STRIDE Orthopaedics are a team of innovative individuals who strive for the best quality patient care. We are a blend of medical and business professionals who seamlessly work together.
Meet our team members below:
Dr Ramez Ailabouni
Director - Orthopaedic Surgeon
Ramez is of Christian Palestinian/Jordanian descent (Arabic) and was born in the United Arab Emirates. He moved to Dunedin, New Zealand when he was twelve and is proud to be a Kiwi.
He has now been a doctor for over thirteen years with orthopaedics accounting for the past decade. Dr Ailabouni undertook his Undergraduate medical training through the University of Otago, having gained entry directly from Health Sciences.
He completed the New Zealand Orthopaedic Training Programme and obtained a fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2016. Ramez then spent a further two years completing subspecialty fellowship training.
Amelia Howard-Hill
Director - Nurse Practitioner
Amelia is New Zealand born and bred. She hails from the mighty Manawatu, having grown up on a Deer farm near Feilding (15 x voted New Zealand's most beautiful town). Amelia has over fifteen years of nursing experience. Amelia is highly regarded in both her clinical and non-clinical roles.
Her background is primarily around patients receiving surgery (perioperative care) and she has worked in a variety of roles within this speciality area. Amelia has eight years of specific experience as a Registered Nurse First Surgical Assistance (RNFSA) and five years as a Nurse Practitioner.
She has been working in orthopaedics for over ten years. Amelia has assisted many highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons, focussing on joint replacement, shoulder, and spine surgery.
Courtney Ford
Registered Nurse
Courtney is a registered nurse with 10 years of experience working in acute care. She has a passion for continued education and teaching. She has continued her post-graduate education through the University of Otago and has also completed a certificate in adult and tertiary education. Courtney provides our clients with patient-focused pre-operative education and post-operative care ensuring a smooth and supported patient journey.
When not at work or busy studying, Courtney spends time hiking, at the gym or spending time with her family.
Laura Harris
Registered Nurse
Laura joined STRIDE in 2023 from stunning Southland. Having previously worked in Litigation and Criminal Law for the past 11 years. In her spare time Laura enjoys fishing, paddleboarding, baking, hiking with her German Shepherd and spending time with her family.
Andrew Welch
Office Administrator
Andrew has been working all over New Zealand and Australia in tourism and hospitality roles prior to the pandemic. He is currently working towards an accounting qualification and lives with his wife Cassie and their dog Darcy. He enjoys travelling, meeting new people, playing music in several local bands, and learning to paint.