Are you thinking about starting a rewarding career as a massage therapist in New Zealand? If you enjoy working with your hands and providing positive experiences for clients, this occupation may be right for you!
Before you open your own massage business and assist your first patient, it is important you understand the industry and requirements, as well as consider insurance for massage therapists. Let’s take a look at what massage therapy entails and the minimum standards of practice.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is the practice of relieving pain through the manipulation of the body’s soft tissue. Pressure is applied to muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments in order to reduce feelings of pain, tension or stress. This can be done with a massage therapist’s hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, knees and even feet.
Massage therapists can also use a variety of electric and manual tools such as massage balls and rollers, hot stones and massage guns to aid their therapy. Massage oils and body moisturisers are often applied to a client’s skin to reduce friction and allow for a smoother treatment, as well as enhance relaxation through pleasant scents.
Overall, the role of a massage therapist is to provide a safe environment for their clients where they can listen to their concerns, respond with appropriate treatment and offer advice when needed.
Why Should You Become a Massage Therapist?
There are a number of reasons to consider pursuing a career in the massage therapy industry. If you are a caring, nurturing and friendly person who loves hands-on work, this may be a great job for you. Here are the top reasons to become a massage therapist in New Zealand.
- Develop Your Skills
To be a great massage therapist, you also need some soft skills. You must have the ability to listen to your patient’s concerns, be sensitive and respond to their needs. Massage therapists often work with people of all backgrounds, so you should be comfortable talking to anyone and everyone! Massage treatments are personalised to each person’s needs, so open communication, compassion and understanding is important.
If you have a background in nursing, physical activity (like sports or yoga) or natural healing, these are great transferable skills and may bring unique insights to your massage therapy. However, it is also a good idea to undertake accredited massage therapy courses. This will teach you specific pain-reducing techniques, ways to boost bodily functions like circulation, and tips to reduce stress and tension. It’s advisable for massage therapists to have a good understanding of anatomy and physiology, as well as be physically fit, as the job requires significant energy.
- Good Salary and Job Perks
One of the appeals of massage therapy is the attractive salary and the ability to work when and where you want. Entry-level massage therapist positions in New Zealand start at around $52,000 per year, with more experienced therapists earning over $91,000 per year. Depending upon how many clients you take on and the technical knowledge you possess, the potential for salary growth is substantial!
If you open your own massage business, clients can travel to your property and you can set your own hours of operation. Keep in mind that many massage therapists will work on weekends. Like any small business, operating your own massage therapy practice isn’t without unique risks. Before serving your first client, consider massage therapist insurance.
- Highly Rewarding
If you’ve always wanted to be your own boss and run your own small business, beginning your own massage therapy clinic is a great opportunity. If you enjoy helping others, connecting with people and hands-on work, becoming a massage therapist could be very rewarding on a personal level. Once you have your massage therapist insurance set up, you can begin providing first-class experiences for your customers and invest in the right tools and skills to grow your client base. Make sure to collect positive reviews to be used in your business advertising!
Massage Therapy Requirements
Whilst there are no mandatory requirements to become a massage therapist in New Zealand, the industry body Massage New Zealand recommends the following:
- A First-Aid Certificate
- A Certificate in Therapeutic Massage
The massage certificate must be issued from a provider authorised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. There are multiple training courses available through polytechnics and private institutions. You can gain a diploma in areas such as remedial massage, wellness and relaxation, or even a Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage.
Ensure you keep your first aid licence up to date, as it must be revalidated every two years.
Insurance for Massage Therapists
Your reputation is everything as a massage therapist, and you worked hard to earn it, so ensure that it is protected! There are a few types of insurance available to massage therapists in New Zealand which can shield you from things such as claims of third-party injury to loss or damage to your supplies. Not only will insurance provide you with peace of mind, but it will also assure your clients that you are covered if things go awry. Get in touch with BizCover today to get your massage therapist insurance sorted!
* This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording.
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