A thermal wellness resort using glacial waters – and powered by solar energy – is scheduled to open in Methven, New Zealand, in January 2021.

Called Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa, the destination will include a collection of pools differing in temperature as well as an adults-only section. This area will include a combination of larger communal hot pools, secluded private pools, a pool bar and exclusive private cabanas for premium treatment and hot pool packages.

Adult exclusive pools will enjoy premier views, water jet massages, bubble therapy, sauna therapies, cold plunge pool and a luxury relaxation area.

The spa will include five multifunctional treatment rooms, including two for couples and a relaxation lounge to complete the treatment area.

With the strapline ‘sourced from the mountains, powered by the sun’, the project is being designed to deliver a sustainable hot pools and spa experience set against a mountain backdrop.

Developed by Methven Adventures, the wellness tourism project will cater to a broad spectrum of travellers and local guests, from families to luxury consumers.

Spa and wellness consultants Spa Vision and Spa Guru Consulting have been selected as spa consultants for Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa.

Spa Vision director Neil Owen has been involved in a variety of elements of the planning and design phase, the project has required a turn-key approach from the outset which has seen Owen collaborate closely with Kirien Withers, director of Spa Guru Consulting.

Owen said: “Opuke is a truly exciting and extraordinary project for many reasons. It gives us the opportunity to showcase our comprehensive approach, as well as our collective expertise and understanding in the spa and wellness space.

“Our collaborative approach with Spa Guru Consulting is of great benefit to the client, and enables us to combine our efforts to ensure the absolute success and efficiency of the project.

“Kirien has already worked in New Zealand with hot springs in the past and we also have extensive experience of working with thermal spas in Europe, so together this is the perfect project to team up on.”

Withers said: “Opuke brings together a number of key principles which are increasingly important in the wellness space – from sustainability to inclusivity. The vision is one of excellence, but also vitally about offering a range of experiences for different guests groups.”

In addition, Owen has also worked alongside product-house Kurland which has designed and supplied a custom Rasul and Soft-Pack-System experience.