The 6 best Rotorua Spas, Mud Pools & relaxing retreats
If you’re looking for for something pretty spectacular to do whilst on your North Island Itinerary, you need to visit the Rotorua Spas & Mud Pools!
It’s exceptional! If you’re thinking of bathing in thick, mineral mud that’s said to have exceptional beneficial properties for the skin, and of course, the soul!
I spent several days around Rotorua, exploring the various mud pools, geothermal steam vents, and foot spas, and honestly, it’s one of my favourite places in all of New Zealand.
If you’re in the area, why not check out the free Geothermal Parks in Rotorua where you can go for walks?
Don’t miss nearby…
The Huka Falls Taupo, the Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walks, one of the best hikes in the world: the Tongariro Crossing, and lastly, the free Glow Worm Bushwalk.
Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel blogs for on your South Island itinerary or North Island road trip. Not sure where to go? Have a look at my article on North VS South Island New Zealand, which is better?
Best activities & tours on North Island
Here are some of the best New Zealand North Island tours! Honestly, I recommend doing at least 2-3 of them – Hobbiton, the Glow Worm Caves, a Maori Cultural experience… if you can do all of them, it’s worth it!
I always compare tours on Viator and Get Your Guide to check prices and different tour availability.
| Hobbiton day tour – This is a must do on North Island – it’s a right of passage! White Water Rafting Rotorua – This has the HIGHEST commercial waterfall to raft down, great for adrenaline junkies. Glow worm caves – Dont miss the iconic glow worm caves on North Island! Maori Cultural Experience – one of the most impactful and immersive experiences you need to try on North Island! Hell’s Gate Mud Bath Spa – if you’re after some pampering, this is for you! Waiheke Island Wineries + dolphin tours – Waiheke is known for the dolphin cruises and the wineries. Pick a tour and don’t miss this! |
The best Rotorua Spas & Mud Pools
If you’re after some excellent Rotorua Spas, then have a look at the below!
Hells Gate Spa
If you’re heading to Rotorua, you absolutely must stop by the Rotorua Mud Pools, it’s definitely up there for one of the best Rotorua Spas.
It’s exceptional. The perfect way to rest and relax, whilst enjoying the unique mineral properties of the geothermal landscape.
It’s something you can only do here in Rotorua, so it absolutely can’t be missed and is the ultimate luxury spa!
So splurge out and enjoy one of the most unique and fun spas you can hope for!
As you arrive, the staff will explain the procedures, where to go, where to get changed and how best to enjoy your mud pool spa experience. It wont be long before you’re slathering yourself in mineral muds, and relaxing in utter bliss!
Polynesian Spa Rotorua
If you’re heading to Rotorua, you’ve gotta check out the Polynesian Spa right next to Lake Rotorua!
It’s right next to the Millennium Hotel, so if you want to stay at this spa, it’s right on your doorstep.
Polynesian Spa is the original and iconic geothermal bathing experience in New Zealand, offering a range of acidic and alkaline mineral springs, as well as unique day spa therapies for the ultimate rejuvenation.
It’s this awesome spot with hot springs and spa treatments right by the lake.
The water is full of minerals, so it’s super good for chilling out and making your skin feel amazing. You can just rock up most of the time, but if you want a fancy treatment or a private pool, it’s smart to book ahead. Don’t forget your swimsuit, towel, and maybe a cozy robe. They’ve even got a cafe if you need a snack.
You can spend a couple of hours or make it a Day Spa in Rotorua – totally up to you!
But it’s not just about the healing waters. Polynesian Spa is also a place for social connection. For generations, the hot pools in Rotorua were a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, creating a warm, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Possibly the best Rotorua Spa Pools!
It’s got a lovely tradition over the generations, so why not keep it going?
Secret Spot hot tubs Rotorua
If you’re after a secluded spot then this is it; the Secret Spa Rotorua!
I have two words for you: private pools!
Secret Spot Hot Tubs in Rotorua has the most peaceful and secluded setting right in the heart of the forest and is one of the the best day spas in Rotorua.
Tucked away in the forest, these private tubs provide a relaxing retreat with beautiful views of the night sky.
It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the warmth of the water, with the option to make your experience exxxtra with candles and drinks alongside your tub. Perfect for a tranquil relaxing spa.
Best Rotorua Spa Resorts
On the Point Rotorua
This ULTRA luxury retreat features private mineral pools in each room, allowing guests to soak in the mineral, rejuvenating waters in complete privacy. The tranquil surroundings and top-notch spa services ensure a truly relaxing stay.
Treetops Lodge & Estate
Tucked away within 2,500 acres of native Rotorua forest, Treetops Lodge & Estate has the ultimate serene escape. The on-site spa provides a range of treatments using natural products, promising a rejuvenating experience in the heart of nature.
Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort
Situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort has the most peaceful retreat with stunning lake views. The resort features luxurious accommodation, a range of spa treatments inspired by Maori traditions, and thermal pools for a relaxing soak.
About the Author
 | Hi, I’m Adriana! I’m constantly searching for the best places to travel to so you don’t have to! Think hidden gems but all over the world. That means I’m constantly on the road and exploring new places to visit and I have a love for photography, so it made sense to write travel guides on all the places I visit. I was born in Australia and lived in New Zealand, Poland, Dubai and England growing up and I decided to take my love of travel to the next level! Read more about me here and see my articles here. |
Car & Campervan Rental
It’s recommended that you either hire yourself, a camper van or a car, so you can explore North Island at your heart’s desire..
Depending on what time of year it can be really busy so it is worth looking at your stay well in advance. Bear in mind cost of hotels on your itinerary North Island New Zealand.
North Island Weather
Summer in NZ
Read more about the summer weather in NZ.
Temperature: In January, when it’s summer, the weather is warm on both North & South Island! The temperatures are around 23°C (73°F), while the South Island is a tad cooler, sitting at around 19°C (66°F).
But honestly, on some of the days it was BOILING in the summer, and reaching highs of 30°C (86°F) if not higher. Think, you’ll burn in 15 minutes outside without sun cream.
Rain: Both islands get about 8 rainy days, but you’ve got heaps of daylight to play with, around 15 hours a day. It’s like the sun just doesn’t wanna quit!
Winter in NZ
Read more about the winter weather in NZ.
Fast forward to June, when it’s winter in NZ. Things start cooling down a bit, especially in the South Island. You’re looking at around 11°C (52°F) down there, while the North Island is still a bit milder, hovering around 15°C (59°F).
It’s a bit wetter too, with around 14 rainy days, but, you still get some solid daylight, about 9 hours or so.
So, that’s the gist of it! Both Islands have their pros & cons but frankly, they’re both beautiful.
North Island Weather in January
- Average temperature: 23°C (73°F)
- Average rainy days: 8
- Average daylight hours: 15
- Average sunrise time: 6:15 AM
- Average sunset time: 9:30 PM
North Island Weather in February
- Average temperature: 25°C (77°F)
- Average rainy days: 7
- Average daylight hours: 14
- Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
- Average sunset time: 9:00 PM
North Island Weather in March
- Average temperature: 23°C (73°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 12
- Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
- Average sunset time: 8:15 PM
North Island Weather in April
- Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 11
- Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
- Average sunset time: 6:45 PM
North Island Weather in May
- Average temperature: 17°C (63°F)
- Average rainy days: 12
- Average daylight hours: 9
- Average sunrise time: 8:15 AM
- Average sunset time: 5:30 PM
North Island Weather in June
- Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
- Average rainy days: 14
- Average daylight hours: 9
- Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
- Average sunset time: 5:15 PM
North Island Weather in July
- Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
- Average rainy days: 15
- Average daylight hours: 9
- Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
- Average sunset time: 5:30 PM
North Island Weather in August
- Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
- Average rainy days: 15
- Average daylight hours: 10
- Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
- Average sunset time: 6:00 PM
North Island Weather in September
- Average temperature: 16°C (61°F)
- Average rainy days: 13
- Average daylight hours: 12
- Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
- Average sunset time: 6:30 PM
North Island Weather in October
- Average temperature: 18°C (64°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 13
- Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
- Average sunset time: 7:45 PM
North Island Weather in November
- Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 14
- Average sunrise time: 6:00 AM
- Average sunset time: 8:30 PM
North Island Weather in December
- Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 15
- Average sunrise time: 5:45 AM
- Average sunset time: 9:15 PM
Have a look at some of my other North Island articles:
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