Wai Ariki’s Māori-inspired architecture wins prestigious award

We are incredibly proud of the multi-award-winning venue Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, which has received yet another award for its Commercial Architecture at the 2024 Waikato & Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards.

The recognition of esteemed architects, RCG, for their outstanding work has contributed to the success of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, a jewel in our portfolio of incredible venues.

Te Kāhui Whaihanga, the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), celebrate the best of New Zealand architecture and said, “The winners of this year’s best architecture in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty run the gamut of design.”

The judges’ remarks resonate deeply with our vision for Wai Ariki. They described the venue as “incredible,” noting its seamless integration of history and being locally informed. Every aspect of the building tells a story, creating a profound sense of connection to the place it inhabits.

Wai Ariki is grounded in te ao Māori (Māori worldview) and Ngāti Whakaue healing practices. This unique spa and wellness experience offers authentic manaakitanga, the centuries-old and internationally renowned concept of welcoming and caring for manuhiri (visitors).

Debbie Robertson, General Manager at Wai Ariki emphasised the significance of a culturally, architecturally, experiential and beautiful space that pays homage to our tūpuna (ancestors).

“Wai Ariki is inspired and owned by local iwi, Ngāti Whakaue and features two main spa areas, the Wai Whakaora (Restorative Journey) and the exclusive Āhuru Mōwai (The Sanctuary). Both are places of peace and tranquillity founded on te ao Māori values, traditions and culture and are unique not only in Aotearoa, New Zealand but around the world.”

“We are immensely proud of Wai Ariki’s success and its continued impact on our community. We extend our gratitude to the Waikato & Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards for their recognition of Wai Ariki. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of everyone involved,” Debbie concluded.

Discover the magic of Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa and reserve your experience via the website.

• Explore our career opportunities.
• Learn more about our people.