About Us
Physio By Design was founded by Chris Johns in 2010 after returning from overseas.
Having been established for more than a decade, we’ve built a reputation on delivering results that truly speak for themselves.
Meet Our Crew
Chris Johns
Born and bred in Auckland, Chris completed his BHSc (Physiotherapy) at AUT.
Chris has a huge passion for the biomechanics of the human body and correcting the imbalances created by incorrect loading, which stresses the body.
Chris has extensive knowledge and training in Strength and conditioning, as well as endurance training, and uses this to tailor individual rehabilitation programmes specific to each client’s needs.
Chris enjoys his time working with various representative sports teams, which over the years have included the NZ Breakers, Auckland Huskies, Auckland Tuatara Basketball, AFLNZ Medical Director, Rosmini Premier Basketball team, and Netball North Harbour.
When he is not busy helping his clients, Chris enjoys swimming, biking, running, strength training, golf, and long-distance triathlons.
Leah Brennan
Born and raised in Ireland, after graduating with a physiotherapy degree from University College Dublin in 2014, Leah decided to head to NZ with a group of physio friends.
She started work at PhysioByDesign in January 2015 and worked here until halfway through 2018 when she returned to Ireland “for good”.... fast forward years, and here she is back again in New Zealand and working at PhysioByDesign.
While back in Ireland, Leah worked in Dublin for DBC Physiotherapy at the Institute of Sport, UCD. She worked closely with some of Ireland’s most experienced neck and back rehabilitation specialists, consultants and neurosurgeons.
Leah has experience rehabbing all levels of athletes, from the enthusiastic to the elite, and many in between. She has a special interest in post-operative rehab and enjoys helping people get back to 100% by improving their own knowledge of their body and how it functions.
Paige Ankers
Originating from England, Paige has called Auckland home for most of her life. Graduating from AUT with a BHSc (Physiotherapy) in 2019, she has been a valued member of the Physio by Design team ever since.
Paige is an experienced physiotherapist with a lifelong passion for horses and sport. She has ridden for most of her life, volunteers with her local Riding for the Disabled group, and grew up playing competitive football. Paige is currently furthering her expertise through a postgraduate program in Veterinary Physiotherapy with the University of Liverpool.
She takes a patient-centred and collaborative approach to treatment, focusing on understanding each person’s goals and helping them return to the activities that matter most to them. Paige is dedicated to supporting her clients through every stage of their recovery, empowering them to move with confidence and get the most out of life.
Joe Gimm
With a background in marketing and strength and conditioning, Joe spent several years in the fitness industry before pursuing physiotherapy. Joe graduated from AUT with a clear distinction in 2022.
Combining over 10 years of coaching experience with expertise in weightlifting and gymnastics, Joe takes a movement-based approach to rehabilitation. He’s passionate about helping clients overcome pain, restore function, and build long-term strength through individualised exercise therapy.
A Korean Kiwi who grew up in Christchurch, Joe played football throughout his youth and later competed in CrossFit at the Regional level for a few years. Most recently, he worked with the Junior Tall Blacks, contributing to the team’s second-place finish at the 2024 FIBA U18 Asia Cup and fourth place at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup.
Charlotte Hardy
After spending a year abroad in Australia, Charlotte returned to New Zealand to complete her Bachelor of Health Science (Physiotherapy) at AUT, graduating in 2024. With her newfound qualifications, she has since embarked on her professional journey at Physio By Design, where she is excited to put her knowledge and skills into practice.
Charlotte brings with her a strong sporting background, having played netball and water polo at competitive levels.
In her free time, she enjoys a variety of physical activities, including swimming, pilates, and going to the gym, all of which contribute to her holistic approach to health and fitness.
Driven by a genuine passion for helping others, Charlotte is dedicated to working closely with her clients to understand their unique needs and challenges.
She takes a personalised approach to each treatment plan, ensuring that it aligns with the individual goals and lifestyle of every person she works with. Her commitment to tailored care ensures that clients feel supported and empowered as they work toward achieving their goals.
Sarah Johns
Sarah has always been part of the PBD Team since her husband Chris started the practice in 2010.
She officially joined the office as the Practice Manager in 2022.
Sarah has a background in Human Resources and Administrative Management
She has worked in a number of small to large organisations in a variety of industries, including hospitality, professional services and security.
Our physiotherapists are certified in the Mulligan Concept — a specialised, internationally recognised approach that combines hands-on techniques with active movement. Certification requires rigorous training and assessment, ensuring a high level of clinical skill and precision.
This method is designed to reduce pain quickly, improve mobility, and restore normal movement patterns in a safe and effective way.
For you, that means faster relief, better results, and treatment that helps you move with confidence again.
