Caring for Pets Since 1984

Kohimarama Veterinary Clinic is a privately owned practice, proudly run by Russell Tucker and his wife Joanne for over 42 years.

Our mission is to provide exceptional veterinary care to both pets and their owners in the local community.

Why trust us?

We offer a comprehensive range of services in a welcoming environment, combining experience with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. Our team stays up to date with ongoing education to ensure the highest standard of care.

Leading Dentistry expert

In addition to general veterinary services, Russell is a leading expert in veterinary dentistry, providing referral dental care to practices across New Zealand. He also works with NZ Police, NZ Guide Dogs, and multiple zoos, treating animals from tiny primates to big cats.

Russell Tucker

Practice Owner, Veterinarian, Veterinary Dental Specialist

  • Russell and his wife Joanne have proudly owned Kohimarama Veterinary Clinic since 1984. He graduated from Massey University in 1976 and began his career as a dairy cow veterinarian in the Waikato, where he worked for four and a half years.

    His passion for canine and feline medicine and surgery developed while practicing in Cape Town, South Africa, before returning to New Zealand to establish Kohimarama Veterinary Clinic.

  • Committed to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine, Russell has attended numerous continuing education courses to expand his knowledge.

    He is a Member of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists and a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College. As a Veterinary Dentist, he is registered with both the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Board of Veterinary Specialties.

  • Promote training and/or the dental website??

Dr Sam Barnes

Veterinarian, DVM

  • Originally from Auckland, Sam has lived in Sydney, the Cayman Islands, and Minnesota, USA. She earned her undergraduate degrees in Auckland and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from St. Matthew’s University, completing her clinical training at the University of Minnesota.

  • Sam is a strong advocate for preventative medicine and is committed to supporting pets throughout all life stages—from playful puppies and kittens to senior pets in their golden years.

  • When she’s not caring for animals, Sam enjoys hiking, bird photography, and exploring new places through travel.

Dr Xenia

Veterinarian

  • Xenia graduated from the University of the Philippines and completed her veterinary registration in New Zealand in 2006. She spent several years working in the red meat industry before joining Kohimarama Vet Clinic in October 2024.

  • She and her family enjoy living on a lifestyle block in Northland, where they share their home with two adorable dogs: Jackie, a sweet Golden Labrador, and Peanut, a lovable Yorkie-Bichon mix with a big personality who believes she's a Labrador too!

  • When she's not at the clinic, Xenia loves spending time with her family and helping her husband on the farm.

  • Xenia is passionate about helping pets feel their best and understands how much a compassionate vet can mean to both pets and their owners. She looks forward to meeting you and your furry friends and feels honoured to be part of your experience at Kohimarama Vet Clinic.

Jo

Senior Veterinary Nurse

  • Jo qualified as a veterinary nurse in the UK in 2003 and began her career at a first-opinion and orthopaedic referral centre in Wales. After moving to New Zealand in 2006, she joined the Kohi team full-time.

  • Jo has explored various areas of veterinary care, including working with a charity organisation and taking time away to focus on motherhood.

  • Now working part-time, Jo remains dedicated to her passion for vet nursing, balancing her career alongside family life. She loves all aspects of her role and believes in treating every patient with the same care and respect she would expect as a patient herself.

Payal Veterinary Nurse

Veterinary Nurse

  • Born and raised in the beautiful islands of Fiji, she graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from Fiji National University and spent two years working as a Veterinary Intern at SPCA.

  • In 2022, she moved to New Zealand and joined the Kohimarama Veterinary Clinic as a Veterinary Nurse. She enjoys all aspects of small animal practice and finds it incredibly rewarding to see pets return home healthy and happy.

  • Outside of work, she loves painting, discovering new food spots, and hiking scenic trails.

Stephanie

Practice Manager

  • Stephanie has been part of the clinic since 2010 and became Practice Manager in 2018. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (2013) and a Graduate Diploma in Business (2016).

  • A lifelong animal lover, she enjoys building relationships with clients and their pets.

  • Proud to be part of a clinic that has provided top-quality pet care to the community for over 42 years.

Extraordinary care from the best local vet clinic. Best care, gentle understanding of special needs. Immaculately clean premises and organised efficient and caring staff. Service has been reliable for our various pets' needs for over 29 years.

SHARON CROSS