A New Chapter for Queen Street Doctors

After over four decades serving the city centre, Queen Street Doctors is entering an exciting new era that preserves its patient-focused approach while also investing in its future. 

Three long-standing members of the practice - GPs Dr Ali Goldkorn and Dr Nadina Thwaites, along with Practice Manager Jamie Paea, recently became the new owners, taking over from Dr Kathy McKay, who continues to work as a GP at the clinic.

For the trio, the transition from employees to owners felt like a natural next step.

"We wanted the clinic to remain a GP-owned, family-friendly and patient-focused practice," says Dr Goldkorn. "We were keen to avoid becoming part of a large corporate structure and not compromise on the quality of care that we had been providing.” 

The new owners bring decades of combined experience to their roles. Dr Goldkorn has worked at Queen Street Doctors for more than 18 years, while Dr Thwaites has been part of the practice for over 19 years. Practice Manager Jamie Paea has spent more than a decade helping keep the clinic running smoothly.

Their deep connection to the practice and its patients played a significant role in their decision to take ownership.

(L-R): Dr. Nadia Thwaites, Dr. Ali Goldkorn & Jamie Paea

Caring for a Diverse City Community

Working in the city centre is one of the aspects of the job the team enjoys most.

"We love the vibrant inner-city atmosphere," says Dr Goldkorn. "We see a wide range of patients from all over the world, across all ages and backgrounds. It makes for a really interesting and rewarding place to work."

Originally founded as a two-doctor practice in 1983, the clinic has evolved along with the city centre, as its population has grown. Today, the practice is home to 11 part-time GPs, three nurses and a dedicated team of reception and administrative staff. They’ve recently welcomed two new GPs, helping ensure it can continue to meet demand from its growing patient base.

Preserving What Matters Most

Through the growth and change, Dr Goldkorn says that preserving the clinic's people-first culture was one of their highest priorities. 

"We want to maintain a warm, friendly environment where patients feel they are treated as individuals," she says.

The welcoming atmosphere extends to maintaining what Dr Goldkorn describes as an “old-fashioned” GP model, centred on patient support and accessibility:

“Mostly our patients can get an appointment the same day of their booking or within a day, although they might not always be able to see their preferred GP. We have wonderful nurses who have worked here for many years and whom our patients have got to know over time. Our receptionists and administration staff are welcoming, and our waiting room is a lovely space.”

A New Home on Queen Street

The clinic recently relocated to 79 Queen Street, which has been freshly fitted out with modern medical rooms. It’s a move that reflects Queen Street Doctors’ commitment to the city centre and its ambitions for the future.

Queen Street Doctors reception area

Looking Ahead with Confidence

While Auckland's city centre has faced challenges in recent years, the Queen Street Doctors team remains optimistic about its future.

“Auckland has many attractions as a city” says Dr. Goldkorn. “It offers walkable access to many services and shops, and the opening of the CRL will improve the train network. You’re close to art galleries, theatres, and from almost anywhere in the city centre, there’s a glimpse of the sparkling ocean.” 

As Queen Street Doctors embarks on its next chapter, Dr Goldkorn says they’re focused on remaining a trusted part of the community for years to come.

“We hope to remain part of the central city community for many generations, and to provide a reliable primary health care service to our patients. If there is a need, we do hope to be able to grow.”

Dr. Goldkorn's Office