Wai Ariki celebrates its first internship cohort
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is proudly celebrating the completion of its very first internship programme, welcoming two aspiring therapists into an immersive eight week learning experience grounded deeply in te ao Māori.
A journey of reconnection and growth
For Kaitlyn Tane, the internship marked a powerful personal milestone. Only weeks after welcoming her second baby, she embraced the challenge with the support of her partner and whānau. The programme strengthened her cultural connection and encouraged her to bring more te reo Māori into her everyday life, something especially meaningful with both of her children attending kōhanga.
More than anything, Kaitlyn valued the hands on learning, the immersion in te ao Māori, and the opportunity to reconnect with parts of her identity she felt had faded after high school.
Reclaiming culture through wellness
For Courtney Kaa, the experience was deeply transformative. She describes her internship as a journey of reclamation, a reconnection to her Māori heritage and cultural grounding. Finding a workplace that nurtured that journey was essential.
At Wai Ariki, she discovered the joy of caring for manuhiri from a place of cultural strength. She hopes visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and richness of Māori culture, something they can carry with them long after their visit.
A milestone for Wai Ariki
This inaugural internship marks an important step in Wai Ariki’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent through meaningful, culturally grounded learning experiences. Over eight weeks, both interns gained real world experience within a uniquely Māori wellness environment, leaving with a strengthened sense of identity, purpose, and confidence.
Ahuru Mōwai – Spa Sanctuary Manager, Karen Aleksich, said they are excited to welcome future interns as their kaupapa continues to grow and evolve.
“It is a proud moment for their whānau, their mentors, and the entire Wai Ariki team”, she said.
For more information on the internship programme, please contact us.
Pictured: Ahuru Mōwai – Sanctuary at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
