FAM™Tūī Program
FAM™ is excited to introduce an innovative program scheduled for launch in Auckland, New Zealand, in April 2025. Drawing from our collective experiences, we have recognised a growing demand among our clients and their families who are living with disabilities. They are seeking alternative, intensive-based therapy solutions that empower their unique journeys. Many individuals have felt compelled to seek post-operative or specialised therapy abroad, which has led us to commit to delivering excellence locally, offering a homegrown alternative.
Our extensive market research has highlighted a need for a program that seamlessly integrates evidence-informed rehabilitation, functional training, and strength and conditioning, all while fostering an enjoyable and empowering environment. We understand the profound importance of personalised care, which takes into account each client's distinct medical history and personal aspirations. Our primary goal is to provide a tailor-made service that uses a systematic approach and sound clinical reasoning in movement analysis supporting progress on individuals goals within a condensed timeframe, thereby establishing a robust foundation for their transformative journey.
From the ground up and co-created with with our clients, we have designed a two week intensive program that we believe will offer the New Zealand community a service that is sorely missing.
'Intensive therapy approaches for children with cerebral palsy are emerging as effective in making improvements in motor function' (Novac et al, 2013).
We follow the latest clinical guidelines (Jackman, 2021) to help children and young people with cerebral palsy improve their movement and physical abilities. As Zukić (2021) notes, ‘independent walking is a fundamental goal of rehabilitation,’ and we use proven methods like strength exercises and functional electrical stimulation to support mobility. Research also shows that ‘a high dose of practice is necessary for effective motor improvement’ (Guérin et al., 2023), which is why we focus on intensive, structured rehabilitation to help children make the best possible progress.
The naming of our program - Tūī:
Tūī, symbolising life fulfilment, confidence, and spiritual harmony, is a native bird of New Zealand. We found no better name to encompass the essence of our program and its intended achievements. After engaging in discussions with esteemed colleagues and Kaumātua, we received their approval, recognising the deep meaning and connection between our program's principles and the name Tūī.
About Tūī
Our program runs for 8 weeks, combining 10 in-person days with 6 weeks of telehealth support. During the in-person sessions, clients receive 2.5 hours of intensive one-on-one therapy each day, including a 90-minute physiotherapy session and a one-hour FAM™ Strength and Conditioning session. After completing the 2-week in-person program, families continue with 6 weekly Zoom telehealth sessions to support ongoing progress at home. To ensure personalised attention and quality, our intense program is limited to a maximum of 3 clients per program run. It welcomes individuals aged 7 to 21 years who are motivated to put in the effort and seek professional guidance in pursuit of their goals. Our program caters to a diverse clientele, including but not limited to:
- Individuals with Cerebral Palsy, including those contemplating or having undergone Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery.
- Individuals recovering from a Stroke.
- Those recovering from Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI).
- Individuals with various other neurological conditions.
The F-Words Life Wheel is used as a valuable tool designed to highlight an individual’s strengths and identify areas for growth. This approach ensures that goals are personally meaningful and guided by the individual and their family. Through ongoing sessions, coaching will empower families and caregivers with the skills and confidence to integrate the program into daily life, fostering long-term success.
Learn more about the F-words Life Wheel.
Weekly Zoom sessions will be provided for six weeks following the intensive program to support continued progress at home. These sessions will help reinforce skills, address challenges as a team, and ensure a smooth transition into daily routines. Additionally, participants and their families will maintain a journal to document completed tasks, exercises, and observations, fostering reflection and ongoing development.
No matter your background, our program is designed to empower anyone with the motivation to work diligently towards their rehabilitation goals. We are committed to ensuring a seamless and effective rehabilitation journey, and we invite you to reach out
with any questions or concerns you may have regarding these program details.
The 'Tūi' program harnesses contemporary advancements in therapy-based approaches, aligning with the forefront of therapeutic thought. Tailored to accommodate a client's unique condition and prior interventions, our program seamlessly complements previous work and aligns with current goals. Our sessions are characterised by their intensity, featuring multiple repetition cycles that leverage fundamental physiological elements, including strength, motor control, alignment, balance, mobility, coordination, accuracy, agility, stamina, flexibility, and both physical and mental endurance. The therapist adeptly manages session intensity, fine-tuning it to suit each client's individual requirements, age, and daily assessments. Our program is laser-focused, enriched with compassion, and underpinned by empathy. Especially for children, we infuse a delightful layer of fun and play to ensure sustained engagement. techniques, mindfulness practices, and Tai Chi, our program is designed to provide holistic benefits. Our dedicated therapy team leverages their extensive collective experience and training, going to great lengths to achieve even the smallest of advancements. Your goals and the enhancement of your quality of life stand as paramount to us.
Initial Consultation and Setup:
- If you thinks the Tūī program is for you register your interest using the links on this page
- A preliminary consultation call to determine program suitability before commitment
- Payment is required two weeks before the program start date
- Coordination and collaboration with your current rehabilitation team, ensuring alignment of goals (if applicable)
- Medical clearance from your GP (or other medical specialist) as necessary
Program Includes:
- Comprehensive initial assessment and goal setting during the first session
- 1,5-hour daily Physiotherapy session provided by Merryn Robertson
- 1-hour daily Strength and Conditioning session delivered by FAM™
- Daily journal to be completed with what was achieved and observed, noting any changes
- Self-guided warm-up and cool-down routines for each session
- A personalised take-home exercise program tailored to your needs
- Access to video analysis software for enhanced feedback
- All the required equipment for the sessions is provided
- There is 90-120 minute break between Physio and S&C sessions for rest and recovery and to reduce fatigue
- 6 weeks of weekly 1-hour zoom calls to support continued progress at home
- Summary report at the end of the 8 week package of care
Optional Extras:
- The opportunity to opt for ongoing support from either the physio team or FAM™
- Comprehensive, full Assessment and intervention report
Please be aware that the program fee does not cover the following:
- Transportation expenses
- Accommodation costs
- Food and beverage expenses
- Any costs associated with the retrieval of medical records
The upcoming pilot Tūī program, concluding at the end of June 2025, is fully booked. The next Tūī programs will be available starting November 2025.
If you have preferred dates outside of those listed below, we invite you to register / contact us to discuss possible arrangements.
Merryn Robertson
Lead Physio Tūī
Merryn is a highly experienced physiotherapist with over 20 years of dedication to helping children reach their full physical potential. Originally trained in South Africa, she earned her Master’s in Physiotherapy before relocating to New Zealand in 2009. A Bobath-trained therapist since 2006, Merryn has worked across diverse settings, including preschools, schools, private clinics, hospitals, and family homes.
Passionate about fostering movement, confidence, and well-being, Merryn collaborates closely with families and the team to support each child’s unique journey. She is a strong advocate for pain-free growth and building strong, healthy bodies from an early age. Committed to
excellence, she continuously refines her practice through ongoing learning, international evidence-based approaches, and regular peer reviews—ensuring every child receives the highest standard of care.
Credentials:
New Zealand Registered Physiotherapist (2008 – current)
Member of Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ( (2009 - current )
Chairperson of Paediatric Special Interest Group (2022 - 2024)
Member of New Zealand Bobath Association (2009 - current)
New Zealand Bobath Association Tutor Trainee (2022 - current)
Founding member of the Wired Collective
Michael Hynard
Strength & Conditioning coach Tūī
Michael's journey in health and fitness transcends a mere career; it's a profound calling fueled by a deeply personal connection. In 1996, his daughter Siobhan, just one year old, was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, igniting an unwavering purpose within him. Inspired by his own experiences, Michael founded the FAM™ Program, firmly believing in an integrated and collaborative approach, especially within the special needs community.
His dedication shines through his unwavering collaboration with specialists across various fields, ensuring a comprehensive approach. Michael proudly holds titles as an AdaptX-Certified Inclusive and Adaptive Fitness Coach and an ATA (Adaptive Training Academy) certified Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer. He is also a competitive athlete who twice represented South Africa in martial arts, earning the prestigious status of a national champion. His achievements extend to obtaining a certified CrossFit Level 2 trainer designation and holding a 1st Dan in traditional Jiu Jitsu. Before founding FAM™, Michael gained invaluable corporate sector experience as a salesperson and sales & leadership coach. These experiences equipped him with the ability to adapt to diverse situations and personalities. Clients describe Michael as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, impeccably professional, and exceptionally motivating. His unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of others remains deeply humbling. Further insight can be found in the testimonials on this site.
Michael is the first recipient of the inaugural Sir Murray Halberg Legacy Award presented at the 62nd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards 2025. This award honours those individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on disability sport in Aotearoa, continuing Sir Murray’s vision of inclusion and empowerment.
Matt Roy
Physio Tūī
Physio Tūī
Matt is deeply passionate about helping people reach their full potential. He takes a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside whanau to identify key focus areas and provide guidance. He is a strong advocate for fostering independence, educating whanau on ways to support their loved ones, and enhancing the quality of life for his clients.
Before pursuing his studies, Matt gained valuable experience through coaching in the disabilites space. After graduating from AUT, he has worked in private practice and more recently transitioned to a specialist school, where he helps children and their whanau make meaningful progress toward their goals.
Matt has a strong commitment to working within the disabilities space. He is dedicated to supporting individuals with diverse needs in achieving their best, all while creating a fun, enriching, and empowering therapy environment.
The Physio Co
- Eight week Tūī Program combining 10 in-person days with 6 weeks of telehealth support: 8,300 NZD including GST
- Eight week Tūī Program combining 9 in-person days with 6 weeks of telehealth support: 7,600 NZD including GST
- Following registration, a one-hour phone consultation will be scheduled to discuss your background, goals, and the program process. If you choose not to proceed with the Tūī Program after this session, a fee of $200 excl GST will apply. However, this fee will be waived should you decide to enroll in the program.
- Following the initial consultation, a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 excl GST is required to secure your preferred program date. While this deposit is non-refundable, it may be transferred to a future program date should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending as planned.
- If you choose to include a comprehensive assessment and intervention report, an additional fee of $300 (excluding GST) will apply.
- Payment must be made in full 21 days before the start date.
- If you would like to set up a payment plan prior to starting, please contact us to discuss.
The Intensive Program is limited to 3 clients for a 10-day block. Fill out the form below to make contact and express your interest in the Tūī Program.
- Full payment is required no later than 21 days prior to your selected program start date. In the event that you are unable to attend due to health-related or other circumstances beyond your control, we will do our best to accommodate a reschedule. All funds paid will be transferred in full to the next available date that works for you.
Together, let us embark on this transformative journey, where we redefine the possibilities of therapy and wellness for those who deserve it most—our clients living with disabilities.
