Remix R&R: A weekend at Polynesian Spa

Remix editor Steven Fernandez visits Rotorua’s gorgeous Polynesian Spa for a weekend of rest and relaxation.

I’ve been meaning to visit Polynesian Spa in Rotorua for some time, not only because I’ve been hanging out for a weekend getaway, but because my friends are always telling me about how beautiful it is.

Departing Auckland late on a Saturday morning with a friend in tow, we arrived in Rotorua mid-afternoon, with plenty of time to browse the treatment menu at Polynesian Spa.

First up was Polynesian Spa’s signature Mud wrap, a full body polish exfoliation and mud mask, which finished with a relaxing scalp massage. The best part? The joint rooms meant I could share this luxury experience with my friend, which wasn’t as intrusive as you would think due to the private change areas. I assumed my skin would feel amazing straight after the treatment, but I was surprised at how clean and soft it felt through the next and into the next morning.

Our Sunday morning started with a lazy soak in the mineral hot pools, followed by an Aromatherapy Associates De-stress Muscle Massage, and the Sugar Lime Revive.

The first is a restorative Swedish full body massage, which works into tense, aching muscles, using an active blend of essential oils rosemary, ginger and lavender. The Sugar Lime Revive then applies a full body Veritè Organic Coconut and Lime Blossom Body Polish, and Maychang and Geranium Body Butter, before a 30-minute mini-facial (cleanse, exfoliation, massage and moisturiser).

Despite my concerns that back-to-back treatments would have me restless, a short break in the middle to wash off the sugar lime polish meant I could stretch out my legs. Afterwards, I would have happily returned to the bed for a few more hours!

The highlight of my weekend at Polynesian Spa was the fact that it was out of Auckland. Getting away from the hustle and bustle meant I could fully relax and enriched my luxury experience. Treatments aside, relaxing in the mineral pools enjoying the view was the best way to properly unwind. I’ll definitely be back, and hopefully sooner rather than later.

The idyllic mineral pools at Rotorua's Polynesian Spa