Expert surgery, compassionate care
At WLSW, we believe that weight loss surgery is about far more than the procedure itself – it’s about helping people reclaim their health, mobility, and confidence through safe, medically-supported transformation.
Comprehensive care from a dedicated team
For over 15 years, we’ve been providing bariatric surgery to New Zealanders using a team-based approach. We combine trusted surgical expertise with the guidance of a full multidisciplinary team – including dietitian/nutritionist, psychologist/counsellor, physiotherapist, nurse, and surgeon – to give every patient the long-term support they deserve.
A patient-first philosophy
Surgery isn’t a quick fix. It’s a major decision – one that often comes after years of effort, frustration, and deep reflection. That’s why we take a collaborative approach to care. We listen, guide, and support each person through their unique journey, from first enquiry to long-term health improvement.
Our goal is not just weight loss. It’s health gain.
Why multidisciplinary care matters
International research and local experience both show that patients who receive ongoing, wraparound support achieve better outcomes from bariatric surgery. Our model ensures:
- Physical and emotional readiness pre-surgery
- Nutritional support to promote healthy, sustainable habits
- Ongoing post-operative care and guidance
- Reduced risk of complications or long-term issues
In other words, we’re here for the whole journey – not just the operation.
Meet your team
Led by Mr Atul Dhabuwala, the WLS surgical team brings together decades of specialist experience in general and bariatric surgery. Together, they offer the highest standard of surgical care – with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to long-term wellbeing.
ATUL DHABUWALA
Bariatric and General Surgeon
Mr Atul Dhabuwala is a New Zealand-based General, Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon who has been offering weight loss surgery in private practice since 2009. Atul is known for his enthusiasm for minimally invasive surgical techniques – particularly in the fields of bariatric, reflux, hernia, and Gall bladder surgery.
He also holds a public hospital role at Lower Hutt Hospital, where he performs a broad range of general, gastrointestinal and endocrine procedures.
WERNIE CARDNO
Team Coordinator and Administrator
Wernie is your first point of contact in our practice for most things.
With over 8 years of experience as the Team Coordinator and Administrator at Weight Loss Surgery Wellington, Wernie has developed a good understanding of the weight loss surgery process. As the go-to resource for our team and clients, Wernie is very approachable and always willing to help and answer any questions you may have.
NICOLA TILLER
Clinical psychologist
Nicola has been practicing as a Clinical Psychologist for over 25 years and has been working with the Weight Loss Surgery Wellington Clinic since 2018. Nicola uses a variety of evidence-based therapy models, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Somatic- and Compassion-based approaches. Her goal is to support our patients with the emotional, mental, and behavioural adjustments post-surgery.
LINDA ROBERTSON
Counsellor/Therapist
Linda is an experienced counsellor who has supported people navigating change since qualifying in 2010. She joined the weight-loss surgery team in 2021 and has helped people prepare for and adapt to life after surgery. With a warm, down-to-earth approach, she provides a supportive space to work through challenges, build on existing strengths, celebrate progress, and foster resilience, confidence, and self-belief throughout the bariatric journey.
CAROLINE STIRK
Nutritionist
Caroline is a New Zealand Registered Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition. Carolie has a background in appetite research and personalised counselling for weight loss and wellbeing. Her approach focuses on empowering individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes that reflect their values and unique circumstances, helping them build balanced habits that support long-term health and vitality.
SAM BOOBIER
Physiotherapist
Sam has a background in the musculoskeletal physiotherapy field, having worked here and in the UK. She has been with us since 2012 and works with you to put in place a sustainable and positive exercise routine that works for you and your circumstances.
Working with both cardiovascular and resistance based exercise helps maintain body health and long term maintenance of weight loss.
Begin your wellness journey today
You don’t have to have it all figured out. Whether you’re just starting to research or ready to move forward, we’re here to help you make an informed decision that works for your life.
Your Body Mass Index (BMI) helps assess whether you might benefit from surgery.
We’ll send you an easy-to-read guide that outlines options, eligibility, and what to expect.
A referral by your GP is required. Talk with our team to understand what might be right for you.