Regulation of Chinese Medicine in Aotearoa NZ

Artist’s impression of the quasar 3C 279. ESO/M. Kornmesser - Public Domain.

Chinese Medicine is a holistic system of medicine used to treat a wide range of health conditions. It encompasses many therapeutic modalities within its practice, including: acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage therapies such as tui na, gua sha, cupping, and blood letting techniques. In July 2023 the Chinese Medicine profession in Aotearoa New Zealand officially became regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act). Chinese Medicine is now a regulated profession similar to other health professions such as midwifery, nursing, and osteopathy. It is now a legal requirement that all Acupuncturists, Chinese Herbal Medicine practitioners, and Chinese massage (tui na) practitioners who are practicing in Aotearoa New Zealand must be regulated with the Chinese Medicine Council. Details of registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners, including their scope of practice are publicly available on Chinese Medicine Council website.