The Lower Hutt suburb of Petone has a long tradition of being served by a local dentist. The original Willis building is found on the corner of Jackson and Queen Street. With an ornate facade and beautiful wood-paneled rooms, this building now operates as a fine dining restaurant.
The practice that would become Capital Dental was initially located at 20 Bay Street in a converted house. The dental surgery had two clinical rooms, with the original lounge operating as the waiting room. The kitchen functioned as the on-site laboratory, and x-rays were taken in the closet. Dr. Sarah Sutherland still referred to locally as the divine Sarah, worked here before back and shoulder issues caused her to retire from dentistry.