Relaxation & wellness in Pāpāmoa
It’s easy to neglect our own wellness and self-care routines – fortunately Pāpāmoa has some beautiful ways to unwind and recharge. Check out some of our top picks for how you can recharge your batteries!
DO
Rake Healing is a unique activity to calm your mind. Led by local sand artist Kenrick Smith, these workshops use bamboo sticks and rakes to draw giant geometrical patterns on the beach. The repetitive actions allow your brain to switch off and just be mindful of that moment. Surf lessons are a great form of physical and mental exercise. Book your next lesson with Hakanini Surf School and learn a cool new skill for summer and revel in the frothing ocean waves. Retail therapy never goes amiss. Pāpāmoa Plaza and Fashion Island are the perfect place to treat yourself to some new summer outfits that will boost your mood. Filling your bellies with hand-picked berries is another lovely treat and way to spend time outdoors. Visit Black Stump Berries, Iona Boysenberry Orchard or Bell Road Berries.
WALK
A simple walk on the beach does wonders for your soul, and you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel after a stroll in the sand. The Pāpāmoa Reserve Walkways (Te Ara o Wairakei) is a jewel in Pāpāmoa that’s just waiting to be explored. This meandering network of wetlands and ponds are a great place to walk or cycle at any time of day. If you’re craving more of a challenge, head straight up Pāpāmoa Hills. Spend time at the top gazing at the view and appreciating the beauty of this place.
EAT
One of life’s great pleasures is eating fabulous food, and Pāpāmoa is blessed with outstanding eateries that you can indulge in over the summer holidays. Gather and Pearl Kitchen are great places to get your caffeine fix and a delicious bite to eat. Papa Mo’s and Lantern provide a lively atmosphere if you’re heading out for dinner. And if you haven’t tried Kneed The Sands yet, visit this gourmet bakery for delectable pastries and baked goods in Pāpāmoa’s newest town centre development.
RELAX
Indulge in a little ‘me time’ with some relaxing activities or gentle exercises classes. Zen Float Spa is the chance to let everyday stress melt away as you float effortlessly in warm Epsom salt water. The Sauna Project at Pāpāmoa Beach Domain will leave you with a sense of peace and calm unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Alternate between the 85˚C sauna and a cold ocean dip. Or try booking a yoga session at Mahana Yoga or a Pilates class at Reform Fitness. Moving your muscles and focusing on your breath will help you feel both soothed and strong.
MARKETS
Who doesn’t love a good outdoor market? Soak up the atmosphere, browse beautiful home-made products and devour some gourmet street food at Pāpāmoa Community Market, Dinner in the Domain or Little Big Markets. Spending time wandering around market stalls and seeing what catches your eye will distract you from the busyness of everyday life and provide a much-needed escape to improve your mental wellbeing.