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,…
Thousands of tired legs, happy hearts and muddy shoes made their way from the trails to Wai Ariki’s hot springs this past weekend as Run the Forest 2025 returned to Rotorua on Saturday, 9 August. As principal sponsor of the popular trail event for the second year running, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa once…
Working in one of the most beautiful locations in Aotearoa (arguably the world) at one of the country’s most iconic, award-winning wellness venues, where Natalie Portman has visited and Jason Momoa aka Aquaman is basically a regular, doesn’t sound like the worst job in the world. But for Maia, it’s about much more than the…
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…
Guests of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa were treated to a front row seat to the spectacular 2025 Matariki Aronui drone show, held on the shores of Lake Rotorua in Aotearoa. The sold-out Sip, Show and Soak event, hosted over two nights at Wai Ariki, offered an unforgettable blend of visual wonder and sensory…
