Dr Fred Grosse started in 1982 and has continued to return regularly to present Gestalt workshops throughout New Zealand. The support for such an institute was unequivocable. Thus, in 1991 the Gestalt Institute of New Zealand began its first full year with 38 trainees. The training has been accredited by the N.Z. Qualifications Authority and the Diploma is equivalent to undergraduate level. The Institute is based in Christchurch with teaching centres in Dunedin, Palmerston North, and Hamilton.
Recognition is made of prior learning and promotion is based on competency.
There are three 4-5 day workshops per year for all trainees and also local training groups fortnightly. Attention to personal development is emphasised throughout the training, and individual psychotherapy is a requirement. Year one is devoted to personal work in a group setting with an introduction to Gestalt theory offered. Assignments deal with personal development. This year also enables trainees to be assessed for readiness to enter the training proper.