Our Story

Aromaflex Academy began with a simple vision: to provide high-quality education in aromatherapy and reflexology that would enable people to improve health and wellbeing within their families, communities, and professional practice.

Founded by Shelley Petersen-Monrad in Nelson, New Zealand, the Academy grew from a passion for complementary medicine and a desire to raise educational standards within the industry. As demand for professional training increased, Shelley developed programmes that combined practical skills, scientific knowledge, and professional integrity, leading to international accreditation and recognition.

Over the past three decades, hundreds of students have completed their training with us, many going on to establish successful practices, teach others, and contribute to the growth of the complementary health sector both in New Zealand and internationally.

Throughout this journey, Shelley has contributed to qualification development, educational standards, and professional governance within the aromatherapy and reflexology professions. This commitment to quality continues today through both internationally recognised programmes and NZQA-approved micro-credentials delivered by AromaScience Training.

While much has changed since those early days, our purpose remains the same: to provide supportive, high-quality education that empowers learners to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Today, we continue to embrace innovation through blended and online learning while maintaining the personal support, practical training, and strong sense of community that have always been at the heart of our organisation.