How to set up a Websta profile as a massage therapist in New Zealand

What your Websta profile should contain

Your profile page is where clients land when they search for massage therapy near them. It replaces the need for a separate website. Include a clear description of what you do - for example, whether you offer remedial massage, relaxation massage, sports massage, or specialized techniques. Be specific about the types of clients you work with or conditions you address, if relevant to your practice.

Add high-quality photos of your treatment space. Clients want to see where they will come. Take clear shots of your massage room, any equipment or props you use, and any waiting area. If you work in a clinic shared with other practitioners, show the parts that relate to your service. Do not include photos of clients without their written permission.

List each service you offer as a separate item on your profile - for example, 'Swedish massage', 'Deep tissue massage', 'Remedial massage'. For each one, write a short description of what the client can expect and how long a typical session takes. You set the prices yourself, and they show on your profile.

Add your contact details, hours of operation, and location. Websta lets clients book online at times you specify, or they can request a quote if they want to discuss their needs first. You receive booking requests and can confirm or discuss further with the client before they pay.

Languages to publish in

Publish your profile in English, as this is the main language for business in New Zealand. If you are fluent in te reo Māori and want to reach Māori clients, you can add a te reo Māori version of your profile as well. Check Websta's language options to see what is available.

Keep your descriptions clear and simple. Avoid jargon unless you are talking to clients who will understand it. Many people search for 'massage near me' in plain language, so match the way they search.

How people in New Zealand search for massage therapy

People in New Zealand use location-based search to find services nearby. They may search on Google Maps, on Websta's marketplace, or on other local service platforms. On Websta, clients in your area can browse massage therapists by location and service type, or they can post a task describing what they need and invite providers to make offers.

Clients often search for specific types of massage - 'deep tissue massage Wellington', 'sports massage Auckland', 'relaxation massage Christchurch' - or they may search for massage for a particular reason, like 'massage for back pain' or 'massage near me'. Having clear, honest descriptions of what you offer helps you appear in the right searches.

What to check before you start offering services

In New Zealand, there is no single national law that regulates massage therapy as a profession. However, if you use the title 'remedial massage therapist' or claim to treat specific health conditions, you may need to hold relevant qualifications recognized by a professional body. Check with the Health and Disability Commissioner and your local council to confirm what applies to your practice.

If you work from your own premises, confirm with your local council that your use is permitted under the property zoning and building code. If you rent a space, check your lease allows you to operate a massage therapy business.

If you are self-employed, you will need an IRD number (Inland Revenue Department number) for tax purposes. Register with Inland Revenue as a self-employed person. You will also need to register for GST if your annual turnover exceeds the GST threshold - check the current threshold with Inland Revenue.

Arrange professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance. Even though there is no mandatory requirement, insurance protects you if a client makes a claim. Ask professional associations in New Zealand for recommended providers.

Websta handles payments through Stripe. Customers pay by card, and the money goes directly to your own bank account. You need a bank account in your name and a Stripe account linked to it. Stripe takes a small fee per transaction; Websta takes a transaction fee as well. Confirm the current fees with Websta.

What to write in your first hour

Start by writing a clear one-sentence summary of what you do. For example: 'I offer deep tissue and remedial massage for muscle tension and sports injuries' or 'I provide relaxation massage and Swedish massage for stress relief and general wellness.' This is the first thing potential clients read.

List two to four services you offer most often. Write a short description for each - aim for two or three sentences. Explain what happens during the session, how long it takes, and what clients might feel or experience afterward.

Add your location - the suburb or town where you work. Add your hours - the days and times you are available. If you work from home or in a clinic, state that clearly.

Upload at least two photos. One should show your treatment space. The other could be a professional photo of you, if you are comfortable sharing one. Clear, well-lit photos help clients trust you.

Growing your profile over time

Once your profile is live, you can add more details and photos as you go. Clients who book or request quotes will see your profile and may leave feedback. This helps new clients decide whether to contact you.

As you take bookings through Websta, keep your availability updated so the calendar matches your actual schedule. If you offer a new service, add it to your profile so clients know it is available.

Finding clients on Websta

Websta's marketplace lets you see tasks posted by people in your area who are looking for massage therapy. You can browse these tasks and make an offer if you think you are a good fit for what they need. This is another way to get in front of potential clients beyond your profile page.

Having a complete, honest profile - with clear descriptions, good photos, and realistic information about what you offer - helps both your profile page and your offers stand out to clients.