Pen Tyson

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy – Auckland University of Technology, 2010
• Postgraduate Western Acupuncture
• Masters of Clinical Health Practice (Breathing Rehabilitation and Performance, Pain Mechanisms, Biomechanics)
• Clinical Pilates Instructor (Reformer, Mat, Ladder Barrel, Chair, Trapeze Table)
• BOOST, PINC & STEEL Cancer Rehabilitation Physiotherapist
• Vocational & Occupational Physiotherapist – Return-to-Work Programmes

Penelope Tyson was born and bred in Tolaga Bay, Gisborne, growing up on a sheep, beef, and cropping farm. A rural upbringing gave her a deep respect for hard work, resilient bodies, and the outdoors — and it’s where her love of movement, strength, and practical problem-solving began.

Clinically, Pen blends hands-on physiotherapy, Western acupuncture, and strength-based rehabilitation with Clinical Pilates. She loves the structure Pilates provides but is equally passionate about progressive strength work and functional retraining — because bodies are built to be loaded, challenged, and trusted again.

What Pen loves most about physiotherapy is the moment the switch flips. When someone walks in saying, “I can’t,” and weeks later catches themselves saying, “I didn’t even think about it — I just did it.” That moment never gets old.

Pen is a strong believer in old-school fundamentals done well: thorough assessment, quality movement, consistency, and honest conversations. There is no magic wand in physiotherapy. But there is powerful change in showing up, doing the basics properly, and steadily rebuilding a person’s capacity.

Outside the clinic, Pen practises what she teaches. She loves strength training, Pilates, and being outdoors. You’ll often find her snow skiing in winter, hiking whenever she can, and exploring with her young family. She is committed to keeping her own body robust for the long game and is always keen to hear what should be on her South Island hiking and exploring bucket list.

At You First Physio, Pen is grateful to work within a team that genuinely values people, best practice, and professional growth. The team cares deeply about outcomes — not just short-term pain relief, but long-term change.

If you are seeing Pen, her goal is simple: to help you move better, feel stronger, and trust your body again.