Key Takeaways:
- A $50 million development plan has been revealed to revive Waiwera Thermal Springs, a geothermal attraction that has been closed since 2018.
- The redevelopment plan includes 28 pools and wellness experiences, such as saunas, reflexology, gardens, walks, and pavilions.
- The project aims to restore the site to a world-class bathing and wellness destination, attracting over 310,000 visitors and generating $300 million in its first five years.
- Ngāti Manuhuri, the local iwi, are development partners on the project and have guided the vision from the start.
- The project has received endorsement from Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, who believes it will bring social and economic benefits to the region.
Introduction to the Project
The Waiwera Thermal Springs, a geothermal attraction that has been a part of New Zealand’s history since the 1800s, is set to be revived with a $50 million development plan. The site, which has been closed since 2018, will undergo a significant transformation to restore it to a world-class bathing and wellness destination. The redevelopment plan, led by Waiwera Thermal Springs Property LP, includes 28 pools and wellness experiences such as saunas, reflexology, gardens, walks, and pavilions. The project aims to reconnect visitors with the area’s geothermal heritage and native landscape, while also providing social and economic benefits to the region.
The Vision and Design
The vision for the new Waiwera Thermal Springs is to create a place of genuine replenishment where wellness grows from nature. The design of the project has taken into account the need to honor the environment while bringing benefits to the region. The redevelopment plan includes a range of features, such as geothermal pools, saunas, and reflexology, that will provide visitors with a unique and relaxing experience. The project also includes gardens, walks, and pavilions, which will allow visitors to connect with the native landscape and appreciate the area’s natural beauty. The design of the project has been guided by the local iwi, Ngāti Manuhuri, who have a deep ancestral connection to the land and geothermal waters.
Partnership with Ngāti Manuhuri
The partnership between Waiwera Thermal Springs Property LP and Ngāti Manuhuri is a key aspect of the project. The iwi has guided the vision from the start, and their relationship with the land and geothermal waters has been instrumental in shaping the design of the project. The developers recognize the land and water as part of a living whakapapa, and have taken steps to ensure that the project is culturally sensitive and respectful of the iwi’s ancestral connections. The partnership is an example of how collaboration and cooperation can lead to positive outcomes for both parties, and demonstrates a commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region.
Economic Benefits
The redevelopment of Waiwera Thermal Springs is expected to have significant economic benefits for the region. The project is expected to attract over 310,000 visitors in its first five years, generating around $300 million in revenue. The project will also create jobs and stimulate local economic growth, which will have a positive impact on the community. The endorsement of the project by Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown is a testament to the potential of the project to bring social and economic benefits to the region. The mayor believes that the project will complement the existing attractions in the region, and provide a unique and valuable experience for visitors.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The redevelopment of Waiwera Thermal Springs is an exciting project that has the potential to bring significant benefits to the region. The project’s focus on wellness, culture, and environmental sustainability makes it a unique and valuable addition to the region’s tourism offerings. The partnership between Waiwera Thermal Springs Property LP and Ngāti Manuhuri is a key aspect of the project, and demonstrates a commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region. The next step for the project is the lodging of the resource consent with Auckland Council, which is expected to take place on December 1. The developers are looking forward to progressing the consent process and reopening the mineral-rich hot pools to the public, providing a unique and relaxing experience for visitors.