Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa Restorative Journey (2hrs)
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa is the only Māori Cultural Wellness Spa in New Zealand proudly owned by an local iwi (tribe), Ngāti Whakaue.
To maintain a relaxed atmosphere, only 16 guests are welcomed per 30 minutes time slot, ensuring comfort and room to unwind.
*Cafe and retail onsite.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Age restrictions, suitable for 16years and older
Not recommended for those with high or low blood pressures
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Two hour Wellness Journey
Te Ngao - Closing Māori blessing
Te Hihiri: Lifeforce & Energy Stone - Blessing Offered
Water station facilities
Kohu Wai Ariki - Steam Room with heated stone
Te Pae Paru - Geothermal Mud Lounge (self application natural mud mixed with indigenous plant/oils)
Te Taiwhanga Matua - Geothermal mineral alkaline, cold-water plunge, herbal, and hydrotherapy pools
Te Ahi Tipua: Fire & Ice room with saunas, wade pool and frigidarium
Cultural & Wellness Guided Walk through Restorative Journey
Stunning views overlooking Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island
Locker, robe and towel included
Transfers not included - Self Drive Only
No food or beverages provided
What To Expect
Experience the Wai Whakaora Restorative Journey—a two-hour, culturally rich spa experience inspired by Ngāti Whakaue and set by Lake Rotorua. Begin at the mauri stone, releasing stress and receiving a blessing to create space for calm and openness. Throughout the journey, pūrākau (stories) guide each therapy. Start with refreshing waterfall showers, followed by therapeutic saunas to unwind. Alternate between hot and cold therapies to energise your senses. Relax in mineral-rich geothermal pools, enjoy a rejuvenating hydrotherapy experience, and soothe your skin in the mud lounge with nourishing mineral-rich muds. Finish in the tranquil steam room, reflecting on this blend of relaxation and cultural enrichment. The Wai Whakaora Restorative Journey is more than just a spa treatment; it’s a deeply immersive, culturally enriching experience that connects you to the land, the heritage, and yourself. Leave feeling completely renewed, balanced, and reconnected to the beauty of Rotorua’s landscape and the stories of the Ngāti Whakaue people.
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Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa Restorative Journey (2hrs)
Reviews
40 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Enter relaxation, plus!!!!!!
Simon C,
Jul 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Wow! What an amazing experience! Staff were friendly, helpful and genuinely interested! Facilities were perfect. The perfect place to visit to relax and recharge! Amazing!.
Amazing experience
Karen P,
May 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00So relaxing and just wat I needed , we were not rushed and I enjoyed every minimise I spent there . Would definitely go again
We both really enjoyed the journey treatments and spas. We will do it again
Imran B,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00The experience was really amazing and relaxing. So nice to do the 3 types of saunas and the ice baths. The massaging water beds are amazing, must do them again.
Vacation Relaxation
Laura I,
Mar 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing and relaxing two hours with clean facilities, friendly staff, and a peaceful environment. Quality facilities.
Restorative and Lovely
Kimberly T,
Feb 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00Perfect spa experience with Māori cultural elements- the guide shows you the path, then leaves you to enjoy on your own. Steam rooms, saunas, cool plunges and showers, self mud application - everything restorative and lovely!
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