About Iris

Pilates instructor, scoliosis practitioner and researcher in pain and pain management.

Hi, I’m Iris. My work focuses on supporting people who want to move well and stay active throughout life, as well as those managing scoliosis or persistent pain.

I am a certified Pilates instructor trained in both Classical Pilates and STOTT PILATES®, and I have been working with clients in my private studio for over a decade. My sessions are calm, individualised and designed to help people build strength, mobility and confidence in movement.

Alongside my movement background, I have developed a strong professional interest in pain science and chronic pain management. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Pain and Pain Management from the University of Otago, where I continue my studies and research in this field.

My work integrates current understanding of pain through a biopsychosocial approach, recognising that persistent pain is influenced by many factors including the nervous system, movement habits, beliefs, and life experience.

Over the years I have undertaken specialised training with the Neuro Orthopaedic Institute (NOI Group) in Australia and have published writing on pain and pain acceptance. I was also invited to present my work at the New Zealand Pain Society Conference.

Scoliosis Management

More than ten years ago I trained in the Schroth Method, a specialised exercise approach for scoliosis. Since then I have worked with both young people and adults living with scoliosis, helping them understand their condition and learn exercises that support spinal alignment and long-term self-management.

I have experience working with adolescents navigating scoliosis during their teenage years as well as adults managing scoliosis later in life. My work has included supporting clients with bracing, spinal fusion and Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT).

My Approach

Across all areas of my work, my goal is to provide thoughtful, individual support that helps people understand their bodies and feel confident in how they move.

A key element of my work is mindful movement. Pilates and scoliosis exercises offer an opportunity to develop greater awareness of posture, breathing and movement patterns. This gentle attention to how the body moves often helps clients reconnect with their bodies, move with greater ease and develop confidence in everyday activities.

Whether through Pilates for healthy ageing, scoliosis-specific exercises, or guidance in managing chronic pain, the focus is always on helping people move comfortably, maintain independence, and stay engaged in the activities that matter to them.