Our Story:
About a decade ago, NZBMA, originally Blue Moon Alchemy, sprouted from Dawn’s aromatherapy venture when she returned to Christchurch after many years living in Australia. When Wayne, the Body Mechanic, made the big move to Christchurch, having no connections or insider scoop on the local health, fitness and wellbeing scene, he hit the ground running, quickly carving out his niche. He firstly worked on horses (yes, the Body Mechanic loves treating horses), then furthered on to treat humans. Being inspired by Wayne’s gutsy leap, relentless optimism and determination to chase his dreams, Dawn ditched her aviation career to pursue her passion for helping others seeking aid. Together, this mother-and-son duo created NZBMA, a fusion of their unique strengths. Wayne, ever the maverick, embraced acronyms and invited clients to puzzle out what NZBMA stands for, proving that a vision does not need neat packaging to land with impact. This clever twist serves as a nod to individualisation, abstract thinking, universal cognition and embracing what makes each person uniquely unique.
Over the years, NZBMA has shape-shifted, growing, shrinking and reinventing itself into what it is today. It cycled through three logos: a bold circle embracing NZBMA’s early days, a unicorn galloping through its pre-COVID growth spurt and now, a sleek, no-nonsense design that gets straight to the point. This quirky mother-and-son team is driven by a mission to boost body awareness, turbocharge self-care and spark education in their local community. NZBMA flips the script on the typical massage clinic. It swaps outdated stereotype vibes for personalised care that is unconventional with a different lens. Its inclusive spirit feels like a high-five from a peer, not a clinical handshake or spa fluff. It is not there to patch clients up or do a quick fix. It is there to empower clients to take the wheel of their own wellbeing, tuning their body’s for the long haul of life’s adventures.
Wayne’s neurodivergent lens on his intense, prolonged and exclusive focus on the human biomechanical movement analysis (yes, a 20+ year hyperfixation), perfectly complements Dawn’s expertise in Remedial and Sport Flush massage. Together, they craft a tailored wellness pit stop designed for each client’s unique needs. With flexible scheduling, a slick online booking system and what feels like an endless resource section, NZBMA is more than a run-of-the-mill small, family-owned business in Ōtautahi Christchurch. It is Dawn and Wayne’s dream, a space where authenticity thrives. They grow side by side, championing diversity, inclusion, resilience and the thrill of chasing audacious goals. They are there to inspire clients to take charge, seek knowledge and embrace support. NZBMA aims to be the fence at the top of the hill, preventing the fall through multidevice aids, rather than the hospital at the bottom picking up the pieces.
Why did NZBMA start? To shake up the wellness industry (too on the nose?). How about, to empower their community to move better, feel stronger and live louder. Too bold? Maybe. But it is their truth. They evolved by blending evidence-based research with genuine human connection, adapting to serve everyone who values wellness as an achievable goal, not a luxury reserved for the wealthy. Looking ahead, they are all in on transforming lives one session at a time, with a big nod to inclusivity and a truckload of nerdy passion for health. Curious? Make a book and find out for yourself!
Meet the Mother & Son of NZBMA
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Wayne Armour is the Co-Founder and Director of NZBMA, which he established in 2016 alongside his mother Dawn Armour in Ōtautahi Christchurch. He has more than two decades of experience enhancing health, fitness and well-being for diverse populations, including elite athletes, recreational participants and those seeking functional mobility. His therapeutic practices are informed by continuous education, empirical evidence and client feedback, all aimed at developing community empowerment. Under Wayne’s guidance, NZBMA provides inclusive, evidence-based care, emphasising accountability, innovation, compassion and equitable access.
As NZBMA’s "Body Mechanic," Wayne developed an innovative manual therapy approach. Using the analogy of a car’s Warrant of Fitness (WOF), he simplifies complex proactive therapeutic care. This method integrates neuromuscular soft tissue techniques, manual therapy, bioengineering principles and evidence-based protocols. The approach focuses on observational assessments of muscle imbalances, postural issues and movement inefficiencies to address dysfunction, optimise physical performance and mitigate injury risks. Based on extensive experience with a varied client base, this method offers a holistic alternative to conventional care models.
Wayne also founded IDTS Connect, or "I Don’t Think Straight Connect," a peer support service for community connection. Prompted by personal health challenges, this service provides a secure environment for authentic human connections based on shared lived experiences. As an openly queer, neurodivergent individual, Wayne supports marginalised groups, including sporting individuals, LGBTQIA+ members, neurodiverse persons, elite athletes, Māori and Pasifika communities. The initiative aligns with the principles of whanaungatanga and manaakitanga from Te Tiriti o Waitangi to reduce isolation, enhance self-efficacy, and advance equity.
In addition to therapy and peer support, Wayne is developing SwimFree Coaching, a program of 50-minute sessions for proficient swimmers. The program focuses on drills and techniques for improved efficiency and safety, with an emphasis on freestyle to enhance form, balance and neuromuscular responses. By merging therapeutic knowledge with swimming expertise, Wayne aims to prevent overuse injuries and conserve energy, promoting injury free performance.
Wayne's community commitment extends to passionate advocacy for mental health, cancer awareness and resilience. He has led initiatives that raised funds and awareness through endurance challenges and educational efforts. He’s facilitated multiple free workshops on injury prevention and provides resources for self-reliant functional movement. His podcast, "Elbow Deep with Wayne," offers insights into therapy-based business operations and personal challenges. He also co-authored an article on LGBTQIA+ healthcare needs with Katie, advancing research within healthcare setting for equitable inclusion. Click here to read: ‘representation and healthcare needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals with endometriosis in New Zealand.’
Wayne Armour’s legacy is built on resilience, innovation and a persistent exploration of possibilities. He transforms personal challenges into tools for empowerment, adopting a holistic approach that integrates therapy, advocacy and coaching. Through NZBMA, IDTS Connect, SwimFree Coaching and his continues advocacy work, he supports functional lifestyles and inspires a more compassionate and inclusive society.
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Dawn Armour is a dedicated and highly skilled Remedial Massage Therapist who’s passionate about helping people feel their best. With years of hands-on experience and a compassionate approach, Dawn has earned the trust and respect of her local community as a go-to expert for improving health and well-being.
Dawn’s expertise includes a wide range of therapeutic techniques, such as Trigger Point Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Myofascial Release (MFR), Sports Massage, Joint Mobilisations, Pregnancy and Infant Massage, and Relaxation Therapy. She’s also certified in Active Release Techniques (ART) for both the upper and lower body, making her exceptionally equipped to address muscle and joint dysfunction.
What sets Dawn apart is her philosophy: she doesn’t just focus on easing symptoms. She aims to understand and treat the root causes of pain and imbalance. By blending remedial exercises and body awareness strategies into her massage treatments, Dawn helps her clients correct imbalances, regain mobility, and move toward long-term wellness. Her goal is to empower every client with the tools and confidence to stay active and healthy.
Dawn knows firsthand the physical demands of an active lifestyle. Whether she’s training for health or recovering after a tough game of squash, she brings that same mindset to her practice. Her personal experience gives her unique insight into what athletes and active individuals need to recover effectively, prevent injuries, and perform at their best.
Beyond the gym or sports field, Dawn’s skills extend to supporting clients with chronic conditions and complex needs. Her genuine care and empathetic approach ensure every client feels heard, understood, and cared for.
Dawn is more than a massage therapist; she’s a wellness partner who genuinely invests in helping people achieve their health goals. Whether it’s managing pain, improving mobility, or simply finding some much-needed relaxation, Dawn is here to support you every step of the way.
Discover the difference with Dawn Armour and take your first step toward feeling better today.