Meet the Team
MAXI
Hi, I’m Maxi - the owner of True North.
I wanted to create a welcoming, community-driven space where you can come in, move how you like, and truly enjoy it. A big part of that was making Pilates more accessible - with flexible membership options, and virtual classes to fit into busy lives.
For me, staying active has always been a way to reset and find balance - and I’ve loved creating a space where others can feel that too.
My background is in competitive gymnastics, where I spent over a decade competing and coaching. It’s shaped how I approach movement, with a strong focus on control and quality, which I bring into every class as a qualified Pilates instructor.
My classes are strong, controlled, and full-body - all about moving well and with intention. Expect to be challenged, but always with options to meet you where you’re at, blending both traditional and more dynamic Pilates.
Outside the studio, I’m usually with my dog Blue by the lake in summer, or up in the snow at Cardrona in winter! You’ll find me in the studio teaching most days - come say hi!
Maxi 🤎
Sophie
Hello, I’m Sophie!
Movement has always been a huge part of my life. I spent 20 years in gymnastics, across both artistic and rhythmic, competing nationally and internationally, alongside 18 years of dance. I later moved into coaching gymnastics and dance acrobatics, working with everyone from preschoolers through to competitive and elite athletes.
These years of coaching really shaped the way I teach. I’m patient, detail-focused and love breaking movements down into simple, achievable steps. My classes are intentional, encouraging and technique-focused, with clear cueing and thoughtful progressions.
I’ve now been teaching Reformer Pilates for around 18 months and love the combination of strength, control and precision it requires. I love the challenge of maintaining control through a full range of movement, building strength and stability while also creating a sense of calm and focus.
My academic background is in Sport and Exercise Science, Physiology and Neuroscience. My postgraduate research looked at neuromotor control and how the brain influences precise force output, so I’m endlessly fascinated by how the brain and body work together to create movement.
Outside the studio, you’ll usually find me hiking, café hopping in search of good coffee, painting, getting crafty or playing with flowers 🌷☕️
You can find me at True North on Wednesdays at 7am, 9am, 5pm and 6pm. 🤍
mckayler
Hi, I’m McKayler, I’m super excited to have joined the team at True North!
All my life, I have been involved in exercise, whether it’s playing sport, working at a gym, or teaching pilates - and I love helping others fall in love with movement.
I like to focus on creating a community within my classes. You can expect a supportive yet challenging class, with some nice slow burns, lots of core connection and a place where you feel comfortable.
Outside of the studio, you’ll either find me working as a lawyer at Fyfe Karamaena, or out for a walk in the mountains.
You can usually catch me teaching on Thursday evenings and Friday mornings.
I look forward to you joining me!
AIMEE
Hello, I’m Aimee!
Originally from Australia, I completed my Pilates training in Brisbane and have a passion for movement and helping people feel their best.
In my classes, you can expect a high-energy, hands-on, and inclusive approach, with lots of hype music!
When I’m not in the studio, you’ll find me exploring this beautiful place, getting creative in the kitchen or working on something crafty. Outside of Pilates, I also work as a video editor!
You can find me in the studio on Thursday morning and on a Friday morning taking our Reformer Foundation class at 9 am.
Hope to meet you soon!
chelsea
My love for movement started through dance, and over time I fell in love with Pilates, yoga and strength training. After completing my Mat Pilates certification in 2023, I threw myself straight into teaching. What started as just one or two classes a week quickly turned into wanting to teach as much and as often as I could.
From my classes, clients can expect a class that makes you feel proud of yourself for showing up and completely satisfied in knowing you pushed yourself to your limit once again. My teaching style in a few words is; vibey, playful and encouraging, and if you consider yourself lucky, I might throw in a powerful Pilates pump every once in a while.
I am currently in a stage of my life where I am chasing winters. Skiing is a big passion of mine, which is how I ended up in Wanaka and at True North. Combing my two passions, Pilates and skiing, I get to use my knowledge and expertise to help people with the same love for the snow, by building the type of strength and body awareness necessary to keep up.
You can find me on the mat every Monday at 6PM, and Wednesday at 6AM. I can’t wait to see your beautiful faces there!