Story: Thermal pools and spas

The Rotorua bathhouse

The Rotorua bathhouse

The Tudor-style Rotorua bathhouse, opened in 1908, was a symbol of the government’s ambition to create a great South Seas spa. It was designed to attract visitors from New Zealand and overseas. The imposing façade of the building was matched by a luxurious interior, furnished with marble sculptures, magnificent porcelain baths and plush couches. Outside there were beautifully kept gardens, a band rotunda, bowling and croquet greens, and tennis courts.

Using this item

Rotorua Museum of Art and History, Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa
Reference: OP-2489

Permission of Rotorua Museum of Art and History Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Nancy Swarbrick, 'Thermal pools and spas - Government spas', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/6461/the-rotorua-bathhouse (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Nancy Swarbrick, published 12 Jun 2006