We are proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Professor Martin Stiles, an alumnus of Hillcrest High School, whose dedication to cardiology has made significant contributions to both medical science and the lives of New Zealand’s elite athletes.
Graduating from Hillcrest High in 1989, Martin initially considered a career in engineering, inspired by his father’s profession. However, his path shifted towards medicine, leading him to the University of Otago’s medical school in Dunedin. There, he discovered his passion for cardiology, appreciating its blend of clinical care and procedural interventions.
After becoming a a cardiologist in 2003, Martin furthered his expertise in Adelaide, Australia, where he completed a PhD in electrophysiology—the study of the heart’s electrical properties. His research focused on atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythms, which is notably prevalent among endurance athletes.
In 2008, Martin returned to New Zealand, bringing his specialised knowledge to Waikato Hospital. His work has been instrumental in treating high-profile athletes, including Olympic gold medalist rower Rob Waddell and kayaker Alicia Hoskin, helping them overcome heart rhythm issues and return to peak performance.
Martin’s contributions extend beyond clinical practice. He was recently appointed as the University of Auckland’s first Professor of Medicine based at Waikato Hospital—a significant milestone recognising his impact on medical research and education. In this role, he mentors approximately 170 medical students annually and leads a team of 20 cardiologists serving a population of around 950,000 in the mid-North Island region.
Reflecting on his journey, Martin shared a touching moment when he encountered Rob Waddell’s family years after treatment. Hearing Waddell’s wife tell their children, “that’s the man who fixed Daddy’s heart,” underscored the profound personal impact of his work.
Beyond his clinical and academic roles, Martin serves as the chair of the New Zealand Division of the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand, influencing cardiology practices nationwide.
Professor Martin Stiles exemplifies the values of dedication, innovation, and service. His journey from a Hillcrest High student to a leader in cardiology serves as an inspiration to our current students and the wider community.
