Sterling Group partners with Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio

15th June 2026
Animal Orthopaedics scaled - Sterling Group partners with Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio

Sterling Group has partnered with Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio to strengthen patient care through a more integrated offering for orthopaedic and rehabilitation services.

THE PARTNERSHIP

Animal Orthopaedics (AO) and Animal Physio (AP) join Sterling Group in a partnership that builds on shared commitment to clinical excellence, collaboration and a strong team-first culture, and further expands the VSA footprint in New Zealand.

ABOUT ANIMAL ORTHOPAEDICS AND ANIMAL PHYSIO

Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio are complementary small-animal referral providers delivering integrated orthopaedic and rehabilitation services across two referral clinics, providing an end-to-end care pathway that bridges the gap between general practice and specialist hospital care. Their referral-led model, collaborative approach and reputation for clinical excellence have made them trusted referral partners for veterinarians and pet owners across Christchurch and Wellington.

BACKGROUND TO THE PARTNERSHIP

Sterling Group recognised the value of Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio’s surgery-to rehabilitation model in supporting integrated veterinary care across New Zealand. The businesses’ approach complements Sterling’s hospital network, supporting a more coordinated pathway for patients and referring veterinarians. With strong reputations in orthopaedics and rehabilitation, Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio enhance Sterling’s specialist-led model through a shared commitment to exceptional patient outcomes. Their presence in Christchurch and Wellington broadens Sterling’s reach, creating opportunities to support more patients across New Zealand while maintaining the trusted relationships and clinical approach behind the businesses’ success.

THE VENDORS PERSPECTIVE

“AO and AP have built something special in the New Zealand veterinary market through their integrated orthopaedic and rehabilitation offering. Their experienced team, strong referral relationships and patient-centred model make them an excellent addition to Sterling Group, further strengthening our capabilities and clinical network across New Zealand.”

ALASTAIR COOMER, CLINICAL DIRECTOR CHRISTCHURCH, STERLING GROUP

“What stood out to us most about AO and AP was the strength of their team, culture and model of care. At Sterling Group, we believe we are better together, and we look forward to working alongside their team to share expertise, strengthen patient care and support future growth.”

KRIS MARTIN, CEO, STERLING GROUP

 

THE FUTURE

Through the partnership, Sterling Group will build on Animal Orthopaedics and Animal Physio’s established surgery-to-rehabilitation pathway to support better patient outcomes, strengthen referral relationships and broaden access to orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation services across New Zealand.

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ABOUT PEMBA

Pemba is actively looking to partner with other high-quality opportunities in the veterinary space. If you are considering external investment and would like to learn more about how a partnership with Pemba works, get in touch at opportunities@pemba.com.au.

PEMBA HAS EXPERTISE IN THE FOLLOWING SECTORS

Healthcare / Business Services / Education & Training / Non-Bank Financial Services / Technology

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