Friday 8 May 2026
KCOCA Business Breakfast: Inside Orthopaedics - Training, Practice and the Future
Date: Friday 8 May
Time: From 7:15am - Start 7.30am - 8:45am
Location: Akarana Marine Sports Centre, Okahu Bay, Ōrākei
Join us for an informative panel discussion with three of New Zealand's leading orthopaedic surgeons, as we explore the journey behind the profession, the realities of life in theatre, and what the future holds for joint health and surgical innovation.
Orthopaedics sits at the intersection of performance, injury, and ageing - something that becomes increasingly relevant to all of us over time. This discussion will go beyond the operating room, offering practical insights into how our bodies change, what we can do to stay mobile, and how advances in technology are reshaping outcomes.
Guest Speakers
Richard Cowley (Selwyn, 2003-04) is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in spine surgery and arthritis of the hip and knee. A Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons, he has undertaken advanced training in New Zealand and internationally, including specialist spine fellowships in Auckland and Calgary. His expertise spans trauma, tumour, infection, and degenerative spinal conditions, alongside hip and knee replacement surgery. Based in Christchurch, Richard provides tertiary-level care through Te Whatu Ora and Otautahi Orthopaedics in the private sector. His focus is on providing the standard of care that he expects his family to receive. Richard was a true all-rounder at King’s, representing the 1st XV and 1st XI, and serving as Head of Selwyn.
Duncan Ferguson (Averill, 1988-92) is an orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty fellowship training in shoulder and knee surgery. He completed advanced training in Sydney, Italy, and North America before returning to Auckland in 2011, where he joined Auckland City Hospital as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon. Duncan has extensive experience managing shoulder and knee conditions across the full spectrum, including trauma, arthroscopic procedures, and joint replacement surgery. He also consults privately at Eastwood Orthopaedic Clinic, where he is known for his practical, patient-focused approach and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.
Daniel Lemanu (Te Rarawa) (Greenbank, 1999-2003) is an orthopaedic surgeon with a strong interest in paediatric orthopaedics, combining clinical practice with academic research. He trained in Auckland, working at Middlemore Hospital and across the region, and completed a PhD focused on improving outcomes for patients undergoing obesity surgery. A University of Auckland Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar, Daniel brings a unique perspective shaped by both South Auckland roots and academic excellence. Known for his thoughtful and patient-centred approach, he is passionate about advancing orthopaedic care through both surgery and research. Dan was Head of Greenbank and a member of the First XV.
Moderated by Ben Willis (Averill, 1990-94) Founder & CEO, ORB Medical.
This event is ideal for professionals, business leaders, and anyone interested in health, performance, and longevity. We will be discussing:
The pathway to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon—training, competition, and sacrifice
A behind-the-scenes look at day-to-day life in surgery and clinical practice
The most common injuries and issues across different stages of life
Practical advice on maintaining joint health and avoiding surgery
The future of orthopaedics, robotics, AI, and regenerative treatments