news & events

Wai Ariki guests experience Matariki magic in a stunning drone show
Events

Wai Ariki guests experience Matariki magic in a stunning drone show

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…

A Holistic Approach to Wellness – Meet Kylie Gunn, Wai Ariki’s New Marketing Manager
News | People Stories

A Holistic Approach to Wellness – Meet Kylie Gunn, Wai Ariki’s New Marketing Manager

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…

Māori tourism booms as international tourists demand authentic cultural experiences 
News

Māori tourism booms as international tourists demand authentic cultural experiences 

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…

Wai Ariki showcases Māori innovation on The Drawing Board
News

Wai Ariki showcases Māori innovation on The Drawing Board

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 welcomes champion Māori performing arts group Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue
News

Wai Ariki welcomes champion Māori performing arts group Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue

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…

Meet Akatu Marsters, connecting people, culture and wellbeing at Wai Ariki
News | People Stories

Meet Akatu Marsters, connecting people, culture and wellbeing at Wai Ariki

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…

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