Rotorua’s Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa approaching completion

Rotorua’s new Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa will open in a few weeks delivering one of the most significant spa developments in New Zealand in recent times while also being one of a few indigenous-owned operations in the world.  

Nestled on the foreshore of the stunning Lake Rotorua and meaning ‘Chiefly Waters’, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa has been developed by Pukeroa Oruawhata and will be managed by Belgravia Leisure.  

Wai Ariki combines the region’s healing geothermal waters with the centuries-old legacy of Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing practices and manaakitanga (caring hospitality) to offer an authentic wellness and spa experience for manuhiri (visitors).

Ahead of completion, Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell got an inside look and shared “Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is a welcome refresh to our already established brand as a world class spa and wellness destination. We’re very proud this has been developed locally by Pukeroa.

“It’s been exciting for Rotorua watching this stunning development be built in the past six months. After seeing it today I can’t wait for the doors to open to locals and visitors.”

Ngāti Whakaue businesswoman, Rania Sears has been appointed as Wai Ariki General Manager, with Pukeroa trustees being actively involved in seeing the kaupapa through to its opening.  

Pukeroa deputy chair, David Tapsell notes “Wai Ariki is a game changer for Rotorua, its local economy, tourism sector, the community and our people.

“This is not only the most significant spa development in Aotearoa in recent times – it is also one of a few indigenous-owned operations in the world.  

“Wai Ariki plays to the collective strengths of our region and our iwi. It is the most recent embodiment of the reason the geothermal city of Rotorua was established here in the first place; it allows us to demonstrate and leverage the manaakitanga we are renowned for; it adds to the wealth of quality visitor experiences our district has to offer, and it will reclaim Rotorua’s position as an international spa and wellness destination.

“Bookings are already open online, and we can’t wait for the Belgravia team to open the doors in a few weeks and welcome manuhiri in.”

Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is a 4,453 metre² development designed to take manuhiri on a unique healing and relaxation journey. Every element contributes to a total wellbeing experience through a connection to the Ngāti Whakaue people, and the places and practices that have defined them through the centuries.

More information and bookings available online now at www.wai-ariki.co.nz/

Image (from left): Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa General Manager, Rania Sears, Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell, and Pukeroa Oruawhata Deputy Chair, David Tapsell check out the Salt Sauna (Halotherapy) at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. The Halotherapy room is part of Wai Whakaora – the Restorative Journey experience at Wai Ariki, that involves moving between nine different spaces that transition between hot and cool, mud and water, and air to steam, all designed to achieve maximise therapeutic benefits.