Haere Mai and Welcome to Evolution School of Beauty & Massage, Whangarei and Kaitaia, NZ We are proud to be able to enrol international students into two of our full year programmes : NZ 3443 Certificate in Beauty Therapy Level 4 To see the programme detail click HERE START DATE- January 27th 2026 FINISH DATE - December 9th 2026 And NZ2470 Diploma in Wellness & Relaxation Massage Level 5 To see the programme detail click HERE START DATE- January 29th 2026 FINISH DATE - December 11th 2026
TO APPLY FOR EITHER PROGRAMME CLICK HERE THERES STILL TIME TO APPLY FOR THE 2026 INTAKE! BE QUCK!
NZ Certificate in Beauty TherapyLevel 4 Enrolment eligibility for International Students includes : - being 18 years of age or older by the start of the programme; - meet the minimum (or higher) English language and academic entry requirements (use NZQA’s table for internationally recognised English proficiency outcomes for international students for English language; see the academic entry requirments on the school’s website; - meet the minimum (or higher) academic entry requirements: New Zealand’s National Certificate in Educational Achievement (Level 1) or equivalent - participate in a one-to-one Programme Briefing (most likely online) with an Evolution School staff member in which the applicant will need to converse in English in an easily understood manner, answer English questions and demonstrate passion and commitment to the preferred field. This briefing will cover the programme content to ensure the programme that the applicant is wanting to enrol in is the best one for the applicant, and if not then to consider the other programme available; obligations and expectations of students and staff; punctuality and presentation; communication and motivation; what support systems the applicant will have in place and what support systems the school will have in place. -have a valid student visa, and adequate health and travel insurance cover. This includes: (a) the international tertiary learner’s travel – (i) to and from New Zealand; and (ii) within New Zealand; and (iii) if the travel is part of the educational instruction, outside New Zealand; and (b) medical care in New Zealand, including diagnosis, prescription, surgery, and hospitalisation; and (c) repatriation or expatriation of the international tertiary learner as a result of serious illness or injury, including cover of travel costs incurred by family members assisting repatriation or expatriation; and (d) death of the international tertiary learner, including cover of – (i) travel costs of family members to and from New Zealand; and (ii) costs of repatriation or expatriation of the body; and (iii) funeral expenses.
To see the NZ Certificate in Beauty Therapy Programme in detail click here
The attainment of this Certificate does not guarantee employment in NZ , nor Can Evolution School assist with residency for learners / graduates.
Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage Level 5 Enrolment eligiblity for International Students includes: - being 18 years of age or older by the start of the programme; - meet the minimum (or higher) English language and academic entry requirements (use NZQA’s table for internationally recognised English proficiency outcomes for international students for English language; see the academic entry requirments on the school’s website; - meet the minimum (or higher) academic entry requirements: New Zealand’s National Certificate in Educational Achievement (Level 2 with at least 10 literacy and 10 numeracy credits) or equivalent - provide a declaration indicating a level of health and abilities commensurate with achieving practice competencies in the Wellness and Massage programme Alternative Entry Requirements: If you still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements? If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry. - participate in a one-to-one Programme Briefing (most likely online) with an Evolution School staff member in which the applicant will need to converse in English in an easily understood manner, answer English questions and demonstrate passion and commitment to the preferred field. This briefing will cover the programme content to ensure the programme that the applicant is wanting to enrol in is the best one for the applicant, and if not then to consider the other programme available; obligations and expectations of students and staff; punctuality and presentation; communication and motivation; what support systems the applicant will have in place and what support systems the school will have in place. -have a valid student visa, and adequate health and travel insurance cover. This includes: (a) the international tertiary learner’s travel – (i) to and from New Zealand; and (ii) within New Zealand; and (iii) if the travel is part of the educational instruction, outside New Zealand; and (b) medical care in New Zealand, including diagnosis, prescription, surgery, and hospitalisation; and (c) repatriation or expatriation of the international tertiary learner as a result of serious illness or injury, including cover of travel costs incurred by family members assisting repatriation or expatriation; and (d) death of the international tertiary learner, including cover of – (i) travel costs of family members to and from New Zealand; and (ii) costs of repatriation or expatriation of the body; and (iii) funeral expenses.
To see the NZ Diploma in Wellness & Relaxation Massage programme in detail click HERE The attainment of this Diploma does not guarantee employment in NZ , nor Can Evolution School assist with residency for learners / graduates.
Evolution School is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, including the international learners sections. An international student is a person who holds foreign citizenship and does not have New Zealand citizenship, Australian citizenship or a valid New Zealand residency class visa
All the staff at Evolution School (see below) are dedicated to giving you as much information and help as they possibly can. We are committed to giving you the very best training you can have and we will endeavour to ensure all students achieve New Zealand’s Certificate in Beauty Therapy or the Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage .
Fees for Evolution School programmes for International Students
Diploma in Wellness & Relaxation Massage (Level 5): $25500* NZD (for 2026) Additional Compulsory Course related costs: Uniform, Badge, Stationery, Text book, Public trust account set up fee, total approximately $500 ( subject to change due to supplier costs). We recommend students have a laptop or chromebook to be able to complete their online learning. This is not advisable on a mobile phone.
Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4): $26500* NZD (for 2026) Compulsory Course related costs: Uniform, Badge, Stationery, Text book, Public trust account set up fee, total approximately $500 ( subject to change due to supplier costs). We recommend students have a laptop or chromebook to be able to complete their online learning. This is not advisable on a mobile phone.
Application and Enrolment Process Step One Before you begin, make sure that you plan ahead and give yourself a realistic amount of time to prepare for your intended start date. It is a good idea to research the programmes of study you are interested in, what they involve, and what will be expected of you throughout your studies. Step Two To study at Evolution School you will need to apply on an Evolution School Application for Enrolment form either directly to Evolution School at [email protected] or through an Evolution School registered agent. Evolution School registered agents can apply for you online. Applicants can apply online or complete this International Student Application form, ensuring all sections are completed in full, and that the programme of choice is clearly indicated. You will need to supply the required documentation otherwise this will delay your application. Step Three When Evolution School receives your application you will receive an acknowledgement email. Complete applications may take up to one week to assess. You will be contacted to arrange a suitable time for a full course briefing with one of the team members. This is your opportunity to hear about the programme is greater detail and ask any questions you may have Step Four Successful applicants will receive a Letter of Offer letter form, which will give advice on fees, insurance (health and travel), and date of payment. There will also be a Confirmation of Acceptance document and a Fee Protect Student Acknowledgement Form Step Five The applicant can accept the Confirmation of Acceptance form by signing then emailing it back to Evolution School [email protected] Step Six Pay the programme fee as specified in the Letter of Offer - use the information in the Fee Protect Student Acknowledgement Form to guide you on paying the fee and setting up your Public Trust Account to securely deposit your fees Step Seven When your fees have been paid, Evolution School will send you a receipt. This receipt must be presented to the nearest Immigration New Zealand office with a copy of your Letter of Offer in order to obtain a student permit/visa. Your student permit/visa must then be presented to Evolution School to help complete enrolment prior to the start of your programme.
To guarantee your place in the programme, acceptance must be received with full payment of fees by the due date. In the case that all places in the programme are taken at the time you decide to pay the fees and accept the Confirmation of Offer, Evolution School will offer you a place in the programme in the next available intake. Step Eight Congratulations. It is now time to purchase your travel and health insurance, prepare for your travel, and get ready for life as an Evolution School student in Whangarei, New Zealand.
The Beauty & Massage industry ( wellness industry) is a growing industry and the qualifications Evolution School delivers help to grow you and to accommodate the needs of industry. We will expose you to as much extra knowledge as time allows ensuring you have a full grasp of the vastness of this exciting industry. We have certain responsibilities and obligations to NZQA, and to the beauty therapy and massage industries and as such, we can afford only a small amount of flexibility within the syllabi.
Self-discipline is of utmost importance. We are an school for adult learners and we expect adult behaviour and commitment from all. You must take responsibility for your own learning and realise that much as we would like to, we cannot do it for you. Learn from experiences had whilst at Evolution School and strive towards excellence at all times. There will be some aspects of your course that you may not enjoy – stick with them as they are important and are included for a reason. You will graduate with our highly recognised qualifications.
You will achieve with motivation, commitment and a willingness to co-operate and succeed. This will ensure a clear path to success. Remember at all times, that we have been doing this for a long time now and we know what works – some things you will like, some you won’t, some you will agree with, and some you won’t, but whatever happens, remember it’s because it’s the best for you and it works! We cannot however, guarantee your success – that’s down to you!
To enable each student to get the very best from our staff, it is important for you to identify areas of concern in your learning. We cannot help you if we are not aware of problems you may be experiencing. These problems may not be related to your course but if they impact upon it and we can help, we will do so. You just need to let us know.
Together we must commit to making this the hugely respected career it should be – an industry made up of incredible professionals.
We want you to get the best from us and we can only do that if we get the best from you.
Evolution School Staff
Lorna Clowes Teaching Experience: Over 35 years of teaching experience in beauty therapy and massage education within the UK and NZ. Qualified Teacher with extensive expertise in curriculum design, programme leadership, and mentoring educators. Has guided generations of students in New Zealand and internationally and has graduates working all over the world. Industry Experience: Fully qualified CIBTA and CIDESCO Beauty Therapist, Massage Therapist, and Electrolysis Practitioner. More than 35 years in the beauty and wellness industry, including owning and operating several successful businesses. Founded Elite International School of Beauty Therapy in Auckland (1998) and in Whangarei (2000), and established New Zealand’s first dedicated Spa School in Auckland (2001). Opened Soul Day Spa in Tutukaka, Northland (2004) and Soul Day Spa in Kerikeri, Northland (2005). In 2009, founded Evolution School in Whangarei, expanding into Kaitaia in 2023. School Role: Founder and Director of Evolution School. Provides leadership, strategic direction, and a supportive vision for the school. Leads with positivity, empowers the teaching team, and ensures programmes uphold excellence while supporting students to achieve success. Passion: Deeply committed to creating a gentle and inclusive learning environment that embraces all cultures and people. Passionate about helping ākonga succeed both locally and internationally, with a special focus on empowering wāhine (women) in rural areas to become self-sufficient through education and industry skills.
Sarah Redwood Teaching Experience: 5 years of teaching and assessing beauty therapy programmes. Holds the NZQA 4098 assessment qualification. Experienced as Programme Manager, STAR Course Coordinator, and programme assessor. Industry Experience: 17 years in the beauty industry, including salons, day spas, laser clinics, and running her own home-based business. Former clinic trainer in advanced skin treatments and laser hair removal. Specialist in advanced skincare treatments. School Role: Programmes Manager for the Beauty Therapy programme and Massage Therapy programme; tutor for the Beauty Therapy; STAR Course Coordinator; assessor. Provides leadership in curriculum delivery and ensures quality training aligned with NZQA standards. Passion: Dedicated to supporting students to grow in confidence, master new skills, and feel inspired about their futures in the beauty industry. Believes teaching is about building learners’ self-belief as much as sharing professional knowledge.
Anna Furey Teaching Experience: 17 years of teaching Beauty Therapy and Massage in New Zealand and internationally. Extensive experience in curriculum development, assessment creation, internal moderation, and e-Learning resource design. Skilled in developing engaging online content and supporting students in digital learning environments. Industry Experience: Runs her own business within the beauty therapy and the wellness & relaxation massage sector, bringing practical industry insights into her teaching. Strong background in both beauty therapy and massage practice, ensuring students gain knowledge grounded in real-world application. School Role: Student Success Manager and eLearning Support Tutor. Provides personalised guidance to help students navigate e-Learning, complete assessments successfully, and stay engaged throughout their studies. Acts as an internal moderator and assessment writer, ensuring quality and consistency across programmes. Passion: Known for her expertise with technology and online learning platforms. Dedicated to creating supportive learning resources and fostering student confidence, ensuring every learner has the tools and encouragement to achieve their goals.
Yvonne Palmer – Student Finance Manager Industry Experience: Over 16 years of experience as a qualified beauty therapist, having successfully owned and managed her own clinic. Her background is in the beauty industry which gives her a strong understanding of both professional standards and client care. School Role: School Administrator, student finance advisor and adminstrator and is the first point of contact for applications, programme briefings and enrolments. Provides support to students with Studylink and WINZ applications, and liaises with NZQA, TEC, Studylink and Public Trust, to ensure smooth processes and compliance. She is dedicated to guiding students through their journey and ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.
Evolution School has a gorgeous, welcoming and warm environment with: - teaching rooms - fully equipped training rooms designed for practical learning - a shared kitchen/lunchroom - beauty therapy equipment including treatment beds, facial steamers, waxing and skincare equipment, manicure stations, makeup, lash and brow, magnifying lamps, skin scanners -massage equipment including professional massage tables, oils, bolsters. The School runs ‘On-site Student Clinics’ – open to the public, giving students real-life client experience under supervision. Have a peek at our school here Here’s what some of our graduates say about Evolution School here
The Code of Practice for International Students Evolution School has agreed to observe and be bound by the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 and its subsequent amendments, published by the Minister of Education and NZQA. The Code is available from the NZQA Web site at www2.nzqa.govt.nz/tertiary/the-code/
Our NZQA External Evaluation and Review (EER) Status The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) conducts external evaluations and reviews (EERs) on tertiary education organisations in New Zealand. For previous and current EER information, please see our Organisations page on the NZQA Web site here: https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers/details.do?providerId=790293001&site=3 Student
Visas and Permits According to a previously available FAQs page on the Immigration New Zealand Web site, “A visa allows a person to travel to the New Zealand border, and a permit allows them to remain in the country. If someone has a visa, they are usually issued with a permit at the border.” “Permits expire when a person leaves the country, and, if they wish to return, they will need either a multiple-entry visa or another single-entry visa.” If you plan on travelling back home while studying with us, we recommend you apply for a multiple-entry student visa. Study Visas Full details of immigration requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through Immigration New Zealand, and can be viewed on their Web site at www.immigration.govt.nz Medical and Travel Insurance The Code requires international students to hold a valid, appropriate and current medical and travel insurance throughout their journey to, time in, and journey away from New Zealand. Your medical and travel insurance must include: the international tertiary learner’s travel – (i) to and from New Zealand; and (ii) within New Zealand; and (iii) if the travel is part of the educational instruction, outside New Zealand; and medical care in New Zealand, including diagnosis, prescription, surgery, and hospitalisation; and repatriation or expatriation of the international tertiary learner as a result of serious illness or injury, including cover of travel costs incurred by family members assisting repatriation or expatriation; and death of the international tertiary learner, including cover of – (i) travel costs of family members to and from New Zealand; and (ii) costs of repatriation or expatriation of the body; and (iii) funeral expenses. Refer to Process 5: Insurance of Code of Practice for more details.
You can only get your medical and travel insurance through one of the following companies:
New Zealand Student Plan: Provider Uni-Care Student and Visitor Travel Insurance Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (NZ) Limited Telephone (inside New Zealand): 0800 864 227 Telephone (International): +64 4 381 8166
Eligibility for Health Services Most international students are not entitled to publicly funded health services while in New Zealand. If you receive medical treatment during your visit, you may be liable for the full costs of that treatment. Full details on entitlements to publicly funded health services are available through the Ministry of Health, and can be viewed on their Web site at www.health.govt.nz.
Accident Insurance The Accident Compensation Corporation provides accident insurance for all New Zealand citizens, residents, and temporary visitors to New Zealand, but you may still be liable for all other medical and related costs. Further information can be viewed on the ACC Web site at www.acc.co.nz.
Accommodation “Where am I going to live while I study?” is often a question prospective international ākonga / students ask. While Evolution School does not have accommodation on-campus, we can offer some suggestions and give you some information about possible accommodation and accommodation providers.
Accommodation and Transport Information for International Students in Whangārei Accommodation There are several places you can look for accommodation such as rental housing, flatting, or temporary options in Whangarei while you are studying with us. Contact the individual provider for information on how to apply, availability, characteristics and realistic costs of gaining accommodation with the provider. Please note some providers have several options available, and they will be best to discuss these options with you.
2. Whangārei i-SITE Visitor Information Centre Provides local contacts, temporary housing, hostels, and community advice. Tarewa Park, 92 Otaika Road, Whangārei 🌐 https://www.northlandnz.com/visit/whangarei/
5. Facebook Groups Many students and locals advertise flatting or rental opportunities in Whangārei. Search on Facebook for: “Whangarei Flatmates” “Whangarei Rentals” “Whangarei Accommodation”
6. Hostels & Short-Term Accommodation Useful if you need somewhere to stay while you look for a longer-term rental:
7. Tenancy Services – MBIE Provides official information about renting, tenant rights, and responsibilities in New Zealand. 🌐 https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/
8. Whangārei District Council General community information and local services. 🌐 https://www.wdc.govt.nz/
Renting and Accommodation Safety Tips (New Zealand) When looking for accommodation in Whangārei, it’s important to stay safe and informed: Always Sign a Written Agreement Never rely on verbal promises. A legal tenancy agreement protects you and your landlord. Bond Payments If you pay a bond (deposit), it must be lodged with Tenancy Services (not kept by the landlord). You can check if your bond is lodged at: https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/rent-bond-and-bills/bond/check-your-bond/ Avoid Scams Never pay money before seeing the property in person. Be cautious if someone asks you to send money overseas or only communicates online. Check What’s Included Ask if the rent includes power, water, and internet. Costs vary and can add up. Inspect the Property Look for safety issues (smoke alarms, secure locks, heating). Make sure it is warm, dry, and healthy – see https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/healthy-homes/
Know Your Rights Landlords must give proper notice before entering. Repairs and maintenance are their responsibility, not yours.
Emergency Contacts In an emergency, call 111 for police, fire, or ambulance.
For tenancy problems, contact Tenancy Services on 0800 836 262.
Support Systems & External Agencies for International Students in Whangārei
Education and Student Support 1 Your School Team : Help with enrolment, cultural adjustment, health, and wellbeing. Contact the school administrator or your programme leader.
3. NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority) For concerns about your programme, code of practice, or complaint processes. Website: https://www.nzqa.govt.nz
Health and Wellbeing 4. Te Whatu Ora – Whangārei Hospital Emergency care and specialist services. Address: 2 Hospital Road, Whangārei Phone: 09 430 4100 White Cross Emergency care – 09 4701083 Healthline initial health and sickness advice – 0800 611611
5. Student-Friendly General Practitioners (GPs) White Cross Whangārei Urgent Care Open 7 days, walk-in friendly Address: 121 Bank St Phone: 09 430 4111 Bush Road Medical Centre – often used by students Address: 8-10 Bush Rd Phone: 09 437 2240
6. Mental Health Support 1737 – Need to Talk? (Free 24/7 phone and text service) Phone or text: 1737 Lifeline Phone: 0800 543 354 Youthline Phone: 0800 376 633 | Text: 234
Accommodation and Tenancy Support 7. Tenancy Services NZ Advice about renting, rights, and responsibilities Website: https://www.tenancy.govt.nz
8. Citizens Advice Bureau – Whangārei Free help with tenancy, legal rights, budgeting, and employment Address: 71 Bank St Phone: 09 438 8046 Website: https://www.cab.org.nz
Legal, Immigration, and Visa Support 9. Immigration New Zealand Visa queries, work rights, and student conditions Website: https://www.immigration.govt.nz Local support: Use licensed immigration advisers only
10. Community Law Northland Free legal advice, including immigration and work issues Address: 96 Bank St Phone: 09 430 4460 Website: https://www.communitylaw.org.nz
Cultural, Social and Community Support 11. Multicultural Whangārei Support for migrants, refugees, and international students Language exchange, events, and cultural mentoring Address: 71 Bank St (within the CAB building) Phone: 09 430 0571 Website: https://www.mcw.org.nz
12. Whangārei Libraries – International Student Resources Free Wi-Fi, study spaces, books, and community events Address: 5 Rust Ave Website: https://www.wdc.govt.nz
13. Volunteering Northland Opportunities to connect with the community, gain experience Website: https://volunteeringnorthland.nz
Employment and Work Rights 14. Employment New Zealand Information about your rights while working Website: https://www.employment.govt.nz
15. Workbridge – Whangārei Helps people find part-time or casual work, including for young people and students Address: 2nd Floor, 8-10 Rust Ave Phone: 0508 858 858
Working While Studying For information about working while studying on a Student Visa, see the “Working on a student visa” page on the Immigration New Zealand Web site here: www.immigration.govt.nz/study/once-you-have-a-student-visa/working-on-a-student-visa/ You can find more information about working in New Zealand through the Immigration New Zealand Web site. Topics include: • Starting to work after studying • Your employment rights • Finding and applying for jobs • Pay and wages • Holidays and leave • Employee rights • Problems at work We also encourage you to visit and read the NauMai NZ Web site for more information on studying and working in New Zealand and also the “Live” page on the New Zealand Immigration Web site for more information on working and living in New Zealand.
FUTURE DATES AND COSTS 2027 start and finish dates: 26th January - December 10th 2028 start and finish dates: 25th January - December 8th
2027 costs : NZ Certificate in Beauty Therapy $26,750 NZ Diploma in Wellness & Relaxation Massage $25, 750 2028 costs: NZ Certificate in Beauty Therapy $27,000 NZ Diploma in Wellness & Relaxation Massage $26,000