Unwind Like a Professional: Rotorua’s Top Spots to Relax after Business Events
November 10, 2023
Heading to Rotorua for a conference at the Energy Events Centre, the Sir Howard Morrison Centre or one of the city’s many function venues? We understand that long meetings, bustling trade shows, and busy expos can be mentally and physically draining. After these big days, you deserve to relax, rejuvenate, and make the most of your time in Rotorua. We’ve got you covered with the city’s top spots to unwind, and of course, we’re starting with the award-winning Polynesian Spa’s hot pools and spa therapies.
A true gem that embodies Rotorua’s natural beauty and historic importance – Polynesian Spa offers bathing experiences for groups of all sizes. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, the Polynesian Spa is a haven of tranquillity that combines the therapeutic benefits of geothermal waters with a stunning lakeside location.
When you’re in need of relaxation, few places compare to the experience of soaking in the renowned hot pools of Polynesian Spa, open from 9am-11pm every day. Perhaps you’ll choose the Deluxe Lake Spa, offering a serene view and a variety of healing benefits from Rotorua’s iconic Priest and Rachael Springs. Or the adults-only Pavilion Pools could be perfect for your group – complete with reflexology walk that encourages blood flow throughout your body. These hot pools are your ticket to soothing tired muscles, finding your balance, and replenishing your energy after a busy day on the tools.
For something truly special, treat your team to a spa therapy. A signature geothermal mud wrap utilises the therapeutic properties of Rotorua’s mineral-rich mud to detoxify and rejuvenate your body, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised. Or opt for the popular Swedish massage to take a load off and say goodbye to any stress or tension.
Add on some time in our Wellness & Events Room and include a yoga, meditation, or wellbeing session during your visit to truly switch off and reset.
Now that you’re feeling relaxed, it’s time to explore Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene with the team. Rotorua boasts some fantastic dinner options to indulge your palates.
The Fainting Goat is a must-visit – their menu emphasises sharing and celebrating all things local. Loaded share plates, foot-long gourmet pizzas and seafood platters that will have everyone reaching for another bite are perfectly complemented by local brews and all your favourite cocktails.
Or if you’re a fan of cosy and intimate settings, Atticus Finch is the place to be, in the heart of Rotorua’s Eat Streat. This charming eatery offers a diverse menu featuring New Zealand’s finest produce. Playful plates are fresh, flavoursome, and ideal for groups to share. Strike up a conversation with clients or colleagues as you settle in for a culinary journey that will excite your taste buds.
Another gem to book a table at is Poco – offering contemporary tapas and Mediterranean-inspired dishes starring locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. Try a bit of everything, accompanied by a glass from the delightful hand-picked wine list.
Summertime calls for making the most of the long evenings. Or if you’ve got a bonus day off between appointments or meetings, the rich landscapes and natural beauty of Rotorua is calling.
Just a short drive from the city centre, you can immerse yourself in the magic of the Redwoods Treewalk. Walk among towering redwood trees on suspended bridges and stand in awe of the enchanting forest canopy. It’s a serene experience that’s equally as stunning during the day, or at night after your networking and conferencing – where the path is illuminated by giant lanterns.
For an authentic cultural experience combined with natural beauty, consider a visit to Mitai Māori Village. This evening of performance and feasting will immerse your group in Māori culture, as you witness a powerful haka, a traditional powhiri welcoming ceremony, and arguably the tastiest hāngi in town. The tranquil surroundings of the village, complete with lush greenery and the serene waters of a bubbling spring, make this a fantastic location for team bonding.
As you can see, Rotorua offers the perfect blend of culinary, cultural, and natural escapes that are sure to re-energise you after your conference, trade show, or expo. After all, you’ve worked hard, and you deserve nothing less than the finest that New Zealand’s geothermal capital has to offer.
