Dr Janice Vermaak

Bio

Janice trained as a GP in South Africa, completing her MBChB in 2007 and working several years in primary care before moving to New Zealand. She's now based in Palmerston North, focused largely on menopause care for the wider community, and also holds a Certificate in Travel Medicine from the University of Otago (PGCTRAVMED). After a break from practice following the birth of her third child, Janice returned to medicine wanting to focus more deeply on women's health — a decision that sharpened when she began navigating her own unexpected perimenopause symptoms. That experience showed her how confusing this stage of life can be, and led her into further training in menopause medicine. She's now a Certified Menopause Practitioner and member of the Australasian Menopause Society, committed to evidence-based, compassionate care that helps women understand their bodies and make informed decisions. Janice also works as an accredited forensic examiner for MEDSAC, providing trauma-informed forensic medical assessments for patients who have experienced sexual assault, non-fatal strangulation, and suffocation — reflecting her broader commitment to supporting patients through their most vulnerable moments. Alongside this, she has a strong interest in lifestyle medicine, helping women optimise their health through nutrition, exercise, and sustainable lifestyle change. Outside medicine, Janice is a wife and mother of three, a strong advocate for strength training and healthy ageing, and recently completed her first half marathon and doubles HYROX event — all in pursuit of one goal: to be a fit, active 80-year-old one day. "I understand that when women are struggling with symptoms and not feeling like themselves, every aspect of life can be affected. No woman should have to navigate menopause alone, and I feel privileged to support women through this rollercoaster ride. I often say it truly takes a village — and I am honoured to be part of yours."

Special interests