Polynesian Spa facts for kids

Polynesian Spa is a special geothermal spa in Rotorua, North Island, New Zealand. It's famous for its warm, natural mineral pools that come from deep within the Earth. People have visited this place for a very long time because they believe the water can help them feel better and heal.

The Story of Polynesian Spa

Ancient Healing Waters

Long ago, the local Māori knew about the amazing powers of these waters. For hundreds of years, they bathed in a special acidic pool they called 'Te Pupunitanga'. Today, this pool is known as Priest’s Bath. The Māori believed the water had wonderful healing benefits.

Father Mahoney's Discovery

The story of European visitors to Polynesian Spa began in 1878. A Catholic priest named Father Mahoney started bathing regularly in the hot spring water. He used hand-dug pools right where Polynesian Spa is now, by the beautiful Lake Rotorua. Father Mahoney had arthritis, a condition that makes joints sore and stiff. After several months of bathing, his arthritis got much, much better! This amazing recovery helped the hot mineral spring water become famous around the world for its healing properties.

Early Bath Houses

As more people wanted to experience the healing waters, proper bath houses were built. The first one on this site was the Pavilion Bath House, which opened in 1882. Later, the Ward Baths opened in 1931. In the beginning, these bath houses were run by the government. Some of the baths were named after important people. For example, the Duchess Bath was named after the Duchess of Cornwall and York, who visited in 1901. The Ward Baths were named after Sir Joseph Ward, an early New Zealand Prime Minister who loved thermal waters.

Saint Mary MacKillop's Visit

In 1902, Mary MacKillop, also known as Saint Mary of the Cross, came to Rotorua. She hoped to find relief in the healing waters of the Duchess Bath. On March 16th, she wrote, "I feel the baths are doing me good. The rheumatism in my knees is becoming less and I can walk easily now..." Her experience showed how helpful these waters could be.

Polynesian Spa Today

The government continued to run the baths for many years. Then, in 1972, the government decided to lease the Ward Baths to a company called Polynesian Pools Limited. From that time on, the spa became known as the Polynesian Spa, the popular attraction it is today.