Meet Our Team
Stenersen & Kain Opticians was formed in December 1993 and has been providing high quality eye care to Tairawhiti Gisborne ever since.
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Our friendly team loves helping our clients see their world more clearly. We believe that understanding your eye health is essential, which is why we take the time to explain what we see and what it means—so you can feel confident in your care.
Steve Stenersen Dispensing Optician
Originally from Auckland, Steve has been working in the industry since 1978, beginning his journey in an optical lab grinding lenses and making glasses. This foundation has allowed Steve to think out of the box for complex cases and repairs. More than once he has been referred to as MacGyver!
Over the years, Steve has been nominated for many awards including IOA Optician of the Year finalist, ADONZ Directors Award and Life Member.
In his spare time, Steve enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and camping.
Sue Kain Dispensing Optician
Sue completed her optical studies top of her class in 1998. Sue loves to help provide the best possible vision to her clients.
Our go to for the academic questions, Sue is a wealth of knowledge about physics and maths.
Sue loves gardening, crocheting, and her old Jack Russell Dora.
Unfortunately, due to an injury Sue is not currently in the practice, though she continues to keep up with her education and looks forward to the day she can return.
Sanjay Jairam Optometrist
Sanjay completed his Bachelor of Optometry through Auckland University. Originally committing to one year with Sue and Steve, Sanjay has remained with the team ever since.
Sanjay has undertaken many extra courses and loves to continue his education. He has special interests in managing glaucoma and therapeutic cases. Sanjay is ACC and CAA accredited.
In his spare time, Sanjay enjoys spending time with his family and furthering his studies.
Rosie Stenersen-Kain Dispensing Optician
Our most recent qualified Dispensing Optician, Rosie completed her studies top of her class in 2025. As the youngest child of Sue and Steve, Rosie has been in the practice since day one.
Rosie studied at Waikato University to obtain her Bachelor of Science and Master of Applied Psychology in Behaviour Analysis. Combining her knowledge of optics with psychology, Rosie has recently undertaken an Irlen Screening course (see our website for more info on tints and Irlen Syndrome).
Outside of work, Rosie enjoys pottery, spending time with family, and training her dog Maggie.
Dawn Mennie Reception / Admin
Dawn is the friendly face that greets you when you arrive at Stenersen & Kain Opticians. She is always happy to go the extra mile for our clients.
Having had glasses since a young age, Dawn has always been interested in eyes. Joining the team in 2024, she is looking forward to starting her studies and becoming a qualified Dispensing Optician.
Dawn enjoys gaming, reading, and spending time with her adorable ragdoll cat Ted.
Give our friendly team a call on 06 867 5465