A heartening initiative that blends spirituality, tourism, and wellbeing, Rotorua is set to host its first-ever Wellness Week from Sunday, May 11 to Sunday, May 18, based at the newly refurbished Hindu Heritage Centre.
The event, a collaborative effort between local tourism platform Look After Me and the Hindu Heritage Centre, is designed to offer a range of self-care practices and wellness experiences to suit different lifestyles and budgets. From yoga and meditation to sound healing, addiction support, and community connection, the week-long celebration aims to foster holistic wellbeing within an inclusive and faith-friendly space.
“We’re creating an inclusive space for people to discover wellness practices that suit their lifestyle, budget and values,” said Dr Julia Anne, an award-winning scientist turned entrepreneur and the lead organiser of the event. “Whether you're new to self-care or looking to deepen your practice, there's something here for everyone.”
The event officially opens on Mother’s Day, May 11 at 9 am, and will run daily until May 18, closing at 4 pm. Participants can choose from a wide range of free, koha-based, or ticketed sessions across the city, all anchored at the Hindu Heritage Centre—now reimagined as a vibrant hub for wellness.
A rich programme awaits attendees, featuring:
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Daily yoga, breathwork and meditation sessions led by a respected lineup of teachers including Nilamani Wright, Amy Jozwiak, Susannah Engle, Sam Reid, Carrie Hazelton, Ma Kalaadevi Ananda, Barbara Hock, and Kavitha Magesan.
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Massage and therapies, in partnership with Secret Spot, Polynesian Spa, Wai Ariki Spa, and therapists like Trish Jackson.
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A bustling Wellness Market with natural health products, nutraceuticals, detox remedies, mirimiri, Rongoā Māori, and homeopathy from NZ Natural Formulas.
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Talks and workshops addressing addiction support, including sessions with James Dear and the Break Free programme.
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Healing experiences such as ecstatic dance with DJ Wicks (Jarrod Anderson), kirtan and chanting led by Philip Chen, Carrie Hazelton, JJ, James Dear and members of the Mantra Band.
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Special focus on senior wellbeing, with 'Steady As You Go' mobility classes run in collaboration with Age Concern Rotorua.
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Men’s and Women’s Circles for safe, gender-specific sharing and personal growth.
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Opportunities for volunteering, allowing locals and visitors to exchange their time for wellness experiences by assisting with ushering, hospitality, and event logistics.
Dr Julia Anne emphasised the importance of collaboration in making the event possible: “This event showcases the power of community, shared effort, and conscious living. It’s also a celebration of what’s possible when tourism, spirituality and wellbeing intersect in a safe, faith-friendly space.”
Adding to the local flavour, attendees will be offered complimentary morning and afternoon teas prepared by Julia Anne and the Look After Me hospitality team. Many of the refreshments will include produce freshly harvested from the Hindu Heritage Centre’s community garden—underscoring the event's focus on sustainability and connection to land.
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, shared his enthusiasm about the Centre’s evolving role: “The Hindu Heritage Centre has always been a place of connection and service, supporting a wide range of community groups—from Age Concern Rotorua to yoga schools, meditation classes to dance classes, and the Rotorua Multicultural Council. It’s a natural and exciting evolution to see the Centre becoming a vibrant hub for wellness and holistic wellbeing in Rotorua.”
With its thoughtfully curated mix of spirituality, science, and community, Rotorua’s Wellness Week promises to offer something for everyone—from the curious first-timer to the committed wellness enthusiast.
For the full programme, ticketing, stallholder or volunteering enquiries, please email julia@lookafterme.co.nz or follow Look After Me on Facebook.
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