Introducing DEXA Scans in Whangārei & Rotorua: Your Guide to Body Composition and Bone Health
We’re pleased to announce the launch of DEXA (bone density and body composition) scanning at our Canopy Imaging clinic on Reyburn Street in Whangārei and Haupapa Street, Rotorua.
This new service provides patients across Northland and the Lakes Region with convenient, local access to advanced imaging, supporting better insights into your health without needing to travel outside the region.
This builds on Canopy Imaging’s existing bone density (DEXA) service in Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North and New Plymouth, bringing imaging services to more communities across the North Island.
Whether you’re monitoring your wellbeing, improving your fitness, or assessing your bone health, a DEXA scan offers accurate, detailed information to help guide your next steps.
Bone density scans: Understanding your bone health
A bone density (DEXA) scan measures the strength of your bones and helps detect conditions such as osteoporosis.
These conditions can develop gradually and often show no symptoms until a fracture occurs, making early detection essential.
A bone density scan may be recommended if you:
- Are postmenopausal
- Are over the age of 50
- Have a family history of osteoporosis
- Have experienced a fracture or bone-related condition
Early detection allows your healthcare provider to put in place strategies to help reduce your risk of fractures and maintain bone health.
Body composition scans: A deeper insight into your health
A body composition scan provides a detailed breakdown of your body, helping you better understand your overall health and physical condition.
Instead of just measuring weight, it shows:
- How much of your body is fat vs muscle
- Where fat is distributed across your body
- Changes in muscle mass over time
This type of scan is ideal for individuals who wish to:
- Monitor their health status
- Gain insight into their physical condition
- Improve fitness or performance
- Track progress over time
Individuals at risk of chronic disease can also benefit from understanding their body composition in more detail.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts, in particular, can use a body composition scan as a reliable baseline to help guide nutrition and exercise programmes.
What to expect during your scan
Your bone density or body composition scan will be quick and comfortable:
- The scan takes around 10–15 minutes
- You’ll lie on a padded table while the scanner moves over your body
- No preparation is required
- You can return to normal activities immediately afterwards
Our experienced Canopy Imaging team will guide you through the process and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Now available locally in Whangārei and Rotorua
With the introduction of new DEXA machines in Whangārei and Rotorua, patients across Northland and the Lakes Region can now access advanced bone density and body composition scanning locally.
This means:
- Less need to travel outside the region
- Faster access to important health information
- More convenient ongoing monitoring and care
How do I book a bone density or body composition scan?
Booking your scan is simple:
- Ask your GP or specialist for a referral
- Or self-refer if eligible
- Bone density: Self-referral is available for postmenopausal females and males over 50 years of age
- Body composition: Self-referral is available for patients aged over 20 years
- You can also be referred by your GP or specialist if required.
- Book online or contact our team directly
Our Canopy Imaging team is here to ensure a smooth and supportive experience from referral through to results.