Relax, Restore, and Reconnect: A Rotorua Wellness Retreat at On The Point

While known for adventure activities, rich Māori culture, and striking geothermal landscapes, Rotorua is also quietly establishing itself as a hub for wellness experiences. Here, where steam drifts up from the earth and mineral-rich waters have soothed visitors for generations, a wellness getaway feels natural. 

Set on the peaceful shores of Lake Rotorua, On The Point offers a refined and tranquil setting for restoring mind, body, and spirit. You might be planning a relaxing weekend away with friends, a quiet couples retreat in Rotorua, or even a private Rotorua wellness retreat for a group. No matter what brings you to Rotorua, we invite you to unwind, recharge, and discover the many opportunities for relaxation just moments from our doorstep. 

Why is Rotorua the Wellness Capital of New Zealand? 

While not an official title, Rotorua's self-proclaimed status as New Zealand's wellness capital stems from our extraordinary geothermal landscape - a place where centuries of Māori healing traditions meet modern therapeutic practices.  

With over 1,200 natural features where sulphur, silica, and calcium-enriched waters provide therapeutic benefits, Rotorua is a sanctuary with an abundance of natural resources you simply can't find elsewhere. Combined with traditional Māori healing practices such as mirimiri massage and rongoā herbal medicine, the wellness experiences here have often been described as transformative.  

In Rotorua, the earth itself is your spa, offering natural remedies that have attracted those seeking restoration for generations. 

Wellness Experiences in Rotorua 

As you can imagine, with many natural resources, the possibilities for a truly rejuvenating wellness retreat here are endless. From standout spa experiences to simply being in nature, we've compiled a list of notable activities and experiences focused on holistic health. 

Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa 

Just a 10-minute drive from the lodge, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa offers a transformative wellness experience grounded in the healing traditions of Ngāti Whakaue. Overlooking Lake Rotorua, this indigenous-owned facility combines the restorative properties of geothermal waters with centuries of Māori wisdom.​ 

The signature experience, Wai Whakaora (Restorative Journey), guides guests through a thoughtfully designed series of spaces, including mineral alkaline pools, herbal bathing, cold plunges, and hydrotherapy elements. Each stage of the 1 to 2-hour experience is crafted to cleanse, uplift, and restore both body and wairua (spirit).​ 

For deeper relaxation, the Āhuru Mōwai (Sanctuary) offers a range of luxurious spa therapies, all rooted in traditional healing practices. Choose from purifying facials and refocusing massages to replenishing body treatments and bathing in private pools. These treatments incorporate natural and native ingredients such as Mānuka honey, Kawakawa and Rotorua thermal mud, to restore balance and wellbeing.​ 

Wai Ariki stands apart for its cultural integrity, blending authentic Māori practices with premium wellness in a uniquely Aotearoa setting. No matter which offering you choose, you're guaranteed to leave feeling relaxed and reconnected. 

Polynesian Spa 

Polynesian Spa is one of Rotorua’s most iconic destinations, known for its healing geothermal waters, having been a favourite for both locals and visitors for over 50 years. With stunning views of Lake Rotorua, this legendary spa offers a relaxing and therapeutic experience for all ages. 

The spa is home to 28 pools fed by two natural springs: the acidic Priest Spring and the alkaline Rachel Spring. These pools, which are split across five core areas, each with their own unique mineral composition and specific temperature. Choose from the variety of acidic pools, perfect for soothing tired muscles and achy joints, or opt for the alkaline pools, a natural antiseptic great for nourishing the skin. No matter which you choose to bathe in, your body will feel calm and your mind soothed. 

For further relaxation, the day spa offers a range of treatments using the area’s natural geothermal muds and locally sourced ingredients like Mānuka honey - unwind with a calming massage, detox with a purifying facial, or refresh with a body treatment. 

Polynesian Spa’s peaceful, lakeside location makes it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the serene atmosphere. After a day of pampering, you’ll leave feeling completely rejuvenated. 

Whakarewarewa Forest 

If you’re looking to slow down and find some calm, the Whakarewarewa Forest—known to many as the Redwoods—is just the place. Only ten minutes from our luxury Rotorua lodge, this stunning forest is home to towering Californian Redwoods, peaceful native bush, and a network of well-marked trails perfect for clearing your head. 

There’s something deeply grounding about being surrounded by trees that have stood quietly for over a century. The filtered light, fresh air, and earthy scent of the forest floor all work together to help you feel a little more balanced and present. 

The Redwood Memorial Grove Walk is a favourite—it’s flat, easy, and takes about 30 minutes to complete the loop. While on the shorter side, it's ideal for taking in the magnificent surrounding forest. If you’re after more of a challenge (and a great view), the Tokorangi Pa Track is a 3-hour loop that offers just enough elevation to get your heart going without taking away from the sense of calm. 

Sometimes, the most healing moments are the simplest: a walk in the woods, a deep breath of pine-scented air, and time away from the rush of daily life. 

Wellness Experiences at On The Point 

While there’s no shortage of wellness experiences and activities to discover around Rotorua, it would be remiss of us not to share what’s available right here at our luxury lakefront lodge. During your stay, you’ll find there’s no need to venture far — rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation are all close at hand. 

Indulge in Onsite Spa Treatments 

Our onsite spa offers a curated selection of treatments that aim to calm and relax, using locally sourced natural products and essential oils. Choose from soothing massages or even rejuvenating facials upon request. Treatments are available individually or as part of a couple’s experience (subject to availability), making them a perfect addition to any wellness or romantic getaway. 

 

What makes our spa experiences truly special is the opportunity to enjoy your treatment on the balcony, with the serene lakefront as your backdrop — this is a fantastic location to enjoy being pampered amongst nature. 

Our treatment menu includes: 

• Swedish Massage - A classic, invigorating massage designed to ease muscle tension and promote deep relaxation. 
• Mud Massage - Begin with gentle body brushing before Rotorua thermal mud is applied to your back. While the mud works its magic, unwind with a leg and foot massage. A warm towel removes the mud, followed by a soothing back, neck, and head massage to complete the experience. 
• De-Stress Muscle Massage - A full-body massage using aromatherapy-based products to relieve tightness, calm the mind, and ease muscle fatigue. 
• Aroma Relax Massage - A deeply relaxing full-body massage enhanced with your choice of three aromatherapy oil blends, specially selected to support stress relief and emotional balance. 
• Pregnancy Massage - A gentle and nurturing treatment tailored for expectant mothers in their second trimester. Designed to soothe and support the body during this special time. 
  
  

 

Nourish Yourself with Fresh, Seasonal Cuisine 

At The Mains at On The Point, dining is more than just a meal — it’s a continuation of your wellness journey. Our onsite fine dining restaurant takes a holistic approach to nourishment, celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally, and onsite, wherever possible. 

Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, whether you're starting the day with a vibrant fruit plate and smoothie, or winding down with a beautifully plated evening meal. Expect to see the best of the region on your plate — from crisp garden greens and sustainably sourced meats to delicate seafood and handmade desserts (because wellness is about nourishing your soul too!). 

Our chefs are passionate about creating dishes that are not only delicious but also hero the best of the region's ingredients. With stunning lake views, elegant surroundings, and menus that change with the seasons, dining at The Mains is a restorative experience in itself. 

 
Wellness Retreats at the Lodge 

On The Point offers a beautiful, peaceful setting for anyone looking to host their own private wellness retreat too. With the option to book out the lodge, you can create a personalised weekend focused on relaxation, mindfulness, and connection. 

Choose to reserve the seven suites in the main lodge for your guests to enjoy their own private space or opt for our villa apartments which offer a central area for everyone to gather before heading back to their rooms. 

The Chapel, with its stunning view over Lake Rotorua, is perfect for yoga, meditation, or sound healing sessions designed to leave you feeling restored. 

Take advantage of our close proximity to central Rotorua and its wide array of wellness offerings, or enjoy onsite treatments and massages that let you fully unwind in the peaceful surroundings. 

For meals, you can enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes at The Mains, or bring in your own private chef for a more personalised dining experience in the villas. Either way, you will be greeted by expansive lake views during each meal. 

At On The Point, the possibilities are endless. With experience creating bespoke events in Rotorua, our expert team can help bring your dream wellness retreat to life. 

 

Why Stay at On The Point 

On The Point is a place where you can simply arrive, unwind, and feel taken care of. Luxurious rooms, breath-taking views overlooking the lake, indulgent spa treatments, and nourishing meals set the tone for rest and relaxation. 

Spend your days soaking up the peace and quiet, discovering the best of Rotorua's wellness experiences, or sharing a special moment with someone you love. From weekends away to recharge and honeymoon escapes to solo or group wellness getaways, every stay promises a touch of luxury with endless relaxation. 

 

Your Recharge Weekend or Wellness Retreat Awaits 

In Rotorua, nature’s powerful elements provide the perfect destination for relaxation and renewal. From a DIY wellness escape with your special someone to a fully customised wellness weekend, On The Point offers the space, serenity, and luxury to make it unforgettable. 

 

Let us help you reconnect and recharge - book your relaxing stay today, or get in touch to begin planning your very own wellness retreat.  

 

Your path to rejuvenation starts right here, in Rotorua.