Rotorua's Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa moves closer to completion

After five years of planning, geotechnical preparation, COVID challenges and building, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa in Rotorua is edging closer to completion, with the roof now in place on the significant development.

Set to open in mid-2023, the 4,453 metre² development on the shores of Lake Rotorua the spa attraction aims to offer a unique cultural wellness offering.

David Tapsell, Deputy Chairman of developer and owner the Pukeroa Oruawhata Group, says the development of Wai Ariki has surpassed multiple obstacles, including COVID lockdowns, supply issues and the changing economy.

Tapsell notes “the building is really taking shape and we are now able to see and feel the spaces that make this place so unique.”

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

Tapsell says Wai Ariki will take manuhiri on a unique healing and relaxation journey, with every perfectly designed element contributing to a transformative experience to support total wellbeing.

The site has two main spa areas: Te Puna Kaukau KoruhuhÅ« and Te Ahuru MÅwai l The Sanctuary - a premium space for bathing and spa treatments. There is also a café and gift shop.

Within Te Puna Kaukau Koruhuhū, manuhiri will experience Haumanu Haerenga, a restorative journey made up of a series of hot and cold experiences designed to maximise therapeutic benefit.

The journey includes unique features such as a herb pool, which combines mineral water with the aromatherapy properties of native plants to support calmness and relaxation; a mud experience, and a frigidarium, historically the cold room in an ancient Roman bathhouse.

Tapsell says NgÄti Whakaue not only own Wai Ariki, but have driven the concept and development, with a deep focus on authenticity.

He adds “every element of the building design, spa experience, and manuhiri journey are founded on NgÄti Whakaue principles, practices, and stories, reflecting our relationship with the natural environment from the heavens to the water and the earth.

"Wai Ariki is grounded in te ao MÄori, visible through the physical design of the building, its unique spa and wellness experiences, and authentic manaakitanga (caring hospitality)."

Tapsell says Wai Ariki is the living embodiment of the reason the geothermal city of Rotorua was first established, noting “since the 1800s, people have been visiting Rotorua to experience the region’s healing geothermal waters. Wai Ariki reclaims our city’s title and re-positions Rotorua as an international spa and wellness destination.”

He concludes "Wai Ariki will contribute to the ongoing growth of the local and international visitor economy, enhancing Rotorua’s existing spa, health, wellness and visitor experiences.

"The development will significantly support the economic recovery from COVID-19 by prompting manuhiri to stay longer and experience more, in our rohe."

Wai Ariki will be managed by Belgravia Leisure.

Once open, Wai Ariki will employ 40 staff in the first instance, increasing to over 60 staff in time.

Lower image shows geothermal activity at Rotorua.