Our Team
John Dawson
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, John has lived in Nelson for over 25 years and is the proud father of two daughters. His journey into chiropractic began after a severe wrestling injury in his late teens, where he discovered a natural approach to health and healing that inspired his career.
John is a long-standing member of the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association and is currently completing a Wellness Certification Program endorsed by the International Chiropractic Association. He has a strong passion for lifestyle-based health and enjoys helping people improve their wellbeing through positive choices in movement, nutrition, and mindset.
Chiropractor/Co-Director
Hayden Thomas
Born and raised in sunny Nelson, Hayden is passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of the local community while raising three daughters here. Early exposure to chiropractic care inspired Hayden to pursue a career helping people of all ages reach their optimal potential.
Hayden holds a Bachelor of Science in Physiology from the University of Auckland and a chiropractic degree from the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, with further training in sports chiropractic in San Francisco. After practising throughout New Zealand and overseas, Hayden returned to Nelson to co-found Equilibrium and remains actively involved in professional leadership at both national and international levels.
Chiropractor/Co-Director
Peter’s chiropractic journey began as a patient, and he quickly became a strong advocate for the benefits of chiropractic care. In 1984, Peter resigned from his role as Head Chemist at Golden Bay Cement and moved to Melbourne with his young family to undertake a five-year chiropractic degree, at a time when training was not available in New Zealand.
After completing his degree in 1988, Peter returned to Nelson where he has practised ever since in both group and solo settings. He and Helen have three sons and two grandchildren living in London. Joining the Equilibrium team has allowed Peter the freedom to visit family overseas, knowing his patients continue to receive excellent care while he is away.
ChiropractorPeter Hillier
Tom is a physiotherapist with a special interest in neurological rehabilitation. Inspired by his own sporting injuries and early exposure to physiotherapy, he developed a strong passion for helping people achieve their health goals.
Tom has experience working across hospital, community, and private rehabilitation settings in New Zealand and Australia. He treats a wide range of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, with particular expertise in balance, dizziness, and neurological disorders. Tom takes a holistic approach, combining hands-on care with exercise-based rehabilitation to support long-term health and independence.
PhysiotherapistTom Bywater
Charlie-Rose
Charlie-Rose is the friendly face at reception at Equilibrium. Born in Nelson and raised in Westport, she has called Nelson home since 2020. She spent four years working in the beauty industry before moving into the chiropractic and wellness field, making it a natural fit for her skills and passion.
Charlie-Rose enjoys creating welcoming, organised spaces and supporting clients with warmth, professionalism, and a genuine focus on health and wellbeing.
Front Desk/Administration
Eileen
Eileen has previously worked at the former Loveday Clinic and more recently at a physiotherapy practice, gaining valuable experience in supporting clients’ health and wellbeing. She brings her energy and passion to serving our wonderful clients. Outside of work, Eileen enjoys a variety of interests, including competing in triathlons, teaching swimming, practicing yoga, gardening, and exploring her love of cooking.
Front DeskElise provides front desk support at Equilibrium, helping the team run smoothly and ensuring clients feel welcome. She has previous experience working in chiropractic clinics, bringing valuable knowledge and a friendly, professional approach to the role. Elise enjoys connecting with clients, creating a positive clinic environment, and making every visit a pleasant experience.
Front Desk CasualElise
Amy supports Charlie-Rose and Eileen on reception, helping provide flexibility for the team. She comes full circle back to being a chiropractic assistant, and long-time patients of Peter Hillier may recognize her friendly smile. With a background in Health and Fitness, including a degree from the University of Toronto and experience assisting clients at Riverside Pool, Amy is passionate about maintaining fitness and mobility at all ages. She enjoys hiking, dog walking, swimming, yoga, and pottery, and looks forward to connecting with clients and colleagues at Equilibrium.
Front Desk Casual