It’s not until you have a personal requirement for mobility equipment or home care items that you understand how important they are to the older sector or those facing health challenges, whether they are for you or a family member. A brand-new store has opened up on the Shore that makes finding and trying products and devices a whole lot easier. Livewell on Tawa Drive in Albany is a beautifully curated store that is more than just a retail space; it’s a place to discover stylish, high-quality products that support independent, active living at every stage of life. 

Livewell has been created by local North Shore family business, Allied Medical, owned by the Noble family. Allied Medical has been a trusted name in healthcare equipment for over 25 years. As the official importer of leading international brands and a long-time supplier to both ACC and Disability Support Services (DSS), they bring deep clinical expertise and proven reliability to everything they do. 
“We’ve created the Livewell store concept to make independence easier, more enjoyable and more accessible,” explained managing director Katie Noble when we met at the big new store during September. 
“At Livewell, we have the very best equipment that’s backed by real clinical knowledge, and delivered with a human touch. We’ve got lots to see and parking right at the door.” 
Katie was keen to emphasise that when you shop with Livewell, you're buying directly from the source. That means no middlemen, no guesswork – just genuine products, expert guidance and full peace of mind. 
“Our close partnerships with therapists, support organisations, aged care providers and local communities help us understand your needs and recommend what’s truly right for you. 
“We’re here to make independence easier, more enjoyable and more accessible – with the very best equipment, backed by real clinical knowledge, and delivered with a human touch.
“We believe ageing should be celebrated, not hidden away. That’s why we’ve handpicked ranges from the world’s most trusted and forward-thinking manufacturers. Products that combine function with elegance, sought after by people who value quality, comfort and style.” 
This new store really is retail reimagined. Katie and her team have flipped the script on traditional mobility and aged-care stores, creating a beautifully curated space where function meets style. 
In store, you’ll find a dedicated and experienced team led by store manager Kylie Burrowes and technician Dean Jenkins. Katie says the Livewell ethos is all about being ‘outrageously helpful’. From scooter driving lessons to bathroom safety audits, they go far beyond the sale to make life easier.  They know that people don't have experience in buying the products they sell, so it’s all about making it super easy.
“Our team combines in-depth product knowledge with genuine care, tailoring solutions to meet each person’s unique needs.  There is no hard sell – it's about learning what options are available and allowing families to consider possible solutions that will work best for them.
“Livewell is a place to try. Customers can touch, test and trial products in-store – from walkers to powerchairs – and we'll also bring products to people's homes so they can try in situ. We are dedicated to helping older adults who wish to live independently, whether in their own homes or a lifestyle village, with products that enhance everyday life, making it safer and easier.
“Our range will continually evolve. We’re continually seeking out innovative products that help ageing adults stay active, independent and confident.”
Livewell has been created to be more than a place to shop; the team wants it to be a place where the community connects. That’s why there are hot desk workspaces that can be used by the occupational therapists and physiotherapists they work with, a meeting room that can be used for community groups, and they also welcome organisations to organise group visits.  
Livewell also offers a range of home care and mobility equipment for short-term rentals. This option is ideal for when someone is recovering from surgery or an accident. Katie and her team helped me back in 2021 when I rented a portable mobility scooter while recovering from my own health issues.
Having a lovely store like Livewell, with all the products and expertise, will certainly make things so much easier. Make sure you visit Kylie and Dean – they are excited to show off their sensational new store!

Livewell – Unit 12, 2 Tawa Drive, Albany 
– easy parking right at the door. 
Open Tuesday to Friday, 9am–5pm
Saturday, 10am–2pm
info@livewell.co.nz, 09 869 6760 
livewell.co.nz