Inspired by Janes’s story?
Share your skills and support others through our Mentorship Directory. If you’re an experienced therapist ready to guide colleagues, from new grads to those shifting their practice, we’d love you to put your name forward.  Email admin@massagenewzealand.org.nz to join.

I completed my Diploma in Allied Therapies with the sports option, in Panmure, Auckland at the NZ college of massage in the late 90’s, with Susan Penman and Gail Wolfe.
My goal was to travel with sports teams as their massage therapist. I travelled and worked for numerous sports teams for a couple of years then settled in Hamilton. It took me a while to build a client base operating out of a women’s only gym and sometimes doubted if I could make a career of it, but persistence and belief in myself got me through that first year of business. 25 years later and a great referral network with a large loyal client base, I now own two massage therapy clinics in Hamilton with 10 amazing therapists working alongside me.

"My brother was a talented Golfer, and I would have to follow him around the golf course as a kid. He would sometimes get a pain in his back, so in between swings I would give his back a click. Obviously not knowing what I was doing, got me curious as to why he would always have that discomfort."

"Practice Values and Ethical Conduct. Working alongside other therapists with varied backgrounds and training can bring extra value to the clinic, sharing their knowledge and experience with us all. As a collective we all have the same understanding of our core values and ethical standards."

"The ability to be able to adapt and connect with their client. This comes when you are feeling at your best. To be able to maintain this, we need to acknowledge how we are feeling within ourselves, if you’re not feeling 100% you’re not going to give 100% to your clients. Always great to share with your team to be able to find your balance again."

"I have always been into health and wellbeing with off road running being my jam for mental clarity. I had twins at 42 so found that a huge challenge in my life and running help me get through this period. Ten years on, I’m still looking for challenges but not so intense for my body. "

"that deep pressure is best….. if I can’t feel it, it can’t be helping!"

"Being able to adapt to your clients needs by being a good listener, regularly check in throughout the massage "

"We have an extensive referral base as my massage clinic has been operating for over 25 years. It takes time to build but definitely important to have other health care professionals in your circle."

" I always tell people; I have been so lucky with my career. I have never wanted to change my occupation. The best feeling is seeing a changed client walk out of the clinic after arriving full of pain. The therapists I have worked with over the years at the clinic have all been incredible people that have helped build my clinic to what it is today. "

"Not always being valued as a health professional. My main reason for building my clinic was to keep the professionalism in massage therapy. Sometimes I think it would have been easier working from home on my own with low costs but I believe operating from a clinic maintains a high standard of professionalism. "

"GO FOR IT ! "

Jane’s story reflects the dedication and professionalism that sustain a long and rewarding career in massage therapy. From her early days building a client base to now leading two busy clinics in Hamilton, she shows the value of persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to high standards. Her journey is a reminder of how much the profession grows when experienced therapists share their knowledge and uphold strong professional values.

As we celebrate members like Jane, we also invite experienced therapists to step into mentorship. If you’re in a position to guide, support, or share your expertise with newer therapists or those navigating a career shift, consider joining our Mentorship Directory. By connecting with colleagues across regions and experience levels, you can help grow the next generation of skilled, confident, and culturally aware massage professionals.

To learn more or add your name to the directory, contact admin@massagenewzealand.org.nz