Other Specialists

Dr Cheri Hotu

BHB MBChB FRACP MD, Consultant Physician & Endocrinologist

Dr Cheri Hotu (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Ruanui) is a Consultant Physician & Endocrinologist, with extensive clinical experience in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia. She works at Te Toka Tumai Auckland Hospital and at Vaelera Clinic, based at the NZ Respiratory & Sleep Institute. She is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

A 1998 graduate of the Auckland University School of Medicine, Cheri undertook basic physician training in Melbourne, and completed her specialist training in Endocrinology in 2008. Her clinical practice has centred on chronic disease management, weight management, diabetes, and acute inpatient general medicine. She spent five years in Central Australia as the Lead Endocrinologist of a diabetes outreach service, providing specialist care to remote Aboriginal communities.

Cheri has an academic background in hypertension, diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, and Indigenous Health, and holds a Degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Auckland. She is an Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at the Auckland University School of Medicine, and is involved in the teaching of medical students and junior doctors at Auckland Hospital.

Cheri is dedicated to helping her patients achieve their health and wellness goals through comprehensive medical and non-pharmacologic weight loss strategies.

Dina-Sara Vajsakovic

Health Psychologist

Bachelor & Postgraduate Diploma of Arts, Psychology, Master of Health Psychology, MHealthPsyc, Psychological Medicine & Postgraduate Diploma in Health Psychology, Psychological Medicine.

Dina-Sara is a registered Health Psychologist with a particular interest in respiratory and sleep health. She works alongside adults living with chronic health conditions and understands how physical health challenges can affect emotional wellbeing, relationships, and everyday life. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Dina-Sara aims to create a safe and supportive space where people feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting changes, while reconnecting with what matters most to them - even in the presence of life stressors and health challenges. She takes a holistic approach that recognises each person's unique experiences, values, and strengths.

Dina-Sara has worked across public and private healthcare settings. She is registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board, a member of the New Zealand Psychological Society and the Institute of Health Psychology, and a Southern Cross affiliated provider.