Physiotherapy, Manual Therapy & Myofascial Release
One of only a handful of physiotherapists in New Zealand trained in the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Technique, working with professional athletes and everyday clients for 25 years, in Wanaka.
John Appel, MPT — physiotherapist and strength & conditioning coach with 25 years working with professional athletes, alongside decades treating everyday clients through injury, pain and rehabilitation. He founded Pure Performance in Wanaka because he kept seeing clients discharged from physio the moment acute pain settled, handed a vague "go strengthen this" and no real plan for what came next. Physiotherapy and coaching sit on the same floor here, so a treatment plan actually carries through to getting stronger, not just getting by.
His approach centres on manual release work. John is one of only a handful of physiotherapists in New Zealand trained in the John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Technique, a specific hands-on method for releasing restriction through the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscle, and restoring genuine range of movement rather than easing pain for a few days. It's combined with manual manipulative therapy, dry needling and a functional, movement-based assessment, so treatment addresses what's actually driving the problem, not just the symptom in front of him.
Techniques & services
Myofascial Release
A specific hands-on technique to release restriction through the fascia and restore genuine range of movement, not just short-term pain relief.
Manual Manipulative Therapy
Skilled spinal and joint manipulation, applied when it's the right tool for what's actually going on in your body, not as a default.
Functional Training & Athlete Assessment
Movement-based assessment and training that gets you back to what you actually do, your sport, your job, or just getting through the day without pain.
Acupuncture & Dry Needling
Targeted needling into myofascial trigger points to reduce pain and restore function, used alongside manual therapy, not instead of it.
Moving you from pain to performance.
Ready to book an assessment?
For injury, pain, rehabilitation or performance, whatever brought you in, the plan starts with understanding how you actually move. Get in touch and we'll find a time that works.
Prefer to talk it through first? Call 021 245 3508.
Book an AssessmentGET IN TOUCH
PURE PERFORMANCE
33 Reece Crescent, Wanaka, 9305
P: 021 245 3508