native New Zealand flora – each with their own price points (see p78). Each pool has a different therapeutic value, ranging in tem- perature between 38-40˚C and either fed by the Rachel Spring with its alkaline water for smooth, hydrated skin, or the Priest Spring with its more acidic waters that relieves tired muscles, arthritis and rheumatism – results of which are purely anecdotal rather than scientifically based. Tere’s a separate family area with the spa’s only freshwater, chlorin- ated pool for active children. Maintaining mineral baths has its opera-


tional challenges, too. “Te sulphur [water] leads to heavy deterioration and over the years, we’ve learned what does and doesn’t work,” Lobb says. “For example, we’ve given up using pool paint in favour of natural rock, and instead of galvanised nails, we’ve found that stainless steel is more durable.” Although saddled with higher-than-aver-


age maintenance costs, Lobb actually spends more on his staff contingent of 80. But both sides of the business are time consuming. “Essentially, we run a 24-hour operation,”


SPA BUSINESS 1 2012 ©Cybertrek 2012


Te 38-40˚C pools, have either alkaline or acidic waters offering numerous therapeutic benefits


A fashionable health resort in the late 1800s, Rotorua is remarkably underdeveloped in the modern context of a spa resort, apart from the Polynesian Spa


Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 77


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