Wai Ariki in the running for top international wellness awards
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 heart of Rotorua. Since opening in June 2023, Wai Ariki has welcomed thousands of manuhiri (visitors) to embark on a journey grounded in the values, traditions and cultural heritage of Ngāti Whakaue.
Wai Ariki is a place of restoration and connection, offering a unique Aotearoa experience that blends natural elements, cultural storytelling and holistic wellbeing in a way unlike anywhere else in the world.
Debbie Robertson, General Manager at Wai Ariki, says, “We’re incredibly proud to see Wai Ariki recognised on the world stage. These nominations reflect the deep cultural foundation and commitment to excellence that shape every aspect of the experience we offer our manuhiri.”
The World Spa Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in spa and wellness tourism through its annual awards programme. The awards aim to inspire exceptional standards and connect spa consumers with the best in spa and wellness tourism worldwide.
We’re proud to represent Aotearoa on the world stage and invite your support to help us bring these awards home.
Voting closes on 5 August 2025. Please click the links below to cast your votes:
Thank you for helping us bring these awards home and for supporting Māori excellence in wellness tourism.
