Melinda entered the world of health administration as a student of history at Canterbury University, taking on a part-time position that eventually led to her working in the field intermittently for over 10 years. 

Currently our receptionist on a Monday, Melinda brings a passion for women’s health and feminist values to her position, along with a wry sense of humour that is always appreciated at the beginning of the working week.

Melinda calls Ōtautahi home and especially enjoys getting out and hiking in the hills as well as venturing out onto the water on her family’s recently acquired sailboat. A mother of two, she is kept busy with the day-to-day of parenting, but takes any chance she can to follow her many and varied hobbies such as the fibre arts – knitting, spinning, sewing and weaving – as well as yoga, social dancing and reading.

In her weekly position at the receptionist desk, Melinda appreciates being able to soak in the intelligence, kindness, professionalism and supportiveness of the COGA team. She reports that patients come to her after their appointments saying they feel heard and taken seriously, which makes her job all the more satisfying and enriching.