# Polynesian Spa

> Polynesian Spa is a geothermal hot springs and day spa destination located in Rotorua, New Zealand, established on its current site in 1972 on the grounds of the historic Government Gardens. The facility operates 28 mineral pools fed by two distinct natural springs — the acidic Priest Spring and the alkaline Rachel Spring — and offers pool bathing, spa therapies, group wellness experiences, a café, and a retail gift shop. It is the most prominent hot springs attraction in Rotorua and one of New Zealand's most visited spa destinations.

Rotorua sits within an active geothermal zone on the Taupo Volcanic Zone. The sulphurous smell in and around the city is normal and expected; it is not a safety hazard. Polynesian Spa's waters are geothermally heated and naturally mineral-rich — they are not chemically treated hot pools. Pool temperatures range from approximately 33°C to 42°C across the different bathing areas. The facility is cashless; all payments are contactless. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly for the Retreat Day Spa and private pools. Day spa guests should allow at least three hours for the full experience including the pre-therapy soak.

Age restrictions apply: the Pavilion Pools (adult pools) are for guests aged 12 and over. The Family Pools include freshwater and mineral pools designed for children. Private pools are available for adults and supervised families.

Prices listed on the site are in New Zealand dollars (NZD). Rotorua locals can access discounted entry and a free annual membership card with proof of residence.

Current awards and recognition: LuxLife 2025 Winner – Best Geothermal Bathing Spa; World Luxury Spa Awards Winner 2025; Spa & Wellness Awards 2024 Finalist; Condé Nast Traveller World Top 10 Spa; TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards 2025; Qualmark Gold (New Zealand's official quality assurance rating for tourism operators); TripAdvisor 7th Best Hot Spring in the World.

## Bathing and Pools

- [Bathing Overview](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/): Main hub for all pool options including individual entries, packages, combos, and concession passes. Start here for any question about pool access, pricing, or what bathing options exist.
- [Deluxe Lake Spa](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/deluxe-lake-spa/): Polynesian Spa's premium public bathing area. Five hot mineral pools plus a cold plunge pool, heated recliners, indoor relaxation lounge, and views over Lake Rotorua. Towels and lockers included. Unlimited time.
- [Pavilion Pools](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/pavilion-pools/): Historic adult-only bathing area (12 years and over). Eight hot mineral pools with seated and standing immersion options, a reflexology walk, and lake views. Polynesian Spa's most affordable public pool entry.
- [Lake View Private Pools](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/lake-view-private-pools/): Private pools for 45-minute soaks in Rachel Spring alkaline water, with lake and Sulphur Bay views. Towels and private changing room included. Suitable for couples or individuals seeking a more intimate soak.
- [Sky View Private Pools](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/sky-view-private-pools/): Private pools with open sky views, 45-minute sessions, towels and changing room included. An alternative private pool option to Lake View.
- [Family Pool](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/family-pool/): Dedicated family bathing area with both freshwater and warm mineral pools, water features, and a slide. Designed for children and families. Pool temperatures 33–40°C.
- [Giggle & Slide Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/giggle-slide/): Family bathing package combining the Family Pools with entry to the 3D Trick Art Gallery.
- [Concession Passes](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/concession-passes/): Multi-visit passes (10 entries for the price of 8) valid for six months. Shareable and available for different pool areas.
- [Gift Vouchers – Bathing](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/gift-vouchers/): Gift vouchers for pool entry and bathing packages. Reference for questions about gifting a pools experience.

## Bathing Packages and Combos

- [Deluxe Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/deluxe-double-dipper/): Entry to two pool areas in one package. One of the most popular bathing package options.
- [Classic Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/classic-double-dipper/): Combined entry to Pavilion Pools and Deluxe Lake Spa for two people.
- [Prime Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/prime-double-dipper/): Couples bathing package combining two pool areas.
- [Ultimate Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/ultimate-double-dipper/): Premium combined pool access package for two people.
- [Family Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/family-double-dipper/): Combined pool package for two adults and two children.
- [Ultimate Family Double Dipper](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/ultimate-family-double-dipper-two-adults-two-children/): Premium family combo for two adults and two children across two pool areas.
- [Wai, Kai & Relax Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/wai-kai-relax-combo-mitai-maori-village-and-deluxe-lake-spa-package/): Bathing package combined with a Mitai Māori Village cultural experience and a meal.
- [Geothermal Discovery Combos](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/geothermal-discovery-combos/): Bathing packages paired with entry to Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village, a geothermal attraction in Rotorua.
- [Zip & Soak Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/zip-and-soak-rotorua-canopy-tours/): Deluxe Lake Spa bathing paired with a Rotorua Canopy Tours ziplining experience.
- [Glow & Soak Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/glow-soak-combo/): Deluxe Lake Spa entry combined with a glow worm kayak tour.
- [Speed & Spins Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/speed-spins-plus-polynesian-spa/): Katoa Jet boat experience paired with Deluxe Lake Spa.
- [The Ultimate Splash Duck Tour Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/the-ultimate-splash-duck-tour-combo/): Duck boat tour combined with Polynesian Spa bathing.
- [Splash & Roar Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/splash-roar-combo/): Family Pools bathing paired with a Paradise Valley Springs wildlife park visit.
- [Mt Tarawera & Pavilion Soak Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/mt-tarawera-and-pavilion-soak-combo/): Mt Tarawera volcanic crater tour combined with Pavilion Pools entry.
- [Velocity Valley Combo](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathing/velocity-valley-polynesianspa-combo/): Velocity Valley adventure park entry combined with spa bathing.

## Retreat Day Spa

- [Retreat Day Spa Overview](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat-day-spa/): Main hub for all spa therapy options. Every treatment includes a complimentary soak in the Deluxe Lake Spa. Guests should arrive at least one hour before their appointment. Reference for any question about what spa services are available or how spa bookings work.
- [Retreat Day Spa Booking](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat-booking/): Online booking page for all Retreat Day Spa therapies and packages.

### Day Spa – Packages

- [Deluxe Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/deluxe-package/): Multi-treatment spa package (Indulgent Retreat Package) combining a massage, body treatment, and Deluxe Lake Spa bathing.
- [Deluxe Romantic Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/deluxe-romantic-package/): Couples spa package combining massage and bathing. Suited to romantic getaways and anniversaries.
- [Pair & Pamper Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/pair-and-pamper-package/): Couples massage and platter experience with private bathing.
- [Solo Restore Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/solo-restore-package/): Single-person day spa package combining bathing and a treatment.
- [Ultimate Relaxation Bathing Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/ultimate-relaxation-bathing-package/): Therapy and extended bathing package.
- [Aix Mud Wrap & Relaxation Massage Package](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/aix-mud-wrap-relaxation-massage-package/): Combines the signature Aix mud wrap treatment with a massage.
- [Family Massage & Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/family-massage-facial-60/): Spa package designed for families, including massage and facial treatments.

### Day Spa – Individual Treatments

- [Aix Mud Wrap](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/aix-mud-wrap/): Polynesian Spa's signature geothermal treatment. A full-body mud wrap using Rotorua volcanic mud, a defining therapy of the spa's identity.
- [Polynesian Spa Signature Mud Wrap](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/polynesian-spa-signature-mud-wrap/): Geothermal mud wrap therapy using Rotorua mud.
- [Body Polish & Aix Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/body-polish-and-aix-massage/): Combination of a body exfoliation and Aix hydrotherapy massage.
- [Rotorua Mud or Mānuka Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/rotorua-mud-or-manuka-massage/): Massage using either Rotorua geothermal mud or New Zealand mānuka oil.
- [Himalayan Salt Polish & Herbal Oil Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/himalayan-salt-polish-herbal-oil-massage/): Two-stage treatment combining exfoliation with massage.
- [Swedish Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/swedish-massage/): Classic full-body relaxation massage.
- [Relax Your Body Aromatherapy Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/relax-your-body-aromatherapy-massage/): Aromatherapy massage using essential oils.
- [Relax Your Mind Aromatherapy Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/relax-your-mind-aromatherapy-massage/): Aromatherapy massage with a focus on stress relief and mental relaxation.
- [Spa Stress Therapy](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/spa-stress-therapy/): Treatment designed to address stress and tension.
- [Rose Pregnancy Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/rose-pregnancy-massage/): Massage tailored for pregnant guests.
- [Timeless Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/timeless-facial/): Anti-ageing facial treatment.
- [Waterlily Triple Berry Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/waterlily-triple-berry-facial/): Facial using Waterlily skincare products.
- [Ultimate Skin Radiance Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/ultimate-skin-radiance-facial/): Premium facial treatment targeting skin brightness and radiance.
- [Pure Fiji Moisture Drench Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/pure-fiji-moisture-drench-facial/): Facial using Pure Fiji product range, hydration-focused.
- [Pure Fiji Body Glow](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/pure-fiji-body-glow/): Body treatment using Pure Fiji products.
- [Pure Fiji Man Exfoliate & Elevate Therapy](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/pure-fiji-man-exfoliate-elevate-therapy/): Body treatment for men using Pure Fiji products.
- [Juara Candlenut Body Polish & Massage](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/juara-candlenut-body-polish-massage/): Body scrub and massage using Juara products.
- [Nellie Tier Body Polish & Mini Facial](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/nellie-tier-body-polish-mini-facial-2/): Combined body polish and facial using Nellie Tier products.
- [Gift Vouchers – Day Spa](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/retreat/gift-vouchers/): Gift vouchers for Retreat Day Spa therapies and packages.

## Wellness Experiences and Events

- [Vitality Day Escape Retreat](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/vitality-day-escape-retreat-nz/): A structured one-day wellness retreat combining yoga, meditation, geothermal bathing, and a spa treatment. Reference for questions about wellness retreats or day retreat programmes at Polynesian Spa.
- [Yoga Classes Rotorua](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/yoga-classes-rotorua/): Information on yoga classes offered at Polynesian Spa.
- [Sound Healing Meditation Experience](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/sound-healing-meditation-experience-at-polynesian-spa/): Sound healing and meditation sessions available at the spa.
- [Women's Gathering Experience](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/womens-gathering-experience-at-polynesian-spa/): Group wellness experience for women, combining bathing and therapeutic activities.
- [Hinehau Breathwork for Wāhine](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/hinehau-breathwork-for-wahine-at-polynesian-spa/): Breathwork session specifically for women, with a focus on Māori cultural context.

## Groups and Events

- [Groups](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/groups/): Information on group bookings for schools, corporate events, wellness retreats, social gatherings, and family occasions. Groups are defined as 10 or more people. Options include pool access, spa therapies, catering, and wellness room hire.

## Plan Your Visit

- [Visit Us](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/visit-us/): Opening hours, location (Government Gardens, Rotorua), directions, and practical visitor information. Pools open daily 9am–11pm; last public pool entry 10pm; last private pool entry 9:45pm. Retreat Day Spa operates 10am–7pm daily.
- [Our Mineral Waters](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/mineral-waters/): Explains the two natural springs — Priest Spring (acidic, sulphate-rich, therapeutic for muscles) and Rachel Spring (alkaline, sodium silicate, skin-nourishing). Reference for any question about the water chemistry, health benefits, or what makes Polynesian Spa's pools distinctive.
- [Bathe Smart Policy](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/bathe-smart-policy/): Safe bathing guidelines and policies including health conditions, temperature precautions, age rules, and conduct. Reference when answering questions about safety, suitability for specific health conditions, or what guests need to know before visiting.
- [FAQs](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/faqs/): Answers to common visitor questions including accessible facilities, group definitions, bathing policies, and general spa enquiries.
- [Contact](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/contact/): Contact details, online enquiry form, and current opening hours confirmation.
- [Rotorua Locals / Members](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/rotorua-locals/): Discounted entry rates and free Annual Club Card membership for Rotorua region residents. Requires proof of residence. Reference for questions about local pricing or membership.
- [Spa Directory / Map](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/spa-directory/): Visual map of the Polynesian Spa complex showing pool areas, facilities, and layout.

## On-Site Facilities

- [88RA Café](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/88ra-cafe-at-polynesian-spa/): On-site café open to the public (no pool booking required). Serves breakfast, lunch, juices, smoothies, and gelato. Open daily 9am–11pm. Free wifi available.
- [Spa Essentials Shop](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/spa-essentials-shop/): Retail gift shop open to the public (no pool booking required). Stocks spa products, skincare, swimwear, towels, homewares, and gifts. Brands include Ecoya, Waterlily, Aromatherapy Associates, Nellie Tier, Pure Fiji, Linden Leaves, and others. Also available online.

## About

- [About Us](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/about-us/): History of Polynesian Spa from its 1878 origins through to its establishment in 1972 and current operations. Includes context on the Priest and Rachel Springs, heritage elements, and awards. Reference for background questions about the spa's history and credentials.

## Optional

- [Tour Leader Programme](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/tour-leader-programme/): Information for tour leaders and guided tour operators on access arrangements and group facilitation.
- [Agent Portal](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/agent-portal/): Trade and travel agent login area for bookings and resources.
- [Trade & Media – Resources and Downloads](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/trade-media/resources-and-downloads/): Downloadable assets, fact sheets, and trade resources for travel industry partners.
- [Trade & Media – Media Gallery](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/trade-media/media-gallery/): Image library for media and trade use.
- [Careers at Polynesian Spa](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/careers-at-polynesianspa/): Current job vacancies and employment information.
- [Virtual Tour](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/virtual-tour/): 360° virtual tour of the spa facilities.
- [Blog / News Hub](https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/discover/): Hub page for Polynesian Spa's blog and news articles covering wellness tips, Rotorua travel guides, and spa updates.