Global campaign for iconic Rotorua spa resort

An international campaign has been launched to find buyers for a luxury cultural wellness resort business in New Zealand’s North Island tourist mecca of Rotorua.

The acclaimed Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort blends contemporary comfort with authentic Māori healing traditions. With 30 well-appointed guest rooms in an established 4.5-star operation, plus the award-winning Mokoia Restaurant, the world-class Wai Ora Day Spa, and conference/event facilities for up to 100 guests, the operation has a resilient, diversified business model.

Overlooking the shores of Lake Rotorua, the resort enjoys a peaceful setting close to Rotorua’s world-famous geothermal parks, Māori cultural attractions, and adventure activities, ensuring a steady flow of domestic and overseas guests throughout the year.

With Medium Density Residential zoning, the property offers genuine expansion potential, such as adding premium eco-villas, expanding and upgrading the conference hub, and enhancing spa offerings to capture more of the fast-growing wellness tourism market.

The resort has a rich history dating to the 1920s, when it was part of Rotorua’s renowned Redwood Estate. Owners over the years have included Major Hannah of the Hannah’s shoe store family, and the Holden family after whom the bays in front of the resort are named.

The property was eventually developed into the Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort, which opened in 2009. It has since won multiple accolades, including recognition in the World Luxury Spa Awards.

Now a magnet for international guests, wellness travellers, corporate groups, and high-net-worth individuals, the operation is up for sale as a freehold going concern. It is expected to command international buyer attention among hotel groups and lifestyle investors.

The land, buildings, business, and chattels behind Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort, at 77-79 Robinson Avenue, Rotorua, are being offered to buyers via an international tender closing on Thursday 16 July (unless sold prior).

The sale is being marketed by Owen Ding, James Chan and Damien Keenan of Bayleys Real Estate.

Ding said the site was underpinned by an expansive landholding of 8,976 square metres (approximately) across two freehold titles.

“Some 1,630 square metres of buildings include modern, well-maintained accommodation units with ensuite bathrooms; spa and therapy facilities including treatment rooms and changing areas; and supporting infrastructure such as laundry areas and staff utilities.

“Additional facilities include outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, a sauna, and landscaped gardens fronting the lake. Along with the versatile conference hub and fine-dining restaurant operation, this adds up to a well-equipped and multidimensional resort offering,” said Ding.

Chan, who heads Bayleys’ international sales division, said a rare blend of lakeside tranquillity, cultural depth, proven trading performance, and development potential made Wai Ora an outstanding investment opportunity for domestic or international buyers.

“For a domestic buyer, this is an iconic lifestyle business in a premier location. For an international investor, it provides immediate access to New Zealand’s thriving luxury tourism market with a high-performing, turnkey asset of exceptional reputation.

“A strong reputation for holistic wellness and warm hospitality has generated loyal repeat clientele and industry accolades. Key attributes include established online booking channels, a fully functioning food and beverage operation, and a business model enabling seamless continuation and immediate cashflow for new owners,” Chan said.

The resort is a short drive from the retail, dining, and tourism amenities of Rotorua’s city centre. Rotorua Airport is minutes away, ensuring ease of travel for domestic and international guests, and the city is well connected by road to major population centres including Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

Keenan, of Bayleys Rotorua, said nearby Whakarewarewa redwoods forest, a major drawcard for mountain biking, walking, and eco-tourism, along with Rotorua’s famed geothermal attractions, cultural experiences, and established conference and events market underpinned strong year-round visitor demand.

“Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort’s diverse attractions and guest profile position it perfectly to capitalise on this.

“Its all-season operating performance also aligns well with Tourism New Zealand’s strategy to spread demand across the calendar and generate more in off-peak months.

“The resort’s growth potential stands to gain further support from a New Zealand tourism sector that has been on a growth trajectory, approaching pre-pandemic levels of international travel, with annual visitor spending forecast to reach NZ$15-17 billion by 2027,” Keenan said.