About Us
At Wanganui Eyecare, we believe eye care is about more than simply checking your prescription. As an independent, locally owned practice, we take the time to understand you, your vision and your individual needs. We are here to help you see your best and look after your eyes for years to come.
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Independent Practice
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Locally Owned
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Experienced Team
Meet our Optometrists
Our optometrists bring together clinical experience, advanced technology and a genuine commitment to providing personalised eye care. We take the time to listen, understand your visual needs and provide recommendations suited to you - not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Kerry Bennett
Optometrist & Director
John Boyle
Optometrist & Director
Priyanka Fernandes
Optometrist
Asumi Yamaguchi
Optometrist
Meet Our Optical Team
Choosing the right eyewear is about more than finding a frame you like. From choosing the right frames to finding lenses that meet your visual needs, our team is here to make the process easy and enjoyable.
Michelle Burnett
Dispensing Optician
Jessica Alder
Trainee Dispensing Optician
Jessica Alder
Trainee Dispensing Optician
Rebekah Mauchline
Optical Consultant
Our History
Caring for Wanganui since 1643
Wanganui Eyecare has been providing eyecare for the local community for more than 60 years. Our story dates back to 1963, when optometrist Mike Webber returned to Whanganui and took over an established practice in Ridgway Street.
Over the years, the practice grew, welcomed new optometrists and later moved to 211 Wicksteed Street, where we remain today. Now led by directors Kerry Bennett and John Boyle, Wanganui Eyecare continues to care for generations of local families.
1963
Where it began
Where it began
Mike Webber returns to Whanganui and takes over an established optometry practice in Ridgway Street.
1983
Webber & Hardey
Webber & Hardey
Ross Hardey joins Mike, with the practice trading as Webber & Hardey Optometrists by 1983.
1986
John Mellsop joins
John Mellsop joins
John Mellsop begins what would become 39 years with Wanganui Eyecare
c. 1986
Wicksteed St
Wicksteed St
The practice moves to 211 Wicksteed Street, where Wanganui Eyecare remains today.
2004
Kerry Bennett
Kerry Bennett
Kerry Bennett joins Wanganui Eyecare, bringing experience from the UK and Jamaica and becomes a director of the practice.
2019
John Boyle
John Boyle
After beginning his career in Whanganui as a new graduate, John Boyle becomes a director of Wanganui Eyecare, helping lead the practice into its next chapter.
Today
Looking ahead
Looking ahead
More than 60 years on, Wanganui Eyecare continues to provide eyecare for generations of local families from our home in Wicksteed Street.
What Matters to Our Team
Personalised Approach
Every person is different. We take the time to understand your vision, lifestyle and individual needs before recommending the right options for you.
Comprehensive Eye Care
We combine clinical experience, modern technology and a thorough approach to provide care that looks at both your vision and your eye health.
Long-term Relationships
We want to get to know our patients, not just their prescription. Our aim is to support you and your family through every stage of vision.
Our Community
As a local independent practice, we are proud to care for people and families throughout Whanganui and the surrounding region.
What Matters to Us
Personalised Care
Every person is different. We take the time to understand your vision, lifestyle and individual needs before recommending the right options for you.
Thorough Eye Care
We believe an eye examination should be more than simply checking whether you need glasses. We take a comprehensive approach to your vision and eye health.
Modern Expertise
Optometry continues to evolve. We combine our experience with modern technology and current knowledge to provide informed, comprehensive care.
Long-term Relationships
We want to get to know our patients, not just their prescription. Our aim is to be there for you and your family through every stage of life.
Our Community
As a local independent practice, we are proud to care for people and families throughout Wanganui and the surrounding region.
Here for the long term
Your vision needs can change throughout life, and having a team who knows your history can make a real difference. From routine eye examinations and prescription changes through to more specialised eye care, we’re here to support you at every stage.
Come and see us,
we'd love to meet you
Whether you have a question about your eye health, want to book an appointment, or just want to know more about our services — we're here and happy to help.