New Zealand is a beautiful country with a diverse range of landscapes and natural attractions. If you’re looking to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand), there are many spa options to consider to relax and start off 2023 in the best way.
One option is to visit a natural hot spring or geothermal spa. New Zealand is home to several geothermal areas, including Rotorua and Taupo, which offer a range of spa experiences. You can relax in natural hot springs, thermal pools, and spa baths, and many of these facilities also offer massages, saunas, and other treatments.
Ohakune Hot Tubs: Reset the mind and soul amongst the elements at the newly opened Ohakune Hot Tubs. Relax and rejuvenate in a hot, healing soak in the crisp alpine air. Tucked away at the foothills of Mt Ruapehu in Ohakune, these open-air, wood fired hot tubs are available for private bookings during the day or under the stars.
Polynesian Spa: The iconic Polynesian Spa in Rotorua celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind with 28 geothermal hot pools and a variety of packages and treatments to choose from.
He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools: Located just 15 minutes away from Christchurch, visitors can enjoy stunning ocean views while soaking in one of the five luxurious hot pools. He Puna Taimoana also has a plunge pool, steam room and a sauna with beachside views.
Otago Central Rail Trail: Delve deep into the heart of Central Otago on New Zealand’s original Great Ride and cycle your way through vast rocky landscapes, spectacular gorges, railway tunnels, viaducts, and preserved gold mining settlements. Check out Adventure South for guided cycling trips.
Canterbury Stargazing and Lakes: Explore the beauty and excitement of Christchurch, South Canterbury and the Mackenzie region on this 4-day itinerary. Begin in Christchurch before journeying through the rural settlements of Ashburton, Timaru and Waimate.
Horse Treks – Experience some of New Zealand’s most pristine landscapes with a beautiful ride on horseback at the head of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s longest lake. Riding alongside braided, glacial fed rivers. This adventure offers river crossings and spectacular scenery, including views of The Misty Mountains, The Wizard’s Vale and The Mighty Methedras. Check out Lighthorse Adventures for an unforgettable experience.
Shamarra Alpacas – Meet and bond with cuddly alpacas on the panoramic Banks Peninsula in Canterbury. Great for animal lovers!
Akaroa Fox Sailing: Sail with the dolphins in the crater of an extinct volcano on New Zealand’s oldest gaffed rigged ketch and enjoy the wildlife of Akaroa Harbour up close.
Tekapo Wellness: Tekapo Wellness offers retreats, workshops and classes set amidst the majestic mountains of Lake Tekapo to help you better connect with your body, mind and soul. Imagine doing yoga sun salutations to the grand view of mountains and lakes.
Ngawha Springs: Bathe in the healing waters at Ngawha Springs and let the ancient energy revitalise your senses while the minerals from deep in the earth permeate your body. The mineral-rich hot waters of Ngawha Springs bubble up from deep within the Earth. Nestled in the heart of Te Tai Tokerau, Northland, the springs have a long history of being a restorative and healing place to visit. The people of Ngapuhi often visit the natural springs to replenish their wairua (spirit), alleviate the sensation of pain and repair common ailments.
Floatation Sanctuary: Hit reset when you float weightlessly in luxurious mineral-rich crystal-clear water saturated with Epsom Salts (Magnesium Sulphate), with a buoyancy level that is denser than the dead sea. Enter a state of complete relaxation as you escape the sensory bombardment of the world and allow yourself to be calmed by stillness.
Taranaki Thermal Spas: Experience wellness sourced from the earth to you in New Plymouths very own backyard with a range of massage therapies, pools, sauna and beauty treatments.
Wellington Apothecary: A botanical factory, herbal dispensary and natural therapy clinic, book facials and massages or arrange a Bespoke Blending Consultation and your own create botanical perfumes, natural skincare, probiotic sodas, and more at this temple of wellness.
If you’re looking for a more active spa experience, you could consider a spa retreat that combines relaxation with outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling. These retreats often offer guided tours and activities, as well as spa treatments and relaxation time.
No matter what type of spa experience you’re looking for, New Zealand has something to offer. With its stunning landscapes and abundance of natural beauty, it’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Images: ENVATO, Explore NZ 2023
