Three generations caring for Nelson's eyes

For more than 65 years, Matthews Eyecare has been a shining example of excellence in optometry, proudly recognised as New Zealand’s largest privately owned independent optometry group. This family-owned business from Nelson has built a legacy over three generations enabling New Zealanders to access high quality eyewear and eyecare since 1957.

Matthews Eyecare operates out of 26 locations stretching from Kerikeri to Invercargill. 150 employees nationwide, including 40 optometrists skilled in various specialties are committed to providing care-focused services that are accessible to all New Zealanders. In the top of the South, Matthews Eyecare is particularly proud to be the only New Zealand-owned optometrists, demonstrating their commitment to preserving independent optometry in Nelson. Their three stores in the Nelson CBD, including Kuske and Matthews Sports Vision, as well as stores in Blenheim, Richmond, Motueka, and the new addition of a regular clinic in Takaka reflect their dedication to the area.

The journey of Matthews Eyecare began in the 1950s when Bill Matthews, a former physical education teacher turned optometry apprentice, stumbled upon Nelson. Captivated by the city’s charm, he sent a telegram in 1956 to his wife Dorothy, inviting her to join him in this newfound paradise. In March 1957, they opened the doors of Matthews Opticians in the historic Hotel Nelson Building on Hardy Street. Bill and Dorothy likened the optics industry to a close-knit family where connections, respect, and fun were inherent. Their son, Phil, grew up surrounded by this camaraderie, emphasising the industry’s supportive nature and the relationships it fostered.

Phil and Lynley Matthews, Bill’s son and daughter-in- law, assumed leadership in 1985. By the time Bill Matthews retired in 2004, Matthews had expanded to four practices, and the emergence of corporatized optometry was beginning to transform the optics landscape in New Zealand. Confronted with significant challenges, Phil and Lyn have successfully driven and developed Matthews Eyecare over the past 40 years.

The team at Matthews Eyecare is well-versed in the latest practices and technologies in eyewear and eye care, ensuring that every patient receives the highest standard of care with personalised and tailored solutions.

Understanding that eyes are often the first feature others notice, Matthews Eyecare emphasises the importance of framing them ethically and beautifully. Their passionate team carefully curates a stunning collection of eyewear, offering a wide range of frames and sunglasses, from bold statement pieces to those of timeless style. In alignment with their values, Matthews sees the importance of cultivating relationships with true artisans dedicated to preserving traditional eyewear manufacturing while incorporating modern innovations and more sustainable practices. These partnerships include Theo, a second-generation family business from Belgium; Morel, a fifth-generation family business from France; and Frost, a husband-and-wife duo based in Germany.

Looking ahead, Matthews Eyecare is now led by a new generation. CEO Michael Cochrane, a fellow Nelsonian, along with Phil and Lyn’s children, Julian Matthews and Emma Ellison, brings fresh insights while honouring the legacy established by Bill and Dorothy Matthews. Their focus on community connections and individualised care continues to propel Matthews Eyecare forward.

This November, they hosted their inaugural company-wide conference in Nelson, a gathering dedicated to recognizing the contributions of their team of over 150 members and celebrating their shared commitment to the industry. Matthews Eyecare is also thrilled to sponsor The Spectacle, a new running festival scheduled for December. This exciting event features an elite mile through the streets of central Nelson and an ultra-trail run in the breathtaking hills behind the city. The aim is for The Spectacle to become a cornerstone of the active lifestyle for which Nelson is becoming increasingly renowned, inspiring both residents and visitors to embrace the great outdoors.

In a world that often feels impersonal, Matthews Eyecare remains devoted to building genuine connections and ensuring that every patient or customer feels valued, and every visit is memorable.

The Matthews family emphasises that their business is, and always will be, centered on relationships. With a vision to protect and sustain independent optometry, Matthews Eyecare is poised to continue serving Nelson and beyond for many more years to come.

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