Massage

Our talented massage therapists are all about providing the right massage to suit your needs

 

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HANDS ON MASSAGE & MLD THERAPISTS

Hans Lutters

Hands On / Clinical Director - Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Director

Massage & Lymphatics Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Qualification in Vodder level 1 and 2
  • Qualification in Vodder level 3 – in progress (September 2025)
  • Certified in Casley Smith
  • Certified in Dry needling (Joannes Boele van Hensbroek)
  • Accredited provider for High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) and the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) since 2014
  • Member of the NZOC health team since 2014
  • Associate member of the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Hans Lutters is a highly respected Massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Therapist, recognised for his clinical expertise, leadership, and commitment to advancing care in his field. Originally from the Netherlands, Hans gained his foundational qualifications in Massage Therapy and MLD before relocating to Christchurch, New Zealand in 2007. Soon after, he established Hands On Clinic, a thriving centre for lymphatic and massage therapy.

Working alongside a trusted multidisciplinary team at the Sports Clinic in Christchurch, Hans and his team collaborate with podiatrists, physiotherapists, doctors, and chiropractors to deliver integrated, patient-centred care. With over two decades of clinical experience, he specialises in the treatment of primary and secondary lymphoedema, lipoedema, and chronic pain, applying a broad range of therapeutic skills to improve patient outcomes.

Hans is a member of the Massage Association of New Zealand (MANZ) and an associate member of the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA). He is an accredited provider for High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) and a long-standing member of the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) Core Health team, having proudly served as a massage therapist at every Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games since 2014. This includes:

·         2014 Commonwealth Games – Glasgow

·         2016 Olympic Games – Rio de Janeiro

·         2018 Commonwealth Games – Gold Coast

·         2021 Olympic Games – Tokyo

·         2022 Commonwealth Games – Birmingham

·         2024 Olympic Games – Paris

Initially trained in the Vodder method in the Netherlands, Hans furthered his expertise in New Zealand and Australia, completing additional training in Casley Smith and Vodder techniques. He is a qualified Level 1 & 2 Vodder therapist and is set to achieve his Level 3 Vodder qualification in September 2025. His treatment approach incorporates Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), Kinesio taping, compression therapy, specialist bandaging, and patient education.

Recognising the limited training opportunities in MLD for massage therapists in New Zealand, Hans launched the Hands On Lymphatic Drainage Level 1 & 2 training courses in 2009. Drawing on over 20 years of practice and research, these courses equip health practitioners and physical wellness professionals with consistent, evidence-informed techniques, empowering them to assess and treat clients effectively. Hans’ dedication to professional education has raised the standard of MLD practice nationwide, benefitting countless patients and communities.

Whether working with elite athletes or those seeking relief from long-term illness, his focus remains the same: improving quality of life, promoting recovery, and sharing the benefits of MLD and massage therapy through both treatment and education.

Book an appointment with Hans
Shannon Wilson

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Shannon is a professional and knowledgeable massage and lymphatics therapist, valued for her caring, calm, and kind approach. Dedicated to supporting her clients’ wellbeing, she combines her expertise with a genuine warmth that puts people at ease from the moment they meet her.

In 2017, she graduated with Distinction in a Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy, building a strong foundation in advanced massage techniques. Her passion for helping others is also shaped by her personal experience supporting her mother through a cancer journey, giving her a deep understanding of the physical and emotional challenges that can come with illness and recovery.

A keen gym-goer and running enthusiast, Shannon’s active lifestyle brings valuable insight into movement, performance, and recovery. She has completed several half marathons and understands first-hand the demands of training, making her especially attuned to the needs of active clients.

Outside the clinic, Shannon is a proud and busy mum of three little ones yet still finds time to keep up her running and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.

Book an appointment with Shannon
Wendy Carpenter

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

 

Background

Wendy is a professional and knowledgeable massage and lymphatics therapist, valued for her punctuality, thorough treatments, and dedication to her clients. With extensive experience in both massage therapy and lymphatic drainage, she delivers tailored treatments that promote recovery, improve mobility, and enhance overall wellbeing. 

In 2021, she graduated with Excellence in a Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy and has since completed Level I and II Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) training, combining her skills to provide a comprehensive, client-focused approach.

Her approach is shaped by a wealth of life experience, giving her a genuine understanding of the different challenges people face on their health and wellness journeys. A former competitive swimmer, Wendy developed an early appreciation for the benefits of hands-on care and found remedial massage to be the most effective for recovery and performance.

Wendy is also a proud mother of two young men who excel both academically and in sport. Outside the clinic, she enjoys rowing and travelling, embracing an active and outdoors lifestyle.

Book an appointment with Wendy
Alana Parsons

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Certified in Dry Needling – Advanced Clinical Education (ACE)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Alana is a highly skilled and knowledgeable massage and lymphatics therapist, dedicated to helping clients feel their best. With a calm and friendly nature, she quickly puts people at ease, creating a comfortable space where clients can relax and benefit fully from her expertise.

Her professional approach is backed by extensive training in massage and lymphatic therapy, allowing her to tailor each treatment to meet individual needs – whether that’s reducing swelling, supporting recovery, or promoting overall wellbeing. Clients value not only her technical skills but also her genuine care and warm, approachable manner.

Outside the clinic, Alana is a busy mum of three active teenagers, cheering them on at hockey, rugby, and rowing events. Her understanding of active lifestyles and the demands they place on the body gives her a unique insight into supporting both everyday wellness and athletic performance.

With Alana, you can expect exceptional care, professional expertise, and a truly personalised experience that supports your health and wellbeing.

Book an appointment with Alana
Katy Pheloung

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatics Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Katy is a dedicated and outgoing massage and lymphatics therapist whose warm personality and sense of humour instantly put clients at ease. She loves the variety her work brings, from supporting athletes to perform at their peak to helping lymphatics clients improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

With a passion for both performance and recovery, Katy tailors her treatments to meet each client’s individual needs, whether that’s optimising athletic performance, assisting with post-event recovery, or providing specialised lymphatic care. Her approachable nature and genuine care create a positive and motivating experience in every session.

Outside of work, Katy is highly social and enjoys the good life, spending time with friends and family and making the most of every moment.

Book an appointment with Katy
Elisia Bena Vattuone

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Currently studying towards a Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Health along the pathway to a Postgraduate Diploma in Osteopathy
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Certified in Myofascial Cupping - Nicci Blain
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Elisia prides herself on creating a relaxing and therapeutic experience for her clients, with the goal of helping people achieve comfort and balance in their everyday lives. She completed her Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage in 2021, quickly building a reputation for her caring approach and effective treatments.

Her career began in Auckland, where she established her own business within a Chiropractic Clinic. There, she worked closely with clients to complement their chiropractic care, supporting a wide range of people – from aspiring marathon runners to busy office workers. In 2022, her skills took her to Europe, where she gained work experience alongside the physio team for an America’s Cup sailing crew, helping elite athletes maintain peak condition during demanding training schedules.

Since moving to Christchurch, Elisia has expanded her expertise, completing her Remedial Massage Diploma. She is passionate about helping clients perform at their best in all aspects of life, empowering them through massage to restore both body and mind to a state of equilibrium.

Outside the clinic, Elisia loves being out in nature, reading, and exploring new places.

Book an appointment with Elisia
Anna Young

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatics Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ) 
  • Working towards a Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage (Level 7), Southern Institute of Technology, Invercargill
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Fascia IQ Myofascial Release (MFR) Foundations and Advanced Upper and Lower Body
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Anna is a professional and knowledgeable massage and lymphatic therapist, known for her empathy, thoroughness, and unwavering dedication to her clients. She takes the time to truly listen, assess each individual’s needs, and tailor each treatment to ensure the best possible results, whether supporting recovery, managing lymphatic conditions, or promoting overall wellbeing.

Having personally undergone treatment for breast cancer, Anna brings a deep and compassionate understanding to her work. This lived experience gives her a unique perspective and empathy when working with clients recovering from surgery, managing lymphoedema, or navigating the emotional and physical challenges of treatment. Her blend of personal insight and professional skill allows her to provide both exceptional care and genuine emotional support.

Outside the clinic, Anna finds joy and balance in the outdoors. She enjoys New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes through tramping, skiing, horse-riding and being out on the water, passions that keep her active and connected to nature. 

Book an appointment with Anna
Simon Kerr

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatics Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6, Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Simon is a dedicated massage and lymphatics therapist with a strong focus on movement, quality of life, recovery, and sports performance. His treatments are tailored to support clients at all levels, from everyday mobility, pain relief and lymphatic care to injury prevention and athletic performance.

With expertise across a wide range of massage therapy modalities, Simon helps clients manage pain, reduce stress, improve mobility, and support lymphatic health. As a passionate and experienced runner, Simon understands the physical demands of training and competition first-hand. This insight allows him to work effectively with active clients and athletes, offering targeted massage therapy that aids recovery, reduces injury risk, and optimises performance.

Since graduating from SIT in 2024, Simon has brought both his clinical expertise and a warm, client-centred approach to the Hands On team. He combines professional knowledge with personal experience to help each client achieve their goals, always tailoring his care to individual needs.

Outside of work, Simon enjoys distance running, staying active and continually expanding his knowledge as part of his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

Book an appointment with Simon
Kirstie Smitheram

Hands On/ Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatics Therapist

  • Registered Massage Therapist (Level 6), Massage Aotearoa New Zealand (MANZ)
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)
  • Accredited provider for Southern Cross and other insurances

Background

Kirstie is a qualified Remedial Massage and Lymphatics Therapist, known for her warmth, calm presence, and deep passion for helping others feel their best. She has worked with athletes pre- and post-event and throughout recovery, clients managing chronic pain and injury rehabilitation, and those navigating post-surgical recovery and cancer care, bringing both clinical skill and genuine empathy to every session.

Kirstie's journey into massage was inspired by her mother's recovery from stage 4 bowel cancer, an experience that gave her a deep appreciation for the role wellness practices play in supporting both body and mind. After a successful career in the corporate world, she followed her passion for health and wellbeing wholeheartedly and that commitment shows in the care she brings to each client. 

Outside the clinic, Kirstie embraces the same commitment to movement she encourages in others. You'll find her on the yoga mat, training for her next half marathon, or enjoying a bluebird day at Mt Hutt.

Book an appointment with Kirstie
Klaudia South

Hands On / Massage Therapist

  • Qualified Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) Level 5
  • Working towards becoming a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) level 6 – Graduation expected December 2025
  • Working towards certification in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level I & II)– completion expected November 2025


Background

Klaudia is a professional and dedicated Massage, with a strong foundation in sports performance, recovery, and overall wellbeing.

She is passionate about helping people from all walks of life, whether it is athletes striving for peak performance, or individuals seeking improved mobility and pain management. Klaudia takes a client-centred approach for every treatment, while keeping sessions enjoyable and light-hearted. Always eager to learn more and upskill, she strives to understand the different needs of every client. Her professional experience includes working with athletes in Super Rugby, the NRL, and Coast to Coast competitors.

Outside of the clinic, she leads a very active lifestyle and brings first-hand experience of knowing what it takes to balance training, performance, work, and recovery. For the past seven years she has played premier Rugby, including representing the Tasman Mako women for two seasons. She isn’t shy to give any sport a good nudge such as completing the two-person two-day coast to coast (2023), competed in CrossFit competitions, competitive netball seasons, and many more. If she’s not somewhere outdoors, she’ll be in the gym.

Book an appointment with Klaudia
Alyssa Blacktopp

Hands On / Massage Therapist

Having completed her Level 5 Diploma in Massage Therapy, Alyssa is qualified in relaxation and wellness massage and will commence her Level 6 Diploma in Remedial Massage in 2026. Alyssa has a strong interest in sports performance and recovery, while working with a wide range of clients, from active individuals to those simply looking to move and feel better in everyday life. Her treatments are tailored to manage fatigue, address tightness and overload, support mobility, and help the body cope with training demands.

Background

Alyssa’s pathway into massage reflects a long-standing interest in healthcare alongside a competitive sporting background. She volunteers with St John New Zealand and brings a practical, hands-on understanding of the body under physical stress into her work. Outside of the clinic, Alyssa has an extensive sporting background, having played hockey at a national level for the Tasman Tigers over three seasons and competed in endurance events including the Coast to Coast as part of a two-person team. She continues to train regularly, giving her first-hand insight into training load, recovery, and performance, which she then applies to her work with clients.

Book an appointment with Alyssa
Karin Gosek

Hands On / Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

Massage & Lymphatic Drainage Therapist

  • Qualified Massage Therapist
  • Certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level 1 & 2)
  • Master’s Degree in Exercise and Sports Science (Completed June 2025)

Background

Karin is a professional and dedicated massage and lymphatic therapist, known for her warmth, expertise, and ability to build genuine connections with her clients. She brings fresh energy, a calm presence, and a genuine passion for helping people feel lighter, more relaxed, and confident in their bodies. Karin is always eager to learn, expand her skills, and bring new techniques to enhance the client experience.

Karin recently completed her Master’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science in June 2025, after studying for the past five years at university in the United States. Her academic background, combined with her experience as a professional athlete, gives her a unique understanding of the body, movement, and recovery. She competed internationally in the 3000m steeplechase, representing her country at European and World Championships, and is a National Champion in her event. Her years of high-performance training and recovery routines have given her first-hand insight into what the body needs to perform, recover, and thrive.

Karin is certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Hands On MLD Level 1 & 2) and takes a client-centred approach, tailoring every session to the individual, whether it’s for relaxation, recovery, swelling management, or overall wellbeing. Clients often comment on her ability to make them feel understood, supported, and motivated during every session.

Outside of work, Karin is an adrenaline enthusiast who loves all sports and adventure. She spends much of her free time trail running, hiking, and exploring the mountains. She is also committed to lifelong learning and professional development, continually expanding her knowledge to provide the best care for her clients.

Please note, Karin is not yet eligible for Southern Cross Insurance Claiming.

Book an appointment with Karin
Photography by Paul Petch 4

Massage therapy

Treatment description

Your massage therapist will use a variety of techniques best suited to your condition.  All of our therapists have extensive post-graduate training. During your appointment, we will discuss the technique they feel is the most appropriate. It may vary from deep tissue, relaxation, lymphatic drainage, dry needling, to other most used styles of massage.

Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, increase your sports performance, or getting some much-needed relaxation, the professionally trained and registered Christchurch massage therapists at Sports Clinic will cater for your therapeutic needs. 

 What can this service help you with?

  • Massage therapy relaxes muscles

  • Easing and soothing aches and pains

  • It rejuvenates and helps to restore balance to body and being

  • Making us better for all the things life throws our way

 

Flowpresso IPC Suit

flowpresso

Experience advanced recovery and fluid management with the Flowpresso Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) Suit — an innovative therapy designed to enhance circulation and support lymphatic function.

Flowpresso is particularly beneficial for individuals managing lymphoedema, lipoedema, and other fluid retention conditions, helping to reduce swelling, improve tissue health, and promote overall wellbeing. By gently stimulating the lymphatic and circulatory systems, it assists the body in moving excess fluid more effectively.
It is also suitable for post-injury rehabilitation and athletic recovery where enhanced circulation and recovery support are desired.

Restore balance, reduce swelling, and feel the difference — book your Flowpresso session today.

Hans olympic

Our difference

Why Sports clinic Massage

Our team works with a variety of athletes in their practice, from weekend warriors to elite athletes. Their experience and knowledge will help you gain the optimal results in your sport. We also have accredited Academy of Sport providers – ask them if you qualify.

All our Massage Therapists have extensive post-graduate training. During your appointment, they will discuss the technique they feel is the most appropriate for you. It may vary from Deep Tissue, Relaxation, Lymphatic Drainage, Dry Needling, to other most used styles of massage.

Hans Lutters (photo left) is the director and owner of Sports Clinic Massage and has been providing massage services at the last 3 Olympic games in Rio, Tokyo and Paris to our amazing Kiwi athletes. You can book to see Hans and his team and receive the same great services as our Olympic athletes. 

WHAT TYPES OF MASSAGES ARE AVAILABLE?

You can choose from a number of different types of massage, from soft and relaxing to targeted and deep tissue.

See our styles of massage for more styles and information:

Sports Massage
Designed to support all athletes in competition, training and off-season phases. Specific techniques are utilized to maximize performance.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage releases tension in the body through applying slow deep pressure to the deeper layers of muscles.
Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, non-invasive technique that has a powerful effect on the body. The skin is stretched and torqued in a specific manner, based on scientific, physiological principles that have proven to encourage lymph flow. Lymphatic Drainage is commonly used on (lymph)oedema and chronic pain.
Myofascial Release
The therapist uses gentle sustained pressure to release fascia (surrounds the muscle) to help improve flexibility, reduce pain and increase circulation.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage is aimed at relaxing the pregnant woman and promoting health by applying light to moderate pressure to areas of discomfort. (usually in the side-lying position).
Relaxation/Swedish
A relaxation massage uses light to moderate strokes to release tension, and stress, to balance the mind body and soul.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy involves applying pressure to tender areas in the muscle (knots) in order to relieve pain and dysfunction which is often felt by other parts of the body.
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)
NMT is a holistic form of massage that aims to restore the body’s correct postural balance to help alleviate the area of soft tissue pain. Injuries and chronic pain may be prevented with this technique.

Frequently asked questions

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Start your recovery journey now!

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