Paul Hey: Optometrist

Originally from Southport in the North West of England, Paul trained at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology where he later worked as a clinical instructor. Paul practiced optometry in the UK for 5 years before emigrating to New Zealand in 1990. He has worked in the Sydenham practice ever since (actually in the same exam room!) and became co-owner of Hey Optometrists in 1996. In addition to his position as an optometrist, where he has an interest in contact lenses and low vision work, Paul is the practice’s frame buyer and particularly enjoys his role in selecting the styles and ranges that are available in the practice. Outside work, Paul loves travelling, photography and is a big sports fan. With season tickets to Canterbury rugby, he enjoys supporting both the Crusaders and the All Blacks, but his biggest sporting passion is following F1 motor racing.

Debra Hey: Optometrist

Having been born in Twickenham, maybe it was inevitable that Debra would eventually move half way round the world to find a place where really good rugby is played. Also trained in Manchester, Debra has been practicing as an optometrist since 1985 and worked in a variety of UK practices before moving to Christchurch in 1990. After 6 years working in Riccarton, she became co owner of Hey Optometrists in 1996. With great organizational skills and a love of figures, Debra looks after the management and financial aspects of the business, as well as performing her optometric duties, where she has a keen interest in children's vision. When she isn’t working, Debra enjoys travel, reading, Sudoku and is a regular supporter at Canterbury’s home rugby games, having been a season ticket holder since the epic 2002 season.

Alison Appleyard: Optometrist

Having spent her formative years in Yorkshire in the UK, Alison originally trained as a dispensing optician before qualifying as an optometrist in 1995, having gained her optometry degree at Bradford University. Alison practiced as an optometrist in the UK before moving to New Zealand in 2002. Having settled in Christchurch, she worked in several local optometry practices before joining the Hey Optometrists team in March 2010. Besides her considerable optometric experience, Alison's friendly, cheerful, easy going nature, make her a great asset to the practice. Balancing part-time work as an optometrist with being a mum to her two young children, Alison still manages to produce some great baking (especially chocolate brownies) and, when she finds the time, enjoys good food and wine and tramping.

Rob: Optical Technician

Born in Christchurch, Rob has worked in the optical industry since 1986. Originally trained at the Standard Optical Company’s Christchurch laboratory, Rob worked in Christchurch as an optical technician for local and international lens manufacturers before Hey Optometrists were fortunate to acquire his services in 2000. With a can do attitude, his extensive experience and technical knowledge of lenses, talent for repairing frames and ability to fix just about anything, Rob is a key member of the Hey Optometrists team. In addition to spending time with his wife and children, Rob enjoys outdoor sports and activities including mountain biking, fishing and diving.

Jacqui: Receptionist / Optical Assistant

Originally from North Canterbury, Jacqui gained experience in both hospitality and retail before becoming the newest and youngest member of the Hey Optometrists team in April 2012. With her love of fashion and sense of style, Jacqui loves helping people choose great looking frames and sunglasses. Bubbly, enthusiastic  and hard working, Jacqui has fitted into her new position very quickly and is already an important part of the team. When she isn't working, Jacqui enjoys cooking, movies and good music, especially David Bowie!

Kirsty: Receptionist / Optical Assistant

Born and educated in Christchurch, Kirsty spent some time studying at Canterbury University and working in the hospitality industry, before joining the Hey Optometrists team in July 2010. Friendly, outgoing and hard working, with a strong customer service background, good computer skills and product knowledge, Kirsty combines front line reception and administration work with helping people find the perfect frame. She also provides valuable assistance to our optometrists by conducting visual field tests and taking retinal photos. Kirsty is an animal lover and enjoys music, watching movies and reading a good book whilst having a quiet glass of wine.

Melissa: Administration

Originally from Ashburton, Melissa became Hey Optometrists first new employee when she joined the practice in 1996. An integral part of the original team, Melissa gained extensive experience in the industry and was training to be a dispensing optician when she took a career break in 2005 to have a family. In April 2009 we were delighted to welcome Melissa back to the team on a part time basis. Her unflappable nature, endless patience and sense of humour are among the many attributes that make Melissa a great asset to the business. Besides being a mum, Melissa enjoys cooking and reading and is another keen Crusaders supporter.