New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage (Level 5)

Did you know that incorrect massage techniques could damage a client’s well-being instead of help them? This 36-week programme teaches you all types of massage that can be used, how to apply them and why.

The human body is a complex masterpiece. During this diploma you’re taught the anatomy and physiology of a healthy body, the different types of massage techniques that can be applied and how each of these can affect a person’s well-being. 

You’ll learn about massage theory and practise how to apply it on clients, as well as receive these massage techniques yourself to understand how each technique feels during the massage and the after-effects.

Our classrooms are intentionally small in size, so that you get more attention and support at every step of your learning journey. You’ll be taught on campus with a qualified tutor who will ensure that your new found massage techniques and understanding of the human anatomy is correctly applied in theory and during the actual massage. In addition to this hands-on classroom learning, you’ll have access to e-learning where you can solidify your understanding with assessments and online quizzes set for your class. 

Massage is a passive form of exercise, so believe it or not – there are some physical requirements to this programme which our team will discuss with you upon your enrolment.

If you haven't studied for a while and want to ease into learning, see our Level 4 Certificate in study and career preparation for massage. 

Programme Objectives

The Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage is a 36-week programme that gives you the understanding, skills and attributes of a successful wellness and relaxation massage therapist.

Graduates of this qualification are open to a number of possible career paths such as self-employment, or working alongside other professionals in a multi-health practice (e.g. physiotherapy, acupuncture, osteopathy or medical centres) or rest homes and rehabilitation centres for the purpose of relaxation.

This programme can even provide amazing travelling opportunities to work on cruise ships, spas, resorts, hotels, ski-fields, gymnasiums, on-site corporates and much more. 

Key Components

Key components of the Diploma include:

• Normal anatomy and physiological functioning of each of the human body systems and how they underpin massage therapy practice
• Musculoskeletal anatomy and relevant surface anatomy to provide a theoretical and practical foundation for wellness and relaxation practice
• Client assessment, session planning, evaluation and management, including goal management, evidence base for choice of intervention, safety considerations, ethical and professional and cultural requirements
• Wellness and relaxation therapy interventions, including: relaxation massage techniques; wellness techniques; muscle- specific massage techniques; healthcare programming for stress and wellness interventions; and client education
• Underpinning knowledge: history of massage; body mechanics and practitioner self-care practices; principles of massage; evidence-based effects of massage therapy (including indications and contraindications); stress and wellness theory; stress management;scope of practice; ethical considerations; professionalism; professionalization; multicultural practice; Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Massage Therapy Practicals

Our work placements are designed to prepare students for work in real world environments such as Spas and Massage Therapy Clinics. 

Our students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of practical opportunities to enhance their experience base. The ability to practice in-class learning is essential, and many work placements require home-based study.

All work placements involve standard industry practices and processes. Students will have an opportunity to practice through a selection of work placements. These work placements are based upon wellness and relaxation massage learning experiences and intended to reinforce in-class practical tuition. Work placements are assessed through methodologies such as:

• In-class practicals
• Client Information Collection
• Case Study / Integration
• Student Clinic Hours
• Community Placements

Students are encouraged to practice on a wide range of clients to consolidate learnings.