Long-term Optik owners Laurraine and John Kelsey

After servicing the entire Franklin area for more than three decades, John and Laurraine Kelsey, owners of Optik Eyecare Pukekohe, Auckland, are retiring, having sold their practice to OPSM.

“We are honoured and excited for Optik Eyecare to join the OPSM network of practices in New Zealand,” said James Melton, OPSM New Zealand country director. “We look forward to continuing servicing the practice’s existing patients and are grateful for John and Laurraine’s flexibility to stay with us and facilitate the transition to minimise any possible inconvenience for customers and staff.”

OPSM was the natural choice because of its similar set of values, said Laurraine Kelsey. “John and I feel OPSM is also focused on customised eyecare solutions, community ties and having professional and friendly staff. Putting patients’ needs first means the transition will be easy and will benefit our large client base, including some families spanning three generations over 31 years. Also, we believe that the transition for staff would be well supported.”

Rebranded Optik Eyecare in 2007, the practice first opened its doors as John Kelsey Optometrist in 1990, when the Kelseys emigrated from England. Over the years, they developed a family-orientated practice with a strong clinical focus and have remained its sole owners. The couple said they have enjoyed playing an active role in their community, with Optik Eyecare Pukekohe having been a long-standing supporter of the local bowling club, lawn tennis, kindergarten and more. “We recognise John and Laurraine’s high reputation in the community, both professional and social, thanks to their contribution to so many organisations and causes,” said Melton. “While the practice moves to a new chapter, our commitment is to keep their legacy alive with the local community.”

All staff are staying on, with the Kelseys assisting with the transition until mid-March 2022. Under the new ownership, Optik Eyecare will stock the standard OPSM brands.