NEXTSTEP WHAKATANE
Bringing Exercise Physiology to the EBOP
About Us
Welcome to NextStepNZ Whakatane—your local hub for health, recovery, and empowerment in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
We’re more than a gym; we’re a community-driven space designed to help you take your next step, no matter where you’re starting from. Nestled in the heart of Whakatane, we’re proud to bring our holistic exercise and rehabilitation centre to this vibrant region.
Our journey began with a mission to make movement accessible to everyone. Inspired by the global NextStep franchise and our flagship centre in Mount Maunganui, we’ve created a facility that blends world-class equipment with a deep commitment to inclusion. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, living with a neurological condition, or simply wanting to build strength and confidence, NextStepNZ Whakatane is here to support you every step of the way.
Our fully accessible gym is equipped with state-of-the-art tools tailored for all abilities—from cardio zones to specialised strength and rehabilitation equipment. Our passionate team of exercise physiologists work closely with you to design personalised programs that fit your goals, whether big or small. We’re not just about physical progress; we’re about celebrating every milestone and building a stronger, more connected you.
Book your Free Intro session here!
Services
At NextStepNZ Whakatane, we offer more than just a workout space. Our services include:
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Small group classes - designed to improve specific health conditions in a group environment
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1 on 1 coaching - personal training service aimed at maximizing your workout
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Rehabilitation coaching - 1 on 1 coaching focused on rehabilitation from an injury or surgery
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Exercise Physiology - coaching based on improving health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes
Who We Help
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Disabilities - We have a fully accessible gym so everyone has something they can do no matter what their mobility!
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Health conditions - Our exercise physiologists are trained to look after people with numerous health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and more!
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Neurological conditions - Our unique activity based therapy program and exercise physiologists are there to support people with spinal cord injuries, stroke, MS/Parkinsons disease and more!
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Injuries and surgeries - Our team of exercise physiologists are trained to support long term injuries and post surgery recovery ensuring you get the best rehabilitation possible!
Our Team
SYLVAIN OGGIER
Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Swiss and 30 years old, I grew up in the heart of the Valais mountains within a family of 6 children, an environment that forged my team spirit, adaptability and absolute passion for movement.
From the Alpine peaks where I spent years climbing, ski touring and ice climbing, my journey led me to the canton de Vaud to earn my degree in Adated Physical Activitiy (APA) in Lausanne. As an APA specialist, I am dedicated to helping people rediscover their physical potential and regain autonomy through tailored movement.
A keen traveler since childhood, I fell in love with New Zealand in 2024. Today, I am thrilled to settle down in Whakatane as part of the NextStep team. Here, I succefully combine my professional calling in rehabilitation with my desire for marine adrenaline, spending my free time surfing, diving and kitesurfing.
Fun facts:
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Traded the Swiss mountains for the ocean in New Zealand
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Since Kiwis often struggle to prounonce Sylvain, usually turning in to “Silver”, I’ve adopted a local rule: “Just call me Syl...and everything will be Good as Gold”!
Qualifications:
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Master of Sciences in Human Movement and Sports Sciences (Option Physical Adapted Activity, University of Lausanne, Switzerland)
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Bachelor of Science in Sport Sciences and Motor Control (Option Health-Research and Performance, University of Fribourg, Switzerland)
GROUP CLASSES
Strength & Balance
Mondays 11.00am - 12.00pm &
Thursdays 12.00pm - 1.00pm
Strength & balance is a fun and supportive class which challenges you to increase your movement and confidence. Classes are designed to improve balance, coordination and strength, all of which will positively impact your daily function and movement.
Classes are safe and suitable for all levels.
Parkinsons Class
Thursdays 11.00am - 12.00pm
Live a happier, stronger, more fulfilling life by discovering how to LIVE BRAVE, and live your best life with Parkinson’s.
Improve your situation, to move better, think better, look better, build your confidence, regain control, build your self-belief and ultimately, your chance to slow your Parkinson’s down
To book in please contact the team.
Located at 43 Kakahoroa Drive, our Whakatane branch is a welcoming space where community meets purpose. We’re here to inspire, empower, and walk alongside you—whether it’s your first step toward recovery or your next leap toward a healthier life.
Ready to join us? Contact whakatane@nextstepnz.com or call 0272471011
Let’s take the next step together in Whakatane.
CONTACT US
FOLLOW US
Phone: 0272471011
Bookings: whakatane@nextstepnz.com
Email Chris: whakatane@nextstepnz.com
Address: 43 Kakahoroa Drive, Whakatane, 3120
GYM HOURS
Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm