About Us

Who Are We?

Animal Health Centre is a Veterinary Clinic and Animal Hospital located in Lower Hutt. We provide top quality veterinary care in Lower Hutt City, the Hutt Valley and surrounding areas. We offer a full-service medical and surgical facility and comprehensive veterinary care to Lower Hutt's pets.

Friendly Personal Service

Our people are warm, personable and caring and we make a visit to the vet a positive experience. We get to know you and genuinely care about you and your pets.

We acknowledge that you are unique and we take time to find out who you are and what you need. We personalize our service to you by providing options that best fit your situation.

 

 2x

Understanding Staff

Our people all have pets so we understand the bond and concern when one of them is unwell. We do our best to help through clear explanations and providing options so you can choose the treatment plan that best suits your situation.

Experienced Vets

Our Veterinary Surgeons have each been qualified at least twenty five years, so you can rely on their extensive professional experience and expertise. Having more than one vet gives you choice and is also great when dealing with complex cases. If you like consistency we can also arrange for you to see the vet you prefer.

Practice History

Animal Health Centre was opened by Dr Simon Nelson in February 2000.

Our building was originally a Government Post Office which has been converted and modernized to meet the needs of a busy veterinary hospital.

We chose the location as being central and accessible, as well as having great parking for our clients.

From a staff of two at the outset Animal Health Centre has grown to a team of nine today, including three vets, four vet nurses and our administration team.

MEET THE TEAM

Our dedicated team is always here for your pets.

At our Veterinary Clinic, you’ll be fully supported with sound advice first and foremost. We know that helping our clients starts with providing a good understanding of health care issues and treatment options. With good advice and professional recommendations, you’ll be well equipped to make the best ongoing health care decisions for your pet.

Dr Simon Nelson

Dr Simon Nelson

Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Simon graduated from Massey University in 1994 with degrees in Biochemistry, Physiology and Veterinary…

Learn More
Dr Sue Gautrey

Dr Sue Gautrey

Senior Veterinary Surgeon

Sue qualified from Cambridge University, England, with a VetMB veterinary degree in 1995. The…

Learn More
Nicki

Nicki

Veterinary Nurse

Nicki graduated with her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from Otago Polytechnic in 2022. She…

Learn More
Maggie

Maggie

Veterinary Nurse

Maggie graduated with her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from Otago Polytechnic in 2023. Maggie…

Learn More
Alana

Alana

Receptionist

Alana has gained her certificate in Vet Nursing through Unitec and is currently studying…

Learn More
Virginia

Virginia

Veterinary Nurse / Practice Manager

Virginia graduated with a Veterinary Nursing certificate from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology in…

Learn More
Noah

Noah

Practice Mischief Maker

Originally from the SPCA, Noah ‘grew up’ in the Clinic due to that being…

Learn More
Virginia

Virginia

Veterinary Nurse / Practice Manager

Virginia graduated with a Veterinary Nursing certificate from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology in…

Learn More
Noah

Noah

Practice Mischief Maker

Originally from the SPCA, Noah ‘grew up’ in the Clinic due to that being…

Learn More
Alana

Alana

Receptionist

Alana has gained her certificate in Vet Nursing through Unitec and is currently studying…

Learn More
Dr Simon Nelson

Dr Simon Nelson

Lead Veterinary Surgeon

Simon graduated from Massey University in 1994 with degrees in Biochemistry, Physiology and Veterinary…

Learn More
Dr Sue Gautrey

Dr Sue Gautrey

Senior Veterinary Surgeon

Sue qualified from Cambridge University, England, with a VetMB veterinary degree in 1995. The…

Learn More
Nicki

Nicki

Veterinary Nurse

Nicki graduated with her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from Otago Polytechnic in 2022. She…

Learn More
Maggie

Maggie

Veterinary Nurse

Maggie graduated with her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from Otago Polytechnic in 2023. Maggie…

Learn More
Virginia

Virginia

Veterinary Nurse / Practice Manager

Virginia graduated with a Veterinary Nursing certificate from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology in…

Learn More