Meet Our Team

Helen Mielnik DVN, CVN

I have worked at vets@st.clair since 2002, I graduated from Otago Polytechnic as a CVN in 1999 and then went back to do my Diploma, I graduated from this in 2012.

My job as a veterinary nurse is varied and I enjoy talking to the clients and developing a relationship with them and their pets.

When I'm not at work I love getting out and about with my two dogs and enjoying the wonderful walking tracks Dunedin has to offer.

Sarah Stephen BVSc

My name is Sarah and I am a proud Dunedin local having grown up here until leaving for university. I worked in Taupo for a few years and then locumed in the UK for 3 years amongst travel in Devon, Wales and Yorkshire as well as an Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh Vet School, Aberdeenshire and Shetland Islands in Scotland.

I have always been a companion animal vet and my passions include ultrasound and cardiology where I am currently working on a Cardiology Certificate. I also enjoy everything from medicine, preventative care to surgery and believe in providing the best opportunity for your animal to have a happy and thriving life.

My hobbies include anything outdoors such as trail running, tramping, mountain biking, camping, netball and most sports.

After locuming in Dunedin for over a year I am grateful to be in one place at vets@st.clair, and happy to be back in the best city working alongside Helen and Kristin. My favourite thing is a coffee on a #dunnerstunner day at St Clair beach, spending time with my friends and family in Dunedin.

Kristin Townsend BVSc, BSc

Hi there! I am your Thursday vet and I am loving getting to know the vets@st.clair community. I graduated from Massey University as a vet back in 2009 and moved to Dunedin to make it my home (someone told me you had to be here 20 years before being considered a local so I am nearly there!). I am a pet lover myself and have a collection of dogs and cats, as well as 2 lovely Wiltshire sheep at home, so I really understand the deep bond owners have with their furry companions and hope to help enhance that through providing great healthcare and support to you. I am also the proud mum (read taxi) to my two boys who keep me busy at all times! We think Dunedin is New Zealand’s best kept secret and just love getting out and about to enjoy all it has to offer whenever we do get a spare moment.