Best Massage in Wanaka

The Muscle Mechanics Wanaka

PREMIUM MASSAGE THERAPY IN WĀNAKA.

Our expert therapists utilise a detailed understanding of anatomy & biomechanics to deliver the best hands-on treatments
Located in the upper level of Ardmore House, 80 Ardmore St, in the heart of Wānaka, we offer appointments Monday-Friday from 9am-7pm. Also on Saturdays by special enquiry (get in touch with us if you would like to go on our Saturday list).
By appointment only, bookings essential.

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Confused by all the different Treatment Types?

With so many names and catchphrases for various massage techniques, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Both Theo and Matthew offer a comprehensive range of treatment methods (Including those listed below). So, you don't need to worry about selecting a specific type of treatment when booking. Simply choose a 30, 60, or 90-minute appointment. We will assess your history, symptoms, and condition, then tailor the treatment to meet your needs and pressure-preferences.

If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Sports Massage

PRE-RACE, POST-EVENT, INJURY REHAB

Our #1 speciality.. We work with athletes and fitness enthusiasts of all levels enhance their performance, prevent injuries, quickly recover from injuries, and prepare for/ quickly recover from intense training periods or events.

Our sports massage therapy involves a combination of deep tissue massage, active release technique, and targeted stretches to release muscle tension, increase flexibility, improve circulation, and improve biomechanics.

For pre-race massage, we use medium to light pressure to relax any muscles that are hypertonic, and enhance fluid flow. Our athletes report reduced cramping, reduced pain/ niggles affecting their performance, as well as feeling “lighter, bouncier, and fresher”.

We are the massage therapists for The Highlanders and Otago Rugby, and we work with many of Otago’s best athletes over a huge variety of disciplines. We also spend our own free time trail-running, swimming, mountaineering, skiing, skating, boating, surfing and biking.

Whether you're looking to enhance your athletic performance, prevent injuries, or speed up your recovery from a sports-related injury, our sports massage therapy is an excellent choice..

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Therapeutic Massage

DEEP TISSUE, REMEDIAL, CLINICAL

Our skilled therapists specialise in therapeutic massage techniques to resolve specific areas of tension, pain, and discomfort. Whether you're experiencing chronic pain, muscle stiffness, or recovering from an injury, our tailored massage sessions are designed to provide effective relief.

Our therapeutic massage treatments utilise a range of techniques including deep tissue (or medium pressure work), active release technique , myofascial release, and joint mobilisation to help restore optimal function, improve range of motion, and improve biomechanics. This technique is particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries, experiencing muscle stiffness, chronic pain, headaches or postural imbalances.

Our therapists will work closely with you to identify your specific needs and customize your massage session accordingly. We use only the highest quality, locally sourced oils and lotions to ensure maximum effectiveness and relaxation.

Whether you're seeking relief from pain or simply looking to improve your overall physical wellbeing, our deep tissue and remedial massage services are the ideal solution. Book your appointment today and experience the benefits for yourself.

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Relaxation Massage

RELAXATION & MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

If you're feeling stressed, tense or simply in need of some pampering, our relaxation massage is the perfect solution. Our experienced and skilled therapists use gentle, flowing strokes to soothe your muscles, release tension and calm your mind.

Our massage sessions are tailored to your individual needs, ensuring you get the most out of your experience. We use only the highest quality oils and lotions to nourish and hydrate your skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Book your appointment today and discover the many benefits of our relaxation massage for yourself.

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Dry- needling

Available as an add-on, to enhance the effectiveness of sports or therapeutic massage appointments.

Dry-needling is a highly effective technique used to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote healing. Our skilled therapists use fine, single-use, sterile needles to target hypertonic points in muscles, releasing tension in the muscle and positively affecting the nervous system.

This technique is particularly effective for those experiencing chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and postural imbalances.

Our therapists will work closely with you to identify areas of tension and discomfort and tailor the dry needling accordingly. We use only the highest quality needles and adhere to strict sterilization protocols to ensure your safety and comfort.

During your dry needling session, you may experience a mild sensation of discomfort, but this is short lived, discomfort can be further minimised by using more gentle needling techniques.

Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain or looking to enhance your overall physical wellbeing, our dry needling add on is an excellent choice

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Red-light Cupping

Our electric red light cupping therapy is a cutting-edge treatment available as an add-on to Sports Massage or Therapeutic Massage treatments.

Our red-light cupping therapy involves the use of battery powered cups that create a strong vacuum seal on the skin, stretching superficial fascia, relaxing muscles, and drawing blood through layers of tissue to enhance fluid flow in the area.

By including red light therapy, our cups can also promote cellular health (by improving mitochondrial function), and reduce inflammation (surprisingly to many, there’s an abundance of of research papers supporting this).

Cupping can selected when you book online, or by requesting at the time of treatment. Book your appointment today and experience the benefits for yourself.

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Meet the Brothers

Theo Wallis

SENIOR THERAPIST | MANAGING DIRECTOR
With over 10 years of experience and over 10,000 hours of hands-on work, Theo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. As the lead therapist for The Highlanders and Otago Rugby teams, he has worked with some of the most elite athletes in the industry, helping them to achieve optimal performance and recovery.
Theo's passion for a healthy and active lifestyle extends to his personal pursuits of surfing, skiing, running, mountaineering, swimming, and biking. With his extensive knowledge of biomechanics and anatomy, he understands the importance of keeping the body in peak condition to perform at its best.
His specialty lies in helping clients to resolve and futureproof against lower back pain and shoulder pain, using a combination of massage therapy, stretch, and exercise coaching to relax tight muscles, strengthen weak muscles, and remould biomechanics. His goal is to provide long-lasting relief through continual improvement of soft tissue health and biomechanics, allowing his clients to live their best lives.
Whether you're a professional athlete or simply looking to improve your overall physical wellbeing, Theo's extensive experience and personalized approach make him an ideal choice for all your massage therapy needs. Book your appointment today and experience the benefits of his expertise firsthand.
Matthew Wallis

SENIOR THERAPIST | CO-FOUNDER
Meet Matt, co-founder of The Muscle Mechanics, and a talented and experienced massage therapist with over 9 years and 9000 hours of hands-on experience.
Matt's personal journey of rehabilitation has included skating & running injuries, shoulder dislocations, and a massive lower back L4/L5 herniation, which required surgery. Recovering from these injuries has given him a unique skill set to work with injury rehabilitation. He is now as fit and healthy as ever, thanks to his expert skillset in rehabilitation and biomechanics .
As an ultra-runner, alpinist, snowboarder, biker and weightlifter, Matt's experience in various sports and activities enables him to work with athletes of all types and levels. He has a deep understanding of the body's mechanics and how to address imbalances and injuries to prevent future issues.
Matt's gentle nature and attention to detail also make him a great option for those seeking a more gentle treatment. He understands that each client is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment.
Matt's clients range from top professional athletes to non-athletes, working professionals, injured individuals, people dealing with chronic pain, and those looking to relax from a busy lifestyle.
Whether you're seeking relief from injury or chronic pain, looking to improve your athletic performance, or simply seeking a moment of relaxation, Matt's expertise and experience can help you achieve your goals. Book an appointment today and experience the benefits of Matt's specialized massage therapy techniques.