Immerse yourself in Wai Ariki Spa’s unique cultural geothermal experience, combining Ngāti Whakaue traditions with Rotorua’s natural geothermal elements through thermal pools, mud, steam and fire & ice therapy.
Immerse yourself in Wai Ariki Spa’s unique cultural wellness experience, where seven thoughtfully curated rituals combine the healing elements of Rotorua’s geothermal landscape with the traditions of Ngāti Whakaue.
Begin your experience at Te Hihiri (The Blessing Stone), where a traditional karakia (blessing) invites you to leave behind the stresses of everyday life and prepare for your restorative journey ahead. Continue through the refreshing Wairere Waterfall Showers, inspired by the cleansing waters of Ngāti Whakaue ancestral lands.
Awaken your senses in Te Tukinga – Tongariro Fire & Ice Caves, where contrasting hot and cold therapies, steam, and dry heat reflect the powerful connection between Ngāti Whakaue culture and Rotorua's geothermal origins. Relax in Te Taiwhanga Matua, a collection of five lake-view thermal pools overlooking Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island, featuring geothermal pools, a hydrotherapy pool, an herbal pool, and an invigorating cold plunge.
Continue your restoration in Te Pae Paru – Geothermal Mud Lounge, where naturally occurring geothermal mud nourishes and revitalises the skin, inspired by traditional Māori healing practices. Unwind in the Kohu Wai Ariki Steam Room, where geothermal steam and heated stone seating create a tranquil space to relax and refresh.
Complete your experience at Te Ngao (The Blessing Stone), with a final blessing that honours your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
This luxurious must-do two-hour experience offers a unique fusion of Māori culture, geothermal wellness, and world-class relaxation. The perfect reset, it invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect.
Spa essentials, including a robe and towel, are provided.
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
Kia ora Jodie, We are delighted to hear that you found your visit peaceful and relaxing. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed exploring the facilities at your own pace and appreciated the cleanliness, amenities, and five-star experience our team aims to provide. We're especially pleased that the beautiful lake views helped make your morning visit even more memorable. Thank you for choosing Wai-Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. We look forward to welcoming you back for another rejuvenating escape soon.
The 2 hour restorative journey was exactly that. If you are travelling to Rotorua, treat yourself to this! You will not regret it! Be sure to immerse yourself in the cold water too :) your body will thank you for it! I would do this over and over again, its that good :) Thank you Waiariki!
Kia ora Roiana, Thank you for taking the time to share such wonderful feedback with us. We are absolutely delighted to hear that you found the Restorative Journey to be exactly that, a truly restorative experience. It is fantastic to know that you embraced the full Journey, including the cold water experience, and felt the benefits it offers. Thank you for your enthusiastic recommendation and for encouraging others to experience Wai-Ariki when visiting Rotorua. Hearing that you would return again and again is one of the greatest compliments we could receive. We truly appreciate your kind words and support, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another restorative journey soon. Ngā mihi.
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jodier1 from New Zealand wrote on 19 August 2026
Peaceful and relaxing
Worth the visit, its a journey of pure relaxation at your own pace. The facility is new and clean, provides robes and towels, use of a locker and shower products, a real 5 star feel. The view over the lake is beautiful, especially early morning. I would recommend this experience if your looking for a pamper day by yourself or with others.