Management and Client Services

• Richard Campbell

  Director/CEO

  Richard has worked in New Zealand’s primary industries since 1987, the vast majority of that time being spent in the animal health sector and has been involved in veterinary diagnostics since 2008. The undoubted highlight has been the formation of SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ which demonstrates the importance he places on there being a New Zealand owned and focused presence in the market.

  “We have gathered an incredible group of individuals who really care about the work they do. We often talk about the importance of seeing each and every blood tube as representing someone’s much loved pet, the means of their livelihood or an investment in a performance animal.”

  Richard has a strong motivation to grow both the business of VetPath NZ and that of their veterinary clients. This is seen in the establishment of the BVD Bulk Milk Monitoring programme. His involvement in the Recognised Agency, Veritag, was the key to seeing the veterinary profession included in the Mycoplasma bovis eradication programme. In addition to generating business for vet practices and /VetPath NZ this has brought about a renewed and strengthened relationship between the profession and MPI. This is now serving as a springboard into other programmes around disease readiness and response.

  His approach is best described as “can do” and he is constantly seeking and is open to ideas on how to create mutually beneficial opportunities.

• Rae Pearson

  Chief Operating Officer

  Rae Pearson leads VetPath NZ with a dedication to excellence and innovation. Holding a Bachelor of Health Science, she began her career as a microbiologist at Massey University, contributing to the growth of NZVP. Rae gained extensive experience across laboratory departments and managed numerous research projects before advancing to Laboratory and R&D Manager, where she developed serology and molecular testing methods.

  In 2015, Rae joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ to establish and manage the Hamilton-based veterinary diagnostic lab. Under her leadership, it has become a world-class facility, delivering comprehensive diagnostic services to veterinary practices across New Zealand. Committed to continuous professional development, Rae earned an MBA from Massey University, enhancing her strategic and business expertise. Her transparent and people-first leadership style fosters a supportive and empowering work environment.

  Recognised for her contributions, Rae received the Waikato Chamber of Commerce’s Emerging Leader award in 2021. Her vision for VetPath NZ centres on growth and innovation to keep the lab at the cutting edge of veterinary diagnostics.

  Outside of work, Rae values personal growth and enjoys quality time with family and friends.

• Tim Adam

  Technical Manager

  Tim is an experienced biochemistry technician who joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ as one of the original staff members that helped to set up the diagnostic laboratory. Prior to this he worked in hospital laboratories and NZVP, in its early days. Tim has extensive IT knowledge and is our go-to person for computer and software matters.

  In his free time, Tim enjoys fishing and watching the horse races.

• Natasha Pledger

  Accountant

  Natasha’s journey with the SVS group began in 2018, and by 2022, she joined the SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and her Chartered Accountancy qualification achieved in 2023, Natasha combines keen analytical skills with a dedication to accuracy, playing a key role in team projects and helping organise social events.

• Tania Omundsen

  Specimen Reception

  Tania joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in September 2020, after spending 7 years working as a Veterinary Nurse for a mixed practice clinic in Te Awamutu. With this experience comes an existing knowledge of many aspects of the animal health industry enabling Tania to provide valuable customer service to our clients in her role within our Specimen Reception team.

  When not working Tania is heavily involved with her local amateur theatre in various capacities including onstage acting, backstage roles, singing in a choir & committee involvement. She also has a deep passion for animals, having adopted 4 cats & a rescue dog over her years as a Vet Nurse. Family takes up the rest of Tania’s spare time, her twin sons are in their Uni stages & with parents living in Whakatane trips to Ohope beach with her dog Freya in tow are a regular favourite activity.

• Rochelle Keatinge

  Specimen Reception

  Rochelle has previously worked in retail in management/supervisory roles for a good 10 years, including 5 years within pet stores. Rochelle has also worked at a kennel/cattery and as a pet sitter.

  Rochelle likes animals, plants, and pet photography.

• Taye Pearson

  Admin/Lab Technician

  Taye joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in May 2021 and works across both the laboratory and administration teams. He is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Professional Accounting at the University of Waikato. Taye is versatile and always willing to assist wherever needed, contributing to the smooth operation of the lab.

  In his free time, Taye enjoys playing volleyball, riding his motorbike, and snowboarding when the seasons are right.

Pathology

• Adrienne French

  Pathologist

  On completion of her BVSc at Massey University in 1994, Adrienne moved to the UK where she spent six years working in general small animal practice before relocating again, this time to the US, to pursue a pathology residency. Following five years at the University of Pennsylvania and board certification in both anatomic and clinical pathology, she returned to Palmerston North in late 2005 to work in diagnostic pathology with NZVP/Idexx. In 2017, she took a hiatus to try something completely different, enrolling as a full-time PhD student at Massey University to research the nematode infections of kiwi. After submitting her thesis in early 2021, Adrienne returned to diagnostic pathology, joining the SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team in Hamilton.

• Geneviève D’Amours

  Pathologist

  Gen obtained her veterinary degree from University of Montreal in 2001 and then did a Master of veterinary Science in anatomic pathology at the University of Saskatchewan. She then pursued her PhD in Veterinary microbiology at the university of Calgary, studying tetracycline resistance of Histophilus somni in feedlot cattle. During her time in Calgary, Gen met a Kiwi on his OE. She came to NZ in 2009 to do her own OE but decided to settle in Hamilton and is now Mum of two young kiwi daughters. Gen has 15 years’ experience in diagnostic pathology in NZ, working first for Gribbles, then NZVP/Idexx before joining SVS Labs/VetPath NZ in 2019. Her main interests include cytology/histopathology correlation, trace elements and microbiology as well as ophthalmic pathology.

  In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, tramping and skiing at Mt Ruapehu.

• Lisa Schmidt

  Pathologist

  Lisa joined SVS Labs/VetPath NZ in late 2017 after working for Manitoba Agriculture’s Veterinary Diagnostic Services (Canadian provincial government lab) that is recognized in Western Canada for its large porcine case load. In addition to pigs, she also has experience with poultry (owing to the large poultry farms and backyard flocks near the diagnostic lab), other domestic animals, wildlife, and zoo species.

• Sandra Forsyth

  Pathologist

  Sandra began her veterinary career in mixed animal practice in the South Island before training in anaesthesia and critical patient care in the USA. Once credentials were achieved, she returned to NZ to teach at Massey University until the toll of late nights and back ache from moving anaesthetised horses saw her re-train in clinical pathology, followed by positions at the university and NZVP. In late 2016, Sandra moved to VetPath NZ in Hamilton where she is enjoying the warm air and absence of wind.

Science

• Annalise Jordaan

  Microbiology/Parasitology

  Annalise has a BSc. In Microbiology and Zoology and a Degree in Veterinary Technology. She has over 20 years’ experience working in veterinary diagnostic laboratories both in South Africa and New Zealand. Annalise joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team in June 2023.

• Alita Fern

  Chemistry

  Alita recently joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ as a chemistry technician after graduating from Otago University. With a foundation in biology and a passion for diagnostics, they are excited to contribute to the team’s success.

  Outside of work, Alita enjoys bush walks with friends and family, travelling, and playing the piano wherever she can find one.

• Chaye Smith

  Molecular/Virology

  Chaye is qualified as a Veterinary Technician, which sparked an interest in lab work. She has been working in a laboratory setting for almost three years, where she is able to combine her love of science with her passion for supporting animal health. She enjoys working hands-on in the lab and likes the challenge of learning new things.

  Outside of work, Chaye enjoys curling up with a good book, experimenting with new baking recipes, and keeping active at the gym.

• Darshi Smarakoon

  Chemistry

  Darshi completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree in Sri Lanka and relocated to New Zealand in 2005. She started working in a microbiology lab in 2012 and moved to a veterinary lab in 2019. She joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in November 2024 with over 5 years of experience in Veterinary Haematology and Veterinary Biochemistry.

  Darshi also enjoys travelling during the holidays & spending time with her family and friends.

• Desma Cook

  Haematology

  Desma trained at the Waikato Hospital Laboratory, working there for 8 years before leaving to do her big O. E. Here she met her husband, and they came back to settle in NZ. She worked at Hamilton Medical Laboratories before having a break from work for some years while her children were young and helped her husband in his business venture. For the last 13 years she has been working in veterinary labs in Hamilton and commenced work with SVS Labs/VetPath NZ in November 2019. She specializes in Haematology which she enjoys immensely.

  Desma spends her spare time walking, cycling, reading, quilting and travelling when the opportunity arises.

• Emily Beever

  Serology

  Emily was a SVS Veterinary Supplies store person before she joined the SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team. She helped packing orders and managing the dispatch team during her time at the warehouse. She loved the environment and the people VetPath NZ brought with them but felt her Bachelor in Science was wasting away. When she heard there was a Laboratory just across the road, she decided to join the team to further gain experience within the field of science. She joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in 2022 and loves the challenges the lab gives most days.

  After a long day she loves coming home to her black and white cat named Rorschach. Inspired from the psychological test with the black blobs on white paper.

• James Regnerus-Kell

  Molecular/Virology

  James first joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in 2016 as one of the original team members, playing a key role in setting up the Serology Department as the primary Technician and later stepping into the role of Team Leader. Coming to us from NZVP/Idexx, he brought a strong background in serology alongside experience in molecular biology and biochemistry.

  Over the years, James has expanded his expertise across microbiology with Fonterra and gained hands-on experience in cryogenics, serological, and molecular testing with CRV and LIC. After a brief time away, we’re thrilled to welcome him back to the SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team, now contributing his skills as a Virology/Molecular Technician.

  Outside the lab, James combines his love of genetics with a passion for animals, creating a truly extraordinary home life. His household is a lively mix of ostriches, emus, llamas, alpacas, miniature cattle, Nubian and Nigerian Dwarf goats, three dogs, two cats, exotic pigeons, poultry, waterfowl, tortoises, tropical fish, and even honeybees—all cared for alongside his veterinarian husband and their two young children.

  Whether he’s exploring the genetic traits of his animals or simply enjoying their company, James’ world is a fascinating blend of science and life on the farm, making every day an adventure.

• Kelso Stewart

  Molecular

  Kelso has worked in veterinary pathology laboratories since 2014, kicking things off in haematology and branching out into multiple departments, now heading molecular diagnostics.

  In her personal time, she is active in the local creatives community, attends pop culture and art conventions, enjoys various forms of gaming, and tries to keep up with a busy social life. Their home is bursting at the seams with three cats, a leopard gecko, various insect farm endeavours and too many plants to count.

• Louise Carter

  Microbiology/Parasitology

  Louise joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in late 2017. Louise is the team leader for the Microbiology and Parasitology department.

• Peter Bennett

  Virology

  Peter started out in diagnostics at Pathlab Waikato in 2012, working with microbiology and specimen reception. After completing his masters in genetics, he moved down to Wellington to join MPI’s National Biocontainment Laboratory, as a scientist in both the Bacteriology and Genomics departments. In late 2024, he moved back home to set up VetPath’s new virology department, where he resides to this day.

  In his spare time, he enjoys playing squash and quoting vaguely relevant excerpts from Discworld novels.

• Rina McCarthy

  Serology/Chemistry

  Rina joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in late 2017, bringing over a decade of work experience in veterinary diagnostic labs including NZVP/Idexx and Gribbles. She is a master at collecting aqueous humour from eyes and she runs our serology assays.

  Rina plays Roller Derby for the local league the Hellmilton Roller Ghouls. Rina also enjoys heavy metal music and travelling in her kombi van and spending time with her family.

• Pooja Malegaonkar

  Chemistry

  Pooja joined VetPath NZ in July 2025, bringing a strong academic background and hands-on experience to the team. Originally from India, she moved to New Zealand in 2018 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Food Science from AUT. With five years of experience in clinical administration and laboratory work, Pooja has a solid understanding of biochemistry and microbiology that supports her role.

  Outside of work, Pooja is a passionate dancer, a devoted foodie, and a certified makeup artist, combining creativity with a love for vibrant experiences.

• Sarah Wallace

  Histology

  Sarah has been at SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ since it opened in 2016 and has worked in veterinary diagnostic labs primarily as a histotechnologist for over 20 years.

• Sintie Evert

  Microbiology/Parasitology

  Sintie qualified as a Veterinary Technologist in 1996 and thereafter added on a Bachelor of Science degree. She started her career off in a forensic laboratory and after 7 years decided to get back into the veterinary field. Since 2007 she’s been working in veterinary diagnostic laboratories covering the whole range of disciplines. Sintie is originally from South Africa and immigrated to New Zealand in 2019, working in one of Hamilton’s veterinary laboratories. Later in August 2022, she joined the SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ team and already worked across multiple departments.

  Sintie is a cat and horse person. She does tries to go for farm rides in the beautiful NZ countryside.

• Sue Thomson

  Chemistry

  Sue arrived in New Zealand many years ago after having completed a MMed (Medical Biochemistry) degree at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. She spent the first twelve years here working in veterinary laboratories (Gribbles and NZVP) and then moved to a human laboratory where she worked for the next thirteen years. She also obtained a post-graduate diploma in Medical Laboratory Science whilst working there. She has now returned to testing veterinary specimens.

  Sue enjoys music, knitting and furniture restoration. And cats.

• Wendy Palmer

  Haematology

  Wendy completed her Bachelor of Science prior to obtaining her Certificate in Veterinary Nursing. After finishing her training in 2002, she took a job in veterinary diagnostics. While she initially started in microbiology and serology, she diversified into haematology. She joined SVS Labs/VetPath NZ in mid-2016 as one of the original staff members. In her spare time,

  Wendy loves exploring nature with her husband and two children. She also keeps fit playing sports and competing in squash during the winter and tennis in the summer.

• Yolandé Conradie

  Quality Manager & Haematology

  Yolandé originally came from a busy, two-technician human laboratory in Grahamstown, South Africa. She relocated to New Zealand in 1998 and her first position was with Ruakura Animal Health Laboratory in Hamilton. Her primary focus was in Haematology and Chemistry at the time. Over time, she shifted from the Ruakura lab to Gribbles and later NZVP. At Gribbles she specialised in Haematology and became the Quality Manager at NZVP in 2009. During her time as Quality Manager, NZVP gained IANZ accreditation. Yolandé joined SVS Laboratories/VetPath NZ in 2016 in the Haematology department and helped us to gain IANZ accreditation.

  Yolandé is passionate about quality and detail and strives to go the extra mile.