'm looking forward to learning as much as I can about oral health and I'm excited to work with and meet new people. 

Danielle Receptionist

I was born and raised in wanganui

Before working at The dentists I worked in retail for a little over 8 years starting while I was still at school

I have been at The Dentists for a month now and have loved every day since I’ve started! Each day is different and there is always new things to learn, I really enjoy meeting new people and look forward to getting to know everyone I meet along the way.

Felicity Dental Assistant

Hi my name is Felicity. I am a Dental Assistant here at ‘The Dentists’. I was born and raised in Whanganui. I started with The Dentists at the beginning of 2023, I enjoy the challenge of learning new skills and meeting new people. It is great to be in a job where every day is different and always keeping you on your toes. Outside of work I enjoy spending time outside in the sun, on the water fishing, diving and going for walks and runs.

Jeimy Laboratory Manager

I'm originally from Colombia and have a degree in Dentistry from the University of Columbia.  I came to New Zealand in 2004 and since then I have been working as a Dental Technician at the Dentists. 

I specialise in laboratory work and orthodontics and I'm very proud to be part of the team at The Dentists. There are always opportunities to learn new skills due to being able to access the latest technology and procedures.

Kelly Office Manager

Hi I'm Kelly. I was born in Wanganui and have lived here all my life. I love Wanganui and feel we have a really special community.

I have worked in the dental industry for over 25 years both as a Dental Assistant and Receptionist. What I really love about my job is the contact with the patients and building long lasting relationships. I have done this with many over the years, which has now carried over to some of their children!

I enjoy being a part of the team at The Dentists and am committed to making patients feel welcome and comfortable within our practise.

Kendall Laboratory Assistant

Hi I'm Kendall.

I have been working at The Dentists for three years now and started off as a Dental Assistant. I worked as a Dental Assistant for the first year before moving in into the Laboratory, where i make dentures and mouthguards. I really enjoy the lab work as I feel like there is a real art to it and I've always enjoyed 'arty things'.

When I'm not working I enjoy being outdoors, going for walks and runs and doing workouts with my friends. I also love spending time with my family, attending concerts and travelling.

Louise Hygienist

Hi my name is Louise. I mainly grew up and did most of my education in Whanganui. It was a great place to bring up my children Monique and Shaun, now also my grandson Jaxon.

I am proud to say I have worked for The Dentists now for 25 years. I love my job and I'm very passionate about my work. I am highly trained, have years of experience and pride myself on being professional. I like to greet each patient with a friendly smile and ensure they are comfortable, relaxed and well informed about their treatment plan. I do this by working in a modern dental practice with all the latest technology and by being supported by a great team of clinicians.

I am a member of the NZ Dental Hygienist's Association and the NZIMID and I frequently attend conferences and lectures to keep up to date with the latest technology. I strive to give every patient the best care and expertise of our profession. I believe oral health is important to over all health.

When I'm not at work I enjoy spending time with my family, walking, yoga and helping my partner on a farm.

Mahalia Dental Assistant

Kia Ora, my name is Mahalia.

I am a Dental Assistant here at ‘The Dentists’.
I was born in Tasmania but moved to New Zealand in 2012 to be closer to my family and learn more about my Māori culture.
We lived in Te Kuiti until 2016 then moved to Whanganui where I attended Whanganui High School.
I had an interest in Agriculture but changed to Skin care and Beauty and I completed a Level 4 Beauty therapy course at UCOL in 2022. I’m very pleased to be working here. :) I enjoy interacting with our patients and learning new things every day.

Nadia Dental Assistant

I started working for the dentists in June 2019, and I have loved every minute of it! It’s a job where every day is different, and everyone we meet is unique.

I’ve always had an interest in dentistry and feel as though I am continuing to learn every day. I love building relationships with our patients and helping them achieve their oral health goals and making them feel safe, and comfortable! 

I will be off on maternity leave in July 2020, but will definitely be back in 2021! 

Pat Dental Assistant

Kia ora, I'm Pat. I am a dental assistant at ‘The Dentists’ based in Whanganui. Born in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, I moved to Whanganui, New Zealand in 2009.

I enjoy the opportunity as a dental assistant to be able to learn and apply new skills every day, alongside meeting all sorts of people, from all walks of life. I find it challenging, yet utmost rewarding. 

Beyond the doors of the dental clinic, I like to dedicate my time to playing football. Playing for local club, Whanganui Athletic FC ( come on you reds! )

Ranra Dental Assistant

Meet Ranra, a talented dental assistant from overseas , now flourishing in the scenic land of New Zealand. With a passion for dental care and a commitment to excellence, Ranra dedicates her skills and expertise to ensure patients receive the highest level of care and comfort. Beyond the dental chair, she enjoys immersing herself in the beauty of New Zealand's landscapes, spending quality time with friends and family and hitting the gym on the odd day.

Richelle Hygienist

Hi my name is Richelle  

I have worked in the Dental Industry for the past 25 years. I started as a chair side nurse then went on to become a Hygienist. 
 
I have been married to my husband Shaun for the past 20 years and have been a couple since we were aged 15 at High school. We have 4 beautiful children aged between 13-25 years of age. 
 
I enjoy music and dancing. I am a keen gardener, and keep a very clean home, I might be just a little OCD and maybe this is what makes me such a good hygienist. 
I have a happy easy-going personality with a quick wit sense of humor. I enjoy making people laugh with my funny little stories. I find ‘laughter’ a great form of medicine for the nervous and sometimes anxious patient. 
 
I understand that most people don’t ‘love’ coming to the dentist, but my personal goal is for every patient to walk out feeling better than when they walked in. 

Oral Health is what I do and it’s important to me that I help my patients also to have a clear understanding of what is happening in their own mouths, so we can work together as a team to keep you healthy.  

I am honest, kind, caring, respectful, and totally passionate about what I do. It’s important to me not to just be your hygienist, but to become a friend in your journey to good Oral Health. 
 
I love what I do, and I do what I love.
 
 

Ruby Dental Assistant

Hi, my name is Ruby

I’m a dental assistant here at ‘The Dentists’ Whanganui. I started working with The Dentists in January 2024.

I was born in Wellington and lived in Kapiti then moved to Whanganui when I was young to be around family. I really enjoy working here where every day is different, I enjoy working with the lovely staff we have here and I enjoy meeting new people every day.

Taina Dental Assistant

Kia ora, my name is Taina. I am a dental assistant at ‘The Dentists’ in Whanganui. I was born in Hastings and shortly after moved to Whanganui to be around my whanau.  

I enjoy working here and look forward to meeting new people and learning new skills everyday! I also enjoy spending time with family and friends. 

Theo Sterilisation

Hi I'm Theo, I've been working at the dentists since May 2022.
I was a patient here for quite a few years.
Every time I came in for an appointment, all the staff were so lovely and friendly.
So when I was given the opportunity to work here, I eagerly took the chance.
I enjoy working here, and helping the dental hygienists and dental assistants.

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