The Ultimate NZ Relaxation Guide
Wow, the past few months have been a bit crazy! As we head into the warmer months and out of lockdown restrictions, we’re all in need of a relaxing holiday to recenter, recharge, and prepare for the silly season that will soon be here. Before you start treating everyone else this Christmas, you should plan a treat for yourself – and what’s more indulgent than a relaxation getaway with a special someone, your friends, or even the whole family!
Pack your bags and get ready to dive into some of the best relaxation activities New Zealand has to offer. From Rotorua to Queenstown, we have you sorted! We’ve gathered our top take-it-easy activity recommendations around the country so there’s no stress when you’re trying to decide what to do on your holiday.
Find peace at the Polynesian Spa
📍 Rotorua
Recline in 38°c – 41°c geothermal mineral water at the Polynesian Spa. The Pavilion Pools offer guests a range of acidic and alkaline pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. If you’re in the mood for an upgrade, the Deluxe Lake Spa is right on the waterfront with geothermally heated recliners and a cold plunge pool in addition to five mineral hot pools. For those after a more private experience, the Polynesian Spa also have sky view and lake view private pools at the divine temperature of 38.5°c. Want an experience for the little ones? The Rotorua Swimming Pool has a large supervised pool and hydro slide while mum and dad enjoy two 40°c alkaline mineral hot pools.
If you’re seeking an even more luxurious experience, the Polynesian Spa’s Retreat Day Spa provides all the indulgent spa treatments you can dream of. Facial, massage, mud wrap, or body treatment – we recommend trying them all with a spa package!
Find out more about the Polynesian Spa.
After you’ve relaxed and rejuvenated at the Polynesian Spa, come and stay with us at the VR Rotorua Lake Resort. On the banks of Lake Rotoiti, our fantastic hospitality will have you feeling even more at ease!
Be our guest at VR Rotorua Lake Resort
Discover unique art at the Lava Glass gallery
📍 Taupō
Explore your creativity at the Lava Glass – a truly unique gallery whose handcrafted work is collected by art enthusiasts all over the world. Every piece at Lava Glass has been handcrafted so they all have individual variations that make each one special. Take a tour of the glassblowing studio and see the master glass artist, Lynden Over, and the other resident artists working to create these awe-inspiring pieces. Take a stroll in the sculpture garden and watch the sun reflect off the glass sculptures, then enjoy some great food and coffee at the Lava Glass Café.
Check out the incredible art for yourself!
While you’re exploring Taupō, check in at the Silver Fern Lodge – our top-tier but affordable hotel in the centre of Taupō. With complimentary breakfasts included in your stay, you’ll have everything you need!
Book your Taupō stay at the Silver Fern Lodge
Indulge your taste buds at Greystone Wines
📍 Hanmer Springs & Hurunui
Just an hour away from Hanmer Springs lies the stunning Greystone Wines. Located in the Waipara, you can spend the day wine tasting at the cellar door, indulging in their decadent four-course set menu, and taking the walking and cycling trail through the vineyard! Greystone is 100% BioGro organic and has had an intriguing journey to this impressive milestone.
Take a look at Greystone for yourself!
During your time in Hanmer Springs, why not say hello at our luxury lodge-style accommodation, Hanmer Springs Retreat. With a backdrop of the mighty Amuri Ranges and the Five Stags Restaurant at your doorstep, you won’t want to leave!
Relax with us at Hanmer Springs Retreat!
Drift into tranquillity at Onsen
📍 Queenstown
Last but not least, you can’t have a relaxing trip to Queenstown without indulging at the Onsen hot pools! Recently winning the 2019 World Luxury Spa Awards, this luxury experience isn’t one to miss. Each private pool is made from high-quality cedarwood and looks over the Shotover River and incredible mountain ranges. Will you choose one of the traditional round hot pools or one of the new oval hot pools for two? After your soak, indulge yourself in a tranquil face or body spa treatment at the on-site day spa with an array of massages and facials to have you feeling your best.
Find out more about Onsen.
Where are you staying on your relaxation vacay in Queenstown? Here at VR, we have four excellent properties to suit every need and budget! Take a look for yourself.