About Me

My name is Catherine McDonald. Having been a full-time Mum for 10 years, I decided it was time to do something for me and to retrain in something I felt passionate about. I have always loved massage and have found it to be an effective tool in looking after myself, treating injuries and injury prevention. I wanted to be able to share this with others and therefore in 2019 I trained as a Massage Therapist through Toi Ohoimai Institute of Technology undertaking a year-long Diploma in Massage Therapy.

In November 2019 I set up The Recovery Room working from my home on the beautiful Omokoroa Peninsula. I have a dedicated cabin on my section which allows me to separate my work and home life and create privacy for clients. Five years into my massage therapy career and I am still as passionate about massage as when I started.

In 2024 I undertook a years full time study to complete a Diploma in Remedial Massage (NZQA Level 6)  through the Southern Institute of Technology.

I am a people person so enjoy developing relationships with clients and working with them to meet their treatment goals. I am always seeking to learn new techniques and practices and to date have completed the following courses:

• Myofacial Release with Beth Beuchamp (3 seperate courses)
• Pregnancy Massage with Pregnancy Massage Australia
• Post Natal Massage with Pregnancy Massage Australia
• Pregnancy and Post Natal Massage with Mother & Baby Wellness, NZ
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage Level 1 and 2 with Hans Lutter at HandsOn Clinic in Christchurch

Plus, lots of smaller courses to learn new techniques and theories

When not working I am the Mum of two teenage boys. My other passions include spending time with my family and friends and being an active member of my community. I also love hiking the Great Walks with my girl gang, running, mountain biking, the beach, going fishing with my family, travelling and generally going on adventures.