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Rotorua’s Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, celebrated its first anniversary, Monday July 15 with a celebration that highlighted its status as Rotorua’s premier spa and wellness destination.
As a landmark project led by Ngāti Whakaue, Wai Ariki draws from ancient geothermal healing traditions, seamlessly blending heritage with luxury.
The $60 million facility was envisioned to reclaim Rotorua’s legacy as a spa and wellness haven, and over the past year, it has done just that. The spa stands proudly on Ngāti Whakaue land, a symbol of cultural revival and economic aspiration, offering a unique fusion of Māori wellness practices and modern spa luxuries.
General manager Debbie Robertson expressed her excitement and pride as the spa approached this milestone. “It’s amazing. An amazing feat. It’s gone so quickly it’s going, it’s going extremely fast. So blessed to be here.” she says.
The event featured a cake-cutting ceremony attended by over 100 guests, including staff, board members, and key community figures.
The evening was filled with entertainment, speeches, and a chance to reconnect with the community and industry partners who have supported Wai Ariki’s journey.
Debbie says “It’ll be amazing to be able to share it in our space, celebrating us as opposed to using an external event.”
Reflecting on the past year, she highlighted the spa’s achievements and the positive reception it has received both domestically and internationally.
“We have had great feedback from the US and Europe which is great because they really understand Māori culture. And because we are a wellness retreat with cultural infusion, its unlike anything you would get on an international scale. So it just highlights the uniqueness and that that world class proposition that we have.” she says.
Wai Ariki’s first year has been marked by success, growth, and the spreading of its unique cultural wellness experience across the globe. As it looks to the future, the spa aims to continue building on this foundation, enhancing Rotorua’s reputation as a world-class wellness destination.
