6 top luxury spas in New Zealand

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa, Rotorua

Scooping up gongs in the New Zealand categories of the World Luxury Spa Awards in 2011 and 2012, Wai Ora Lakeside Spa knows a thing or two about pampering its guests. With treatments based on traditional healing techniques of the New Zealand Maori, it’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy accommodation on the shore of Lake Rotarua and dine on Pacific Rim infusion fine dining at Mokoia Rotorua restaurant.

waioraresort.co.nz

Ora Ora Eco Wellness Resort, Kerikeri

Discover what low carbon footprint living feels like in a subtropical escape with a stay at Ora Ora. Hosts Rolf and Inge traded in life in the big city to set up their idyllic piece of paradise and offer guests a luxurious retreat to get away from it all. Combining accommodation in private villas, organic food and beverages and restorative spa and massage treatments, it’s about getting back to nature in the lap of luxury.

oraoraresort.co.nz

Manawa Ridge Luxury Lodge, Waihi

High on the hilltop of the rugged Coromandel Peninsula lies the beautifully situated Manawa Ridge Luxury Lodge. This adobe-style property morphs into its natural surrounds, radiating a warm, welcoming feeling to guests seeking a relaxing getaway. Built entirely from recycled timbers and energy-efficient materials, it perfectly integrates elements of the landscape in its three luxury suites. Hike to nearby Homunga Bay, stopping to picnic on the way, cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail and enjoy meals sourced from the property’s patch.

manawaridge.co.nz

Waitakere Estate, Auckland

Escape to the treetops with a visit to Waitakere Estate, Auckland City’s rainforest retreat. Just 30 minutes from the centre of the city, it’s an oasis of calm and tranquility in a serene native forest setting. Choose from a handful of health and wellbeing packages, dine overlooking the surrounding forest and turn in for the night in a variety of luxury accommodation options.

waitakereestate.co.nz

Dubbed the ‘awesome beast’ of New Zealand’s geothermal attractions, the bubbling, steaming pools of Hells Gate are renowned for their curative and invigorating properties. Its swirling steam has long been a place for warriors to heal their wounds and the tradition continues with guests now welcome to soak in the mineral-rich waters with a variety of packages and spa treatments on offer.

hellsgate.co.nz

Polynesian Spa, Rotorua

Family-owned and operated since 1972, Polynesian Spa is one the country’s oldest international spas and a popular choice for spa-seekers travelling to Rotorua. Whether you’re after the tranquility of the private pools or looking for some energetic time out in the family spa, there are plenty of options to choose from. For the ultimate relief, a haven of spa therapies is available, from purifying mud body wraps to Manuka honey walnut scrubs.

polynesianspa.co.nz