Auckland, a city renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and health-conscious community, offers numerous facilities for those looking to experience the benefits of saunas and cold plunges/ice baths. In this blog post, we’ll compare some of the top spots in the city: Hana, The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge, Wyld Chiropractic, O Studio, and Sauna Collective. Each of these places has unique offerings and ambiance, so let’s dive into their pros and cons to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you. Let’s have a look at some of the best places to sauna in Auckland:
1. Hana
Overview: Hana is a luxury wellness studio offering a range of services, including private infrared sauna rooms, private contrast therapy rooms, massage, and red light therapy. Hana operates two studios: Hana Parnell and Hana Ponsonby.
Price Overview: – $$$$
- Sauna: $70 per session
- Ice bath: Only available with sauna
- Sauna & Ice bath: $110 per session
- Memberships and Passes available: Yes
Pros:
- Modern Facilities: Hana is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, providing a luxurious experience with high-quality infrared saunas and cold plunge pools in private rooms.
- Privacy: Premium private rooms for a relaxing session alone or with a partner/friend for an extra fee.
- Holistic Treatments: Offers additional services like PBM light therapy and massage, and a curated range of wellness products.
- Atmosphere: The serene and calming environment enhances the overall experience.
Cons:
- Cost: The premium experience comes with a premium price tag, with sessions costing at least $70 for sauna and $110 for sauna and ice bath.
- Private Rooms Only: This might be a pro for some and a con for others. The private spaces allow for a relaxing session but limit the social aspect.
2. The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge
Overview: The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge is Auckland’s first studio specializing in ice bathing, contrast hydrotherapy, and traditional sauna with an emphasis on the social elements of European sauna and ice bathing culture. The studio is beginner-friendly, with all staff trained in contrast therapy coaching.
Price Overview – $
- Sauna: $20 per session (1 hour)
- Ice bath: $19.90 per session
- Sauna & Ice bath: $29.90 for your first booking (1 hour)
- Memberships and Passes available: Yes
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: A mission to make regular cold water immersion therapy and contrast therapy accessible to all.
- Community Focus: Emphasizes building a community and integrating the social elements of European sauna and ice bathing culture.
- Trained Staff: All sessions have trained ice bath and contrast therapy coaches available to ensure you feel supported.
- Wood-Fired Sauna: The traditional wood-fired sauna is heated to 80-100 degrees, proven to be the most beneficial temperature range.
Cons:
- Specialized Focus: While excellent for cold plunges and saunas, it might not offer as wide a range of services as some other studios.
- Community Sauna and Ice Bath Areas: No private rooms or cabins are available for sessions, focusing on a communal experience.
3. Wyld Chiropractic
Overview: Wylde Chiropractic is a chiropractic and wellness studio with locations in Newmarket and Ponsonby. The clinic also offers private infrared sauna and ice bath suites that can be booked for up to four people.
Price Overview – $$$
- Sauna: $56 per session
- Ice bath: Only available with sauna
- Sauna & Ice bath: $70 per session
- Memberships and Passes available: Yes
Pros:
- Comprehensive Care: Integrates chiropractic care with sauna and cold plunge therapy, offering a unique combination of services for holistic health.
- Expert Practitioners: Experienced chiropractors provide specialized care and advice.
- Private Rooms: Infrared saunas and cold plunges are available to rent in private rooms.
Cons:
- Cost: The premium experience comes with a premium price tag, with sessions costing at least $56 for sauna and $70 for sauna and ice bath.
- Private Suites Only: This might be a pro for some and a con for others. The private spaces allow for a relaxing session but limit the social aspect.
4. The Sauna Project
Overview: The Sauna Project is a mobile traditional wood-fired sauna operator with multiple locations across New Zealand. In Auckland, it operates at The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge in Mt. Albert and offers sauna beach sessions at Eastern Beach.
Price Overview – $
- Sauna: $20 per session (1 hour)
- Ice bath: $19.90 (available at their partner location, The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge)
- Sauna & Ice bath: $29.90 for your first session ($40 for 1-hour session after)
- Memberships and Passes available: Yes
Pros:
- Purpose-Driven and Affordable: Focused on providing a high-quality and authentic experience at an affordable price.
- Guided Sessions: Sessions are guided by experienced contrast therapy coaches who provide expert advice and support.
- Traditional European Sauna Culture: Emphasizes an authentic European sauna experience with traditional ‘Aufguss,’ quality essential oils, towel waving, and social elements.
Cons:
- Popular Sessions: Due to its popularity and limited number of sessions, slots book out quickly.
5. O Studio
Overview: O Studio is a modern wellness center offering a range of services, including private infrared sauna and cold plunge suites, private float suites, a traditional community sauna and ice bath area, and massages. O Studio has recently opened its first Auckland location in Takapuna and has another location planned for Remuera.
Price Overview – $$$
- Sauna: $70 per session (private suite)
- Ice bath: Only available with sauna
- Sauna & Ice bath: $35 per session
- Memberships and Passes available: Yes
Pros:
- Variety of Services: Offers a comprehensive wellness experience with services like float therapy, infrared sauna, traditional sauna, and ice baths in addition to massage services.
- Holistic Approach: The integration of different wellness practices helps in achieving a balanced mind and body connection.
- Community & Private Suites: Strikes the balance between private suite offerings and community spaces, ensuring a better price range.
Cons:
- Price: The extensive range of services can make it a bit pricey compared to more specialized studios.
6. Sauna Collective
Price Overview – $$
- Sauna: Minimum $25 per session (45 minutes)
- Ice bath: Not available
- Sauna & Ice bath: Depends on location
- Memberships and Passes available: No
Pros:
- Multiple Auckland Beach Locations: Mobile beach sauna operating at various locations, mostly on Auckland’s North Shore.
- Community Events: Regularly hosts community events and workshops, fostering a sense of belonging and shared learning.
Cons:
- Limited Cold Plunge Options: While excellent for sauna enthusiasts, the cold plunge facilities might not be as comprehensive as in other places.
Conclusion
Choosing the best place for sauna and cold plunge/ice bath therapy in Auckland depends on your specific needs and preferences. Wylde Chiropractic, O Studio, and Hana offer luxurious, comprehensive wellness experiences but come at a higher price. The Cold Plunge Co. Recovery Lounge is perfect for those seeking a cost-effective, community-focused, expert-driven environment that allows for making sauna and ice baths a regular routine. The Sauna Collective is ideal for sauna enthusiasts on the North Shore looking for a changing scenery with their sauna routine.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on what you value most in your wellness journey. Whether it’s the sense of community, the range of services, or the most cost-effective solution, Auckland has a place that can meet your needs.
