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Meet Toni Rippey

CERTIFIED HAND THERAPIST WAIKATO

I’m Toni Rippey, an Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) based in the Waikato. I’ve spent over 20 years supporting people through recovery from hand and upper-limb injuries. I’m passionate about walking alongside people at all stages of their healing journey, whether they’re recovering from surgery, managing a long-term condition, or working towards getting back to the activities that matter most to them.

My hand therapy journey began in 2005 at the Middlemore Hospital Hand Unit, where I learned the importance of thoughtful, individualised care. In 2011, I became a Certified Hand Therapist, an internationally recognised qualification that reflects my commitment to high-quality, evidence-based practice.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work across a variety of clinical settings in New Zealand, London, and Australia, including time at New Zealand’s National Burns Centre, where I supported people recovering from complex burn and hand injuries. Working in multiple countries has given me the opportunity to learn from different communities and healthcare systems.  I’ve also worked closely with children and families within the community, providing paediatric hand therapy in a way that is supportive, gentle, and tailored to each child’s needs.

I’ve completed a Master’s degree in Hand Therapy, which has deepened my understanding of upper-limb function, anatomy, and rehabilitation. I work with people experiencing a wide range of hand and upper-limb conditions, including injuries, arthritis, overuse conditions, and post-surgical recovery, always with a focus on practical, meaningful outcomes.

I truly value every client, every story, and every recovery. My approach is collaborative and patient-centred, and I’m proud to be part of a community-focused practice where care, connection, and trust are at the heart of everything we do.

Kind words from patients

"I can’t recommend her highly enough."

After wrist surgery for carpel Tunnel, I was in constant pain and worried I’d never regain the strength in my hand. Toni was incredible, patient, encouraging, and deeply knowledgeable.

She supported me every step of the way, and thanks to her perseverance, care and tailored exercises she helped me regain movement, strength, and confidence. I can’t recommend her highly enough.

JOS

"She has fought for me where other therapists had given up and placed me in the “too hard” basket."

Living with a rare syndrome, I’ve experienced ongoing hand and wrist issues since I was 16 and have seen many hand therapists over the years. Finding Toni at Hand Therapy Studio was truly a breath of fresh air. She took the time to understand my condition and was willing to learn what my body needed, rather than taking a one size fits all approach.

Toni has always looked at my injuries with a knowledge base first, but also with compassion and empathy and I have the utmost respect for her. She has fought for me where other therapists had given up and placed me in the “too hard” basket. Through her expertise, advocacy, and genuine care, we’ve built a long term relationship based on trust. I wouldn’t choose anyone else.

AMIE

Come and see me today, I would love to help.