Run the Forest 2026 | Recovery at Wai Ariki
Hitting the trails for Run the Forest 2026?
This event has ended.
Date: Saturday 8 August 2026
Location: Rotorua, New Zealand
After taking on Rotorua’s iconic geothermal landscapes and towering Redwoods, complete your journey with purposeful recovery at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, proud headline sponsor of Run the Forest.
This unique winter trail event takes you through steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and forest trails, with distances to suit every pace.
Nestled on the edge of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ariki is more than a spa, it is a place of restoration where you can relax, recover, and reconnect after race day.
Recover with the World First Restorative Journey
Step into Wai Whakaora, our signature 2-hour Restorative Journey, a world first cultural wellness experience grounded in the healing traditions of Ngāti Whakaue.
Designed to support your recovery after the run, this guided 7-step journey helps to:
– Ease tired muscles
– Calm your nervous system
– Restore balance to your body and mind
– Experience geothermal recovery through hot and cold immersion, with mineral-rich waters drawn from the earth each day to support deep renewal.
Exclusive Offer for Run the Forest Participants
Enjoy 20% off our Restorative Journey
Use code: RTF2026
Valid until 31 July
More Ways to Recover
There are many ways to restore at Wai Ariki:
One-hour geothermal bathing
Massage and facial treatments
Flexible experiences to suit your schedule
Whether you’re running the 7km, 10km, or 21km, Wai Ariki offers the perfect way to unwind and celebrate your achievement.
Plan Your Recovery
Spaces are limited over event weekend, and demand is high. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred time.
👉 Learn more and book your experience:
https://www.wai-ariki.co.nz/runtheforest
👉 View the official Run the Forest event:
Run the Forest website
Nau mai, haere mai — Welcome to Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Where your Run the Forest journey continues beyond the finish line!
