Aquaman Jason Momoa's secret NZ aquatic adventure 'pretty special'

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

The Wai Ariki Spa on the shores of Lake Rotorua is one of 13 completed Kiwi projects to be shortlisted for the prestigious World Architecture Festival.

Aquaman actor Jason Momoa has been making a splash at Rotorua’s luxury hot springs spa.

The actor visited Wai Ariki with his bandmates from heavy metal band Öof Tatatá, which has been touring New Zealand to play shows across the country.

With a show in Rotorua last weekend, the celebrity paid a visit to the high-end luxury hot pools and spa, which opened in June last year.

Jason Momoa visits Wai Ariki spa, pictured with Rotorua mayor Tania Tapsell and Wai Ariki general manager Debbie Robertson.

Wai Ariki General Manager Debbie Robertson said she was “chuffed” following Momoa’s second visit to the spa.

“Be it our local Rotorua whānau, or an A-list celebrity, we aim to create a real haven for people to relax and reset,” said Robertson.

“To have manuhiri return to Wai Ariki is amazing enough. But to have Aquaman himself come back for a soak in our restorative waters? That’s pretty special.

The luxury spa has views across Lake Rotorua.

“We’re extremely proud for our little corner of the world to be somewhere that people from as far as Hollywood can seek out to escape from the world for a little while.”

Wai Ariki is deeply rooted in traditional Māori values and the iwi-owned and operated complex prides itself on Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and hospitality.

“Our Ngāti Whakaue heritage is the foundation of everything that we do, and it’s a privilege to be able to share this throughout every aspect of our facility.”

The spa says Momoa took part in their signature Restorative Journey, a two-hour experience beginning with Te Iringa, a hot and cold waterfall experience, then the Tongariro Fire and Ice Caves. A series of geothermal pools follow, before the geothermal mud lounge. The final stage is the steam room, Kohu Wai Ariki.