The five pools I spend more than an hour in are located in Wai Whakaora the larger of the spa’s two distinctive areas, while the second area, Te Ahuru Mowai is where guests go for traditional Maori massages, facials, body treatments and more bathing.
Bathing is a central focus here and with Rotorua’s unique geothermal activity supplying a natural source of mineral-rich waters, it’s no surprise that the spa makes the most of the water’s therapeutic properties.
The final stage of the journey involves a self-applied mud body mask. I scoop out the mineral-rich, essential oil-infused mud from a wooden vat and slather myself in the mixture. Then I recline on one of the heated reclining seats to let it dry. After 10 minutes, I feel the mask cracking and tightening, prompting me to move to the steam room for a rinse-off.
Applying mineral-rich mud is one of the therapuetic treatments available.Credit: Graeme Murray
It’s dark in the steam room, and for some reason, I feel as if life is moving in slow motion. The steam veils my body and the mud softens. As I rinse it off, it’s as if I’m washing away much more than just mud. It’s as if my layers of stress and tension are dissolving into nothingness. I know it won’t last long, though.
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Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa is an adults-only spa and I’ve taken longer than anticipated. I know my husband and kids are outside waiting, probably wondering if I’ve decided to take up permanent residence here.
The details
Visit
The two-hour Restorative Journey and Sanctuary Bathing at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa costs NZD$155 ($139). Massage from NZD$195; body treatments from NZD$275.
See wai-ariki.co.nz
Stay
The family-friendly Ripple Rotorua offers comfortable units, some with outdoor hot tubs, along with an onsite restaurant, a heated swimming pool and a games room. From NZD$220 a night.
See ripplerotorua.co.nz
