Tahuna Waiariki

Tahuna Wairiki is a thermal baths located in Queenstown, New Zealand. Set on an elevated site and positioned between mountains and lake, the baths have stunning views across Whakatipu Waimāori (Lake Wakatipu). The project brief was to design thermal baths that provided a truly unique New Zealand bathing experience. The proposal looks to form a regenerative system and enhance the site biodersity. The site will be returned to how it was prior to being clear felled for farming by Europeans settlers. The site would once again become a native podocarp Kahere (forest). A place of regeneration. Externally there are five large communal outdoor pools set amongst the forest, each offering differing temperatures and water experiences, along with ten private pools for exclusive use. Two main circular buildings wrap around existing trees creating internalised spaces that provide the entrance, retail, food and beverage, change rooms and private spa facilities. Pure carved stone bowls, not unlike traditional Māori Kumete (carved vessels) sit within the forest and create the pools. Visually elevated elliptical discs, containing pure water are displayed as Taonga (of high value). Curved protective earthern structures with slatted timber screening, shelter occupants and provide privacy. These forms are designed to be of the land, emerging from it. The landscape is carved to create ha-ha walls, providing a buffer around the site. The aspiration was to create a holistic sensorial and regenerative experience, merging water, land and forest.