A planned $58 million redevelopment for the long-troubled Waiwera hot springs is anticipated to open by mid-2028, with the revival project granted resource consent.
The project, led by Waiwera Thermal Springs Property Limited, is looking to turn the famous site 40 kilometres north of Auckland's CBD into a "world-class bathing and wellness sanctuary".
Once New Zealand's biggest water park, the pools sat abandoned for years after being closed in 2018 after years of neglect. It was torn down in 2023 after planned renovations stalled, and its operating companies went into liquidation.
In November last year, plans were unveiled to restore the geothermal attraction as a bathing and wellness destination featuring 28 pools and wellness experiences such as saunas, reflexology, gardens, walks, and pavilions.
Waiwera Thermal Springs Property Limited said this morning the project had been granted resource consent from Auckland Council, with construction expected to begin in early 2027. Its opening was anticipated by mid-2028 at a cost of $58 million.
“Achieving resource consent and reaching the detailed design stage of this project are significant milestones and we are absolutely delighted,” Brandon Batagol, joint managing director of Waiwera Thermal Springs, said.
“The progress reflects the commitment and quality of our team to deliver a new landmark attraction for the long term and generate sustainable benefit to the region."
Fellow joint manager Craig Mitchell said focus would now turn to securing a final portion of private investment and completing a detailed design.
"From there we’ll commence construction, keeping the community closely informed throughout the process. This is a carefully considered restoration of a place that matters to Aucklanders and of the relationship between people and the water that has drawn them here for generations.”
Waiwera Thermal Springs said an assessment found the development had potential to bring more than 310,000 visitors annually to the region.
It also said the facility would support around 90 direct and indirect jobs and contribute up to $300 million in gross regional product over its first seven years.
“Our vision is for Waiwera to be a place of genuine restoration, where the pace is slower, and connection comes easily," Mitchell said.
"We’ve made fantastic progress towards this in recent months, including resolving the guest journey and moving the project from a concept to a clear, considered design, and we look forward to sharing more announcements as we commence construction."
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