New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage (Level 5)
Allied Health
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain skills in massage therapy, wellness, and relaxation with this NZQA Level 5 diploma. Cover massage theory, anatomy, business skills, and gain supervised clinic experience to prepare for a career in massage and wellness.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Windermere Campus, Tauranga
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Apply massage therapy techniques
Demonstrate knowledge and application of relaxation and sports massage therapy in supervised settings.
Understand human anatomy and physiology
Gain a solid grounding in human anatomy, musculoskeletal systems and physiological principles relevant to massage.
Demonstrate business and professional skills
Develop professional practice, client-care and business management skills essential for employment or self-employment in massage therapy.
What You're Signing Up For
Discover a rewarding career in massage therapy with the New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage. This one-year, full-time programme covers essential knowledge and skills in anatomy, physiology, therapeutic and sports massage, as well as core business competencies. The course includes real-world experience through supervised clinics and offers specialised content such as Te Hīhiri, which explores the cultural context of massage in Aotearoa. Graduates will be ready for employment or self-employment as massage therapists in diverse settings, including health clinics, spas, sports facilities and more.
Course Content
- Massage Theory to Practice
- Wellness Dimensions and Client-Centred Care
- Musculoskeletal Surface Anatomy
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Sports Massage
- Te Hīhiri (Cultural Competence)
- The Professional Practitioner
- Relaxation and Wellness Massage Clinical Practice
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 with 10 literacy and 10 numeracy credits
Satisfactory police check
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Massage therapy
Health and wellbeing
Sport and recreation
Future employment opportunities might be
Home-based massage therapist
Community based massage therapist
Employment within health care facilities or spa-based massage therapy clinics
Employment within sport and fitness facilities (non-injury work)
Self-employed massage therapist
Work in spas, hotels, cruise ships, or with physiotherapists
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.