What is a 'Code of Ethic's'?
A Code of Ethics is a statement encompassing the set of rules based on values and the standards of conduct to which practitioners of a profession are expected to conform too.
The 'Code of Ethics' below is aligned with Massage New Zealand, governing body of any form of Massage Therapy in New Zealand.
Massage Therapy Practitioner Code of Ethics 2025
Client Relationships
Practitioners will:
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Acknowledge the inherent worth and individuality of every client, treating all without discrimination or prejudice.
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Provide appropriate draping and clear explanations to ensure clients’ comfort and privacy.
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Respect clients’ boundaries related to privacy, personal disclosure, emotional expression, and beliefs.
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Obtain informed consent from clients prior to commencing massage therapy.
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Maintain open communication throughout sessions, explaining the rationale for proposed treatments and ensuring ongoing informed consent.
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Serve the best interests of each client and deliver high-quality, evidence-based care.
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Uphold client confidentiality at all times. Information or diagnostic findings will not be shared without the client’s consent, unless required by law or in cases where nondisclosure would pose a threat to the client or others.
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Recognize their own professional limitations and, when necessary, refer clients to appropriately qualified healthcare professionals.
Practitioners will not:
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Compromise the physical, mental, or emotional health, safety, or well-being of any client.
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Engage in any form of sexual conduct with a client.
Scope of Practice and Appropriate Technique
Practitioners will:
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Accurately represent their education, training, qualifications, and abilities.
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Provide treatments that align with both the relevant scope of practice of Massage New Zealand and their own professional competencies.
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Employ techniques that are most appropriate for the client’s condition and therapeutic goals.
Practitioners will not:
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Perform manipulations or adjustments to the skeletal structure, diagnose medical conditions, prescribe treatments, or offer other services beyond their training and authorization.
Professionalism
Practitioners will:
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Refrain from using any mind-altering substances, including drugs and alcohol, before or during treatments.
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Maintain their practice environment in a clean, hygienic condition and in good repair.
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Adhere to personal hygiene and dress code standards to maintain professionalism and avoid causing offense.
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Demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of massage practice.
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Clearly display and/or communicate all clinic policies and fees in advance of services.
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Respect each client’s right to refuse, modify, or terminate massage services at any time, regardless of prior consent.
Practitioners will not:
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Interfere with ongoing treatments initiated by another practitioner.
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Criticize the work of other massage therapists.
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Be affiliated with or employed by any massage business that promotes services using sexual suggestiveness or explicit sexual content.
Image and Advertising Standards
Practitioners will:
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Strive to project a professional image for themselves, their clinic, and the massage therapy profession.
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Prominently display this Code of Ethics within their clinic or practice space for public viewing.
Note: Any absence or omission of practices or values in this Code of Ethics does not imply endorsement of such practices or values. Responsibility for upholding this Code lies with each practitioner.
Concerns and Complaints
If you believe that any part of this Code of Ethics has been breached, please submit your concern in writing to:
The Vice-President
Massage New Zealand Inc
PO Box 4131
HAMILTON EAST
New Zealand
