Osteopath Kaiwhakamaimoa Kōiwi

Osteopaths help relieve pain and improve the function of the body by gently moving muscles, bones and joints. 

Osteopaths need to be registered with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand and have a current Annual Practising Certificate.

• Osteopathic Council New Zealand website - information on registration and Annual Practising Certificates

Osteopaths may do some or all of the following:

• analyse health problems by questioning and examining the patient
• discuss methods of care with the patient
• use movement to treat muscles, bones and joints
• change and correct the movement of the spine to restore movement and health
• advise patients on exercise, posture, diet and lifestyle
• carry out workplace assessments for patients who have Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) or any other workplace injuries.

To specialise in the following areas or scopes of practice, you need to have a specific qualification approved by the Osteopathic Council in:

• acupuncture
• gerontology (health of older people)
• pain management. 

• Osteopathic Council website - information on specialised scopes of practice (PDF -141KB)

Subject Recommendations

NCEA Level 3 is required to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include biology, chemistry, English, health, maths, physics.

Related Careers

Osteopaths may progress to starting up their own practice.

Osteopaths may specialise in:

• acupuncture
• gerontology (ageing)
• pain management.