Our Team

Kris Sweetapple is proud to call Napier home. After graduating with distinction from the University of Otago in 2017 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Kris has already made a significant impact in his hometown community.

Currently serving as the Clinical Director of Hospital Dentistry at Hawke’s Bay Hospital, Kris is passionate about oral surgery and improving patient oral health through quality, evidence-based care. He recognises the crucial bidirectional relationship between oral health and overall health and well-being. His dedication to the profession and further education has been recognised through achievements in the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) general dental practice Fellowship exams.

In 2023, Kris was honored with the New Zealand Dental Association’s Outstanding Young Dentist award, a testament to his early career achievements. He now gives back to the profession through mentoring young dentists through the New Zealand Dental Association mentorship program.

Beyond oral health, Kris enjoys playing football and exploring the natural beauty of New Zealand and the Hawke’s Bay region. With his commitment, and local roots, Kris Sweetapple is motivated to make a lasting impact on dentistry in New Zealand.

Taryn Yew grew up in a multicultural Malaysian society and studied at the University of Otago, where she earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2017. Taryn is fluent in both Mandarin and English, and has a passion for improving oral health and creating positive dental experiences. Taryn brings a warm and caring approach to her practice in Napier.

As a skilled general dentist, Taryn enjoys the diversity of treatments she provides, from routine check-ups to complex restorative work. Her talents particularly shine in the realm of cosmetic dentistry, where she expertly combines artistry and technical expertise to craft beautiful smiles. Her commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies ensures her patients receive the highest quality care.

Beyond the dental chair, Taryn embraces an active lifestyle, enjoying biking, cooking, and going on adventures to explore all that New Zealand has to offer. You’ll often find her out and about, walking her beloved dog, Cleo, and immersing herself in all that her adopted homeland has to offer.

With her dedication to patient care, and commitment to ongoing professional development, Taryn is here to help you achieve your oral health goals.

Zinah grew up in Auckland before moving to Dunedin to pursue her passion for dentistry at the University of Otago. She graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery with First Class Honours.

Zinah is committed to providing patient-centred care, ensuring every visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. She values clear communication and works collaboratively with her patients to help them make informed decisions about their oral health. Dedicated to delivering high-quality dental care, Zinah continually seeks to enhance her skills and broaden her expertise through ongoing professional development and education.

Outside of work, Zinah enjoys staying active at the gym, going for runs, and exploring the outdoors through hiking. She also treasures quality time spent with family and friends.

Jason brings a fresh perspective to Parkside Dental in Napier, combining academic excellence with a genuine passion for patient-centered dental care. Originally born in Korea and raised in Rotorua, he completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery with First Class Honours from the University of Otago.

His academic achievements include several university awards reflecting his diligence and commitment to clinical excellence. Jason is passionate about patient care, focusing on education and empowerment, and helping patients to make informed decisions about their oral health.

With a special interest in minimally invasive adhesive dentistry and biomimetic techniques, Jason is committed to preserving natural dental structures and staying at the forefront of dental research and technology. He consistently seeks out the latest innovations to ensure optimal patient care.

Outside of the dental practice, Jason leads an active lifestyle. He can often be found running, attempting to improve his golf skills, or exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of the Hawkes Bay region.

Riku Koyama brings a compassionate approach to Parkside Dental, having grown up in Oamaru and graduated from the University of Otago in 2020. After working at Wellington Hospital for three years and then Hawkes Bay Hospital, he has now joined our practice, completing postgraduate examinations with the Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in 2023.

An active member of the New Zealand Dental Association’s Sustainability Working Group, Riku has presented at several conferences and is passionate about preventative dentistry. He focuses on personalized patient care and breaking down dental anxieties, consistently seeking to provide comfortable and effective treatments.

Riku is committed to evidence-based dentistry and continuous professional development. He believes in creating individualised treatment plans ensuring patients receive the most current and comprehensive care possible.

Beyond dentistry, Riku is an avid football player and runner who loves staying active. With a keen interest in travel and environmental sustainability, he brings a dynamic approach to his work and personal life, always looking to expand his horizons and make a positive impact.

Hannah’s journey has taken her from her hometown of Napier to Dunedin, and then on to Japan for six enriching years before returning to her roots. This diverse experience has given her a unique perspective that she brings to her role as Practice Manager at Parkside Dental.

Outside of work, Hannah cherishes time with family and friends, staying active through exercise, indulging in good books, and baking. Her greatest joy however comes from being a mother to her three-year-old son.

Hannah enjoys working in the supportive environment that she helps foster. She is committed to maintaining the practice’s reputation for quality dental care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible experience.

Rose brings a rich cultural background to Parkside Dental, having grown up in the Northern Philippines, a place that holds many cherished memories for her. Since the move, Rose has settled down in Hawkes Bay to join her husband and she is embracing the region’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm community.

In her free time, Rose enjoys unwinding with a good book after a busy day. She particularly treasures family moments with her husband and daughter who bring her a lot of joy in life.

Rose finds fulfillment in her dual role as a dental assistant and clinical manager. She takes pride in working alongside a supportive team, dedicating herself to helping patients improve their oral health and overall well-being.

Rosie is a proud Hawke’s Bay native who, after traveling around, returned to her roots in Napier. 

Rosie cherishes time with her family. Her partner and son are the centre of her world, along with their two beloved dogs. You might spot Rosie enjoying sunny days by the beach or reading a good book during her downtime.

Rosie finds fulfillment in helping patients improve confidence and achieve their best smiles. Her personal values align with the practice’s ethos and she enjoys working in a place that prioritises a safe and comfortable environment for patients.

Pam moved to Hawke’s Bay from the Philippines and she has embraced her new lifestyle with enthusiasm, finding joy in new experiences. 

An avid explorer, Pam loves discovering new places and immortalising her experiences through video and photography. This creative outlet allows her to relive cherished memories. When not behind the camera, Pam prioritises quality time with her family, valuing these moments of connection.

Pam enjoys being a part of a team that focuses on patient care, ensuring comfort and educating people on how to maintain their oral health.  Pam appreciates the opportunities for learning and growth that her position offers, keeping her motivated and engaged in her work.

Jasmine, a Hawke’s Bay local, has always felt a strong connection to her hometown. Despite venturing elsewhere, she’s repeatedly drawn back to the region.

An outdoor enthusiast, Jasmine enjoys long walks and beach days, making the most of the Bay’s natural beauty. She’s also passionate about supporting local talent and craft.

Jasmine excels in her dual role as receptionist and dental assistant. She finds joy in being part of a kind, dedicated team that strives to create positive dental experiences for patients.