Discover Polynesian Spa’s mineral waters

Polynesian Spa is the only place in New Zealand where guests can experience two different natural mineral springs side by side. Our geothermal bathing experience is shaped by the alkaline Rachel Spring and the acidic Priest Spring, each with its own mineral profile, feel, and bathing benefits.

What makes Polynesian Spa’s mineral waters unique?

Polynesian Spa is unique because guests can bathe in both Rachel Spring and Priest Spring waters in one location. These are two distinct natural mineral springs with different properties, and together they create a geothermal bathing experience that cannot be found anywhere else in New Zealand.

The waters are naturally sourced and deeply connected to Rotorua’s geothermal landscape. For generations, people have come to this area to soak in mineral-rich waters and enjoy the restorative qualities that made Rotorua famous as a bathing destination.

Today, those same spring waters continue to shape the experience at Polynesian Spa, from quiet adult bathing and private pools to scenic lakeside soaking.

What is the difference between Rachel Spring and Priest Spring?

How do the two waters feel?

One of the most interesting parts of a visit to Polynesian Spa is that guests can feel the difference between the two spring types.

Rachel Spring water is often remembered for the way it leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth after a soak. Its silica-rich, alkaline composition gives it a gentler feel that many guests associate with relaxation and skin comfort.

Priest Spring water feels more mineral-rich and distinctive. Guests often choose it when they are looking to unwind physically and settle into the deeper warmth of geothermal bathing.

This contrast is one of the clearest ways to understand the Polynesian Spa experience. It is not just about bathing in hot pools. It is about experiencing two different mineral waters and discovering what feels best for your body.

Where can guests experience Rachel Spring and Priest Spring?

Guests can experience these mineral waters across different bathing areas at Polynesian Spa.

Pavilion Pools

The Pavilion Pools include both Rachel Spring and Priest Spring pools. This adult area offers a mix of geothermal pool types, a reflexology walk, and lakeside views, with no time limit.

Deluxe Lake Spa

Deluxe Lake Spa includes both Rachel Spring and Priest Spring pools in a scenic lakeside setting, along with towels, lockers, shower products, heated recliners, and relaxation spaces.

Private Pools

Our Lake View Private Pools and Sky View Private Pools are filled with Rachel Spring water and offer a more private bathing experience.

Family Pools

The Family Pools include Rachel Spring mineral pools alongside a freshwater pool, creating an all-ages geothermal bathing option.

Are Polynesian Spa’s springs natural?

Rachel Spring and Priest Spring are both naturally occurring geothermal mineral springs connected to the Polynesian Spa experience.

Rachel Spring is located in Rotorua’s Government Gardens and is channelled to the spa. Priest Spring rises on site and remains part of the original geothermal bathing story connected to this location.

While modern systems are used to maintain consistency and comfort across the bathing areas, the mineral-rich spring water remains the foundation of the experience.

Why are these waters important to Rotorua’s history?

The mineral waters at Polynesian Spa are part of Rotorua’s long bathing heritage. The site has been connected to geothermal bathing since the late 1800s, when the region gained international attention for the restorative qualities of its mineral springs.

Rachel Spring and Priest Spring helped shape Rotorua’s reputation as a place people came to bathe, recover, and reconnect. These same waters continue to define Polynesian Spa today, linking each soak to the wider story of place, geothermal activity, and wellness in Rotorua.

For many guests, this adds another layer to the experience. Bathing here is not only relaxing. It is also a way to connect with one of New Zealand’s most historic geothermal wellness sites.

Experience Rotorua’s mineral waters for yourself

From quiet adult bathing to private pools and scenic lakeside soaking, Polynesian Spa offers several ways to experience Rachel Spring and Priest Spring waters.

Whether you are drawn to the skin-softening qualities of Rachel Spring, the mineral intensity of Priest Spring, or the chance to try both in one visit, this is a geothermal bathing experience shaped by place, history, and naturally sourced mineral water.