FOUNDER

Sue has a background in physiotherapy, is the founder of Altus Pacific Aid and coordinates the work of the organisation. She began working with children with cerebral palsy in India in 2002, travelling there twice a year for spend a few weeks to assess, train and provide basic equipment. Since 2006 Sue has volunteered in the Pacific Islands. She worked for 12 years at a special school and then with a private provider of therapy and related services. Sue is now 'retired' and is also on the management team.

Paul is an accountant and worked for many years at a chartered accountancy firm in Auckland City. He now works for consulting chemists and has an accountancy firm, Bonafide Accounting Ltd, with Wayne Freeman. Paul specialises in small business accounting, so his expertise is invaluable in watching over and managing Altus Pacific Aid's financial affairs.

Michelle was the Manager of an early childhood centre in Epsom, Auckland, for many years, retiring early in 2023. The experience managing her own business gave her a wealth of knowledge which she has brought to her role as a trustee for Altus Pacific Aid.

Melanie has a background in teaching and overseas mission work. She brings ideas and insights that broaden our horizons.

Wayne is chairman of the board. He has a background in accounting and was manager of Agfa New Zealand and then Wycliffe NZ for a number of years. Wayne currently works as an accountant. He has visited many developing countries in past years and has an understanding of various cultures as a result.

Charlotte is a physiotherapist who currently works in a special school in Dunedin, while bringing up two young boys. She took at Carer to Carer course in Samoa in 2024 and is committed to see the lives of children with disabilities and their familiies enhanced though the skills and knowledge that we can pass on to them.

Shamus is an orthotist who has worked in research and development for much of his working life. He has skills in other areas, such as in power and manual wheelchair setups and maintenance. Shamus and his wife Sue, a wheelchair therapist, have worked in a number of Pacific Islands with Altus Pacific Aid for around 16 years.

Sue, an occupational therapist, oversees the wheelchair service that Altus Pacific Aid provides. Sue has extensive experience with wheelchairs and seating. She brings her passion to see people sitting well in wheelchairs that match their needs, to her work with us. Sue is employed by Specialist Rehab Services in Auckland.

Amy is a physiotherapist who lives in Christchurch, working in her business, Liberty Pelvic Health Physio. Amy coordinates Altus Pacific Aid volunteers who work in Vanuatu, mainly with children with cerebral palsy.

Catherine White is a physiotherapist, employed at Mount Richmond Specialist School in Auckland. Catherine volunteers in Tonga, working with organisations providing support for children with disabilities.

Kathy is a physiotherapist who has worked for many years with people with spinal cord injuries (paraplegics and tetraplegics). Kathy heads the spinal cord injury team of therapists and other health professionals working in the Pacific Islands with Altus Pacific Aid. She works in Christchurch for Laura Fergusson.