The New Zealand Training centre is in Papakura Auckland. It is situated on a 10-acre
lifestyle block called Soulheartheart, close to the 14,000-hectare Hunua Ranges Regional
Park and about 30 mins by car from the city centre. The park features tramping and
mountain biking tracks, fishing, swimming pools, amazing scenery, waterfalls and
a stand of ancient Kauri trees. The Centre is also only 40 mins away from large surf
beaches and only a few hours from the winter ski fields and the thermal wonders of
the central North Island.
The Centre offers short-term training programs and a full 750-hour Diploma course
in Thai Yoga Massage and Ayurvedic Bodywork with trainer Don Bertram.
Don trained and studied extensively with Asokananda up until Asokananda's death in
June 2005 and was his assistant teacher during 2004 - 2005 in New Zealand.
He completed his first Vapassana Meditation class in 1996 and is currently the
President of the Thai Yoga Massage Association of New Zealand. He is deeply committed
to continuing the works of Asokananda in New Zealand including teaching the
Thai Yoga Master Diploma course as set up by him before his death.
All courses are recognized by TYMANZ (Thai Yoga Massage Association of New Zealand)
The Sunshine Network New Zealand is a corporate member of the Thai Yoga Massage
Association of New Zealand (TYMANZ). Our DiplomaCourse fulfills the requirements of
TYMANZ for Thai Yoga massage practitioners in New Zealand. The TYMANZ standards are
recognized by the New Zealand Health Charter. Practitioners registered with TYMANZ
can get professional insurance through the Health Charter and may register with the
Health Charter as Chartered Health Practitioners.
As a lot of the material is given from sitting on the ground, less work and effort are required from the therapist, with more fun involved with the dynamic rocking motions incorporated into the programme. The course also offers at least a full day devoted to theoretical and practical training for giving massages to pregnant women.
For classes of other authorized teachers in New Zealand, please contact the teachers on the
