You might know Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa as the Rotorua icon known for its striking architecture, deep Ngāti Whakaue culture, celebrity visitors and glowing guest reviews, currently rated 4.8 from more than 1k Google reviews. From comedians and musicians to international film stars, Wai Ariki has become a must do experience for visitors seeking cultural wellness in Aotearoa New…
This Waitangi Day, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa proudly hosts a free community celebration. Join us on Friday, 6 February 2026, from 10am – 3pm, for a day filled with culture, learning, entertainment and connection.
The search for a Christmas gift that feels personal can be tricky – especially for that loved one who says they have everything. This year, give a gift that speaks to both the heart and mind. Te Aronui, the newly refurbished gift store at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, offers a curated collection of Māori-inspired wellness products and spa gifts. These gifts – sourced from Rotorua and…
Recently recognised as Belgravia Leisure’s New Zealand Venue of the Year 2025 and Most Unique Property at the 2025 Spa & Wellness Awards, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa is cementing its reputation as one of New Zealand’s premier wellness destinations. And in another win for the award-winning Rotorua venue, the team has now welcomed Jesse Tamm as Sales Executive, an appointment aimed at…
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa has earned national recognition at the 2025 Spa & Wellness Awards, named Most Unique Property. The venue was also featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 list. Published yearly by the global travel authority, this list features the top 50 must-visit destinations and essential experiences for next year from around the globe….
Fresh from being crowned one of the Top 10 Places to Relax and Rejuvenate in 2025 at the SMH Traveller Awards, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa have marked the occasion by unveiling a vibrant refresh of its onsite café rooted in culture, nature and community: Te Rourou. Whether you’re fresh from the spa…
Make your next girls’ weekend getaway unforgettable with a spa day in Rotorua. Discover group packages that are perfect for friends at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa.
With the new spring season comes the opportunity to cleanse and declutter. Discover how to perform a spring clean on your mind at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa.
This year marks the 50 year celebration of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. Yet, with only 4.3 percent of Aotearoa able to hold a conversation in te reo Māori, the wero (challenge) has been laid to businesses to do their part to preserve the taonga. Since its inception in 1975, Te wiki o Te…
Celebrate Father’s Day in Rotorua with a gift rooted in Māori tradition. Discover Wai Ariki’s hot springs packages – indulgent, restorative, and meaningful
Te Arawa Māori bathing culture: New Zealand’s best kept secret For centuries, people from all around the world have appreciated a good spa day – and rightfully so. From therapeutic hot springs and geothermal pools, to facials and massages, what’s not to like? Yet, despite having our own, rich Māori bathing culture in New Zealand,…
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa has been named a double finalist in the World Spa Awards 2025, recognised in two prestigious categories. The categories are New Zealand’s Best Day Spa 2025 and World’s Best Mineral & Hot Springs Spa 2025. These nominations recognise Wai Ariki’s commitment to geothermal luxury, Māori-inspired healing and transformative wellness experiences in the…
Need to reduce stress? More ‘robe time’ is the answer! If you’ve visited Wai Ariki before, you know that our signature hot springs and spa experiences come with one essential item – a specialised, Wai Ariki bathrobe. But, not only provided for your comfort and privacy, did you know that simply wrapping yourself up in…
For Kylie Gunn, wellbeing isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a way of life. And it’s this deep-rooted belief in mindfulness, balance and connection that makes her feel instantly connected to Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. Kylie joined the team in March as our new Marketing Manager, bringing with her not only years of…
Rotorua-based, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa, the iwi-owned luxury spa managed by Belgravia Leisure, is at the forefront of a powerful surge in Māori tourism – a sector that has grown by 23 percent since 2018, now valued at $1.2 billion, according to recently released Census data. Released in March, the figures highlight the…
Ever thought about what Māori architecture looks like in the 21st century? The Drawing Board, a new Whakaata Māori documentary series, explores exactly that. Showcasing a wave of modern Māori architecture sweeping across Aotearoa, led by some of the country’s freshest design talent. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is proud to be featured in…
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa was recently honoured with a moving performance by Māori performing arts group, Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue, touching the hearts of all in attendance. The performance was a true celebration of Māori culture and heritage. Wai Ariki, located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, is a world-class wellness…
Akatu Marsters joined us in March 2024, bringing her rich heritage and diverse experience to Wai Ariki. Of NZ Māori and Cook Island descent, Akatu grew up in Whakarewarewa Village, Rotorua, where cultural sharing and hospitality were deeply embedded in daily life. This strong cultural foundation led her to a career in tourism, including a…
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa has received a glowing feature on News.com.au as a must-visit destination for Aussies seeking a wellness escape. Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ariki is far from your ordinary spa experience. The article, by journalist Brielle Burns, celebrates Wai Ariki’s unique blend of therapeutic geothermal waters and…
Even the toughest food critics need a break! My Kitchen Rules (MKR) judges Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge have found the perfect place to unwind at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, the spa offered them a much-needed escape from their busy schedules. Manu and Colin relaxed in…
