We’re pleased to bring advanced DEXA scanning services to Northland, now available at our Reyburn Street clinic in Whangārei. This new service provides patients and referrers with convenient, local access to bone density and body composition scans, supporting better health insights without the need to travel outside the region.

This builds on Canopy Imaging’s existing bone density (DEXA) service in Rotorua, Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North and New Plymouth, bringing imaging services to more communities across the North Island.

A Guide to Bone Density (DEXA) and Body Composition Scans

Understanding your body goes beyond weight alone. Whether you’re focused on improving your fitness, monitoring your health, or managing your risk of conditions like osteoporosis, a DEXA scan provides detailed, accurate insights.

At Canopy Imaging, we offer both body composition scans and bone density scans (DEXA) in New Zealand, helping patients, athletes, and individuals take a proactive approach to their health.

What is a Bone Density Scan (DEXA)?

A bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan, is a quick and painless imaging test that measures the strength of your bones.

It uses a very low dose of X-ray radiation to measure the amount of calcium in your bones, which helps determine your bone strength.

DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry.

What is a Body Composition Scan and What Does It Measure?

A body composition scan provides a detailed breakdown of your body, helping you understand far more than what a standard scale can show.

Your report may include:

• Body fat percentage and fat mass 
• Lean muscle mass and % lean tissue 
• Android/gynoid ratio (fat distribution around waist vs hips) 
• Regional analysis (arms, legs, trunk) 
• Total body mineral content 
• BMI (Body Mass Index) 
• Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) 
• Tissue mapping and fat distribution visuals 

This makes body composition scans especially valuable for:

• Tracking fitness progress 
• Tailoring nutrition and training plans 
• Identifying health risks linked to fat distribution

Who Should Consider a Body Composition Scan?

You may benefit from a body composition scan if you:

• Want a clearer picture of your health beyond weight 
• Are starting or adjusting a fitness or nutrition programme 
• An athlete tracking performance 
• Want to monitor changes in fat and muscle over time 
• Are at risk of chronic conditions linked to body composition