Got a question about acupuncture, or wondering if I can help with what you're dealing with? Get in touch — I'm happy to talk it through before you book.
Call or text: 021 154 1413
Family Acupuncture
at Family Osteopaths
1/60 Parton Road,
Papamoa Beach
Papamoa 3118
Appointments Monday – Friday
A few of the questions I get asked most often — get in touch if yours isn't here.

Needles can feel something like a small pinch or mosquito bite, but most often people don't feel them at all — it's a misconception that acupuncture needs to hurt to work. I use Japanese technique, where the needles are generally finer and inserted more superficially than other styles, and where a painless insertion is genuinely the goal, not just a nice-to-have. Most patients end up feeling calm, relaxed, or pleasantly energised.

No referral needed to see me, but you will need a current ACC claim for your injury — acupuncturists can't lodge new claims, so that needs to happen through your GP, physio, or osteopath first. If you're not sure where to start, I can point you in the right direction. Once you have a claim, ACC covers up to 12 treatments, with a small surcharge per session. You're still entitled to acupuncture even if you've already been seeing another provider for the same injury.

Your first visit can take up to an hour. I'll ask about your presenting problem, its history, and your general health — including diet, sleep, and lifestyle — since understanding the whole picture helps treat the root cause, not just the symptom. I'll also check your tongue and pulse before we agree on a treatment plan together.

Yes — acupuncture is safe throughout pregnancy when done by someone specifically trained to treat women at this time. Treatments are relaxing, and my focus is always to keep you comfortable.

Very gently, and it starts with building rapport — sometimes that means we play before we do anything else. Kids don't have to lie still for treatment either. I use mostly needle-free techniques suited to children, like Shōnishin (a Japanese method using gentle tools instead of needles), alongside paediatric tui na massage and cupping. Most kids find it calming, and some end up asking for it again.

Tired of feeling worn down, in pain, or just not quite right — and tired of solutions that only mask it? Your body already knows how to heal. Sometimes it just needs the right support to get there. Book an appointment and let's get you started.
Let's Get You Feeling Better