Domain House in the Te Aroha Domain is undergoing much-needed repairs and maintenance to prepare it for commercial use again. Constructed in 1908, the Edwardian landmark is receiving some re-piling, having air conditioning installed and the veranda repaired to improve access and bring it up to standard.

The building, which has been under-utilised for several years, will initially be leased by Te Aroha Mineral Spas to house the popular beauty and massage arm of the business, which currently operates out of a single room in the spas building on the site of the original No.1 Bath House.

Tourism Manager Aimee Davies, who has managed the Te Aroha Mineral Spas for almost a decade, said the demand for the mineral spas and the beauty services has far outstripped supply for years and she can’t wait to restore and revitalise the former Tea House, popular with spa seekers in the early 1900s. Te Aroha is rising in popularity with tourists once again with customers travelling from Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton and beyond to soak in the mineral waters or be treated by Te Aroha Mineral Spa’s skilled beauty therapists. “Customers are wanting to book our spas or beauty treatments but we’re often fully booked two weeks in advance,” she said. “We’ve had to turn hundreds of people (and revenue) away, so having this extra space will definitely help.”

Although the physical structure of the heritage building will not change, additional internal walls will be built to create two one-bed treatment rooms, a two-bed treatment room, a waiting room and reception area, a manicure and pedicure room, bathroom and staff area with kitchen out the back. “Not only will we be able to free up another spa in the Te Aroha Mineral Spas building to help meet demand there, at Domain House we’ll be able to treat multiple beauty customers at a time, including couples’ massage and group pamper bookings,” said Aimee. While some of the décor will be refreshed, complementing the nature of the building, the pressed copper ceiling will become a focal point in the reception area. “It’s going to be a beautiful space”.

Aimee said the refurbishment will mean locals, visitors and tourists will have another option to appreciate the picturesque Te Aroha Domain. “After being treated in the stunning Domain House with its phenomenal elevated views, our customers will be able to enjoy the Swim Zone heated pools, the recently refurbished No.2 bathhouse, Te Aroha Mineral Spas, the Te Aroha Museum, i-SITE, Domain Art Gallery and Domain Cottage Café, which are all a short stroll away”.

Investigations are still underway for the new day spa facility for Te Aroha, approved in the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan. The projected low-cost expansion of Te Aroha Mineral Spas into Domain House will help meet demand in the interim. All going well, beauty and massage services will be available from Domain House from October 2021.