Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa — Celebrating Heritage, Fostering Community, Crafted with Distinction

Situated along the tranquil shores of Lake Rotorua, Ariki Hot Springs & Spa emerges as a sanctuary of luxury and a poignant celebration of cultural heritage. Developed by the Pukeroa Oruawhata Group over five years, this visionary spa is not merely a structure but a testament to Ngāti Whakaue's enduring legacy and commitment to community upliftment.

The collaborative journey, steered by Ngati Whakaue, dedicated design visionaries, and the Pukeroa Oruawhata Group, underscores the cultural significance of Wai Ariki. This project stands as the first and only Māori-owned, developed, and predominantly Māori-staffed wellness centre, symbolizing cultural pride and fostering employment within the community.

Wai Ariki's architectural brilliance seamlessly intertwines tradition and modernity, paying homage to Ngāti Whakaue's cultural heritage. Guarded by six statues of Ngāti Whakaue tipuna, the facility welcomes visitors with a blessing stone from Mount Tarawera, offering a cultural embrace to all who enter.

Dimond Roofing’s® DD400 profile in Colorcote.9 Alumiguard Plus graces this cultural gem, not just as a protective covering but as a pivotal design element mirroring the seamless connection between tradition and the contemporary vision of the spa. The DD400 profile adds a touch of sophistication to the structure with its broad angular ribs and wide pans, making it the ultimate bold statement in roofs.

Designed to withstand the harshest conditions, Colorcote.9 Alumiguard Plus was chosen as the coil of choice when it came to roll forming the DD400 profile - the epitome of durability and resilience. Its suitability for use in 'very severe' marine environments, right up to the waterline, and resistance to chemical or acidic exposure make it the ideal choice for a project of this magnitude.

One of the standout features of Alumiguard Plus is its use of marine-grade aluminium alloy – the same material used in boat building. This not only speaks to the product's exceptional quality but also underscores its reliability in exposed or coastal sites. The durable baked-on paint system, comprising an acrylic or polyester top coat baked on a polyester primer, ensures resistance to UV damage, excellent gloss, and colour retention, making it a perfect match for the demanding requirements of the Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa.

The economic impact of Wai Ariki on the Rotorua community is profound, with an estimated annual contribution in the millions. Beyond financial gains, the project brought employment opportunities, engaging approximately 180 individuals during the construction phase. The decision to predominantly hire Ngāti Whakaue, Te Arawa, and Māori staff aligns with the vision of providing an authentic cultural experience, enriching the community and fostering a sense of belonging.

Pukeroa Oruawhata Group and roofing installers T H Commercial played pivotal roles in shaping Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Their expertise not only ensured the structural integrity of the facility but also contributed to the realization of a cultural vision that stands tall as a beacon of pride for Ngāti Whakaue and the broader Rotorua community.

As Wai Ariki prepares to open its doors, it does so not just as a luxury destination but as a transformative force, intertwining tradition, community enrichment, and architectural excellence. The cultural significance of this spa resonates not only in its architectural details but also in the positive impact it has brought to the community, ensuring a legacy for generations to come.