Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa: 2 Hour Restorative Journey Experience on Lake Rotorua

Reconnect with yourself, the land, and Māori culture through the Wai Whakaora Restorative Journey at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Set beside Lake Rotorua, this two-hour wellness experience combines geothermal therapies, cultural storytelling, and restorative rituals inspired by Ngāti Whakaue.

Getting started

Arrive at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa at your selected time and begin your restorative journey with a cultural and wellness guided walk. Start at the Te Hihiri mauri stone, where a blessing helps you release stress and create space for calm and openness before moving through the wellness circuit.

What to expect

• Te Hihiri lifeforce blessing: Begin your journey at the mauri stone with a blessing designed to help you release stress and reconnect with your inner energy.

• Te Ahi Tipua fire & ice experience: Move between therapeutic saunas, a wade pool, and frigidarium as you alternate between warm and cold therapies.

• Geothermal mineral pools: Relax in mineral-rich alkaline pools and cold-water plunges, then enjoy herbal and hydrotherapy pools for a soothing sensory experience.

• Te Pae Paru geothermal mud lounge: Apply natural geothermal mud mixed with indigenous plants and oils to nourish and refresh your skin.

• Kohu Wai Ariki steam room: Finish your wellness circuit in a tranquil steam room with heated stone, giving you time to slow down and reflect.

• Māori cultural storytelling: Throughout the journey, pūrākau, or traditional stories, introduce you to Māori perspectives on restoration, wellbeing, and connection to the land.

• Lakeside setting: Enjoy a peaceful wellness experience beside Lake Rotorua, surrounded by the geothermal landscape and cultural heritage of the region.