Destination beauty: The Sanctuary Day Spa

One of the most fabulous places to stay in Auckland is Mollies Boutique Hotel in Herne Bay, and whenever I have friends coming from overseas that like things a little more on the luxe side I recommend it as a stellar place to lay your head.
I was lucky enough to spend a night at Mollies myself recently as part of their deliciously named Winter Spa Escape package*, and have to say that Auckland’s only Relais & Chateaux Hotel definitely did itself proud when it came to an amazing property, incredible food and exceptional service. New owners acquired Mollies early in 2011 and the winds of change have definitely swept through its elegant corridors, making for one very special place to stay.
Both the hotel and its day spa, Sanctuary have a new sparkle in their eye, and it’s brilliant to see the spa transformed into a serious player on the local landscape. From the minute you step into its otherwordly atmosphere you know you’re somewhere rather special, and on a cold Saturday afternoon it was the best place I could be. The Sanctuary Day Spa offers treatments like facials, hot stone massage, manicures, pedicures, scrubs, waxing, tandem treatments, make-up, tanning and more, but I was there for what was to be an incredible massage. My therapist Sharon Moriarty described it as a “ritual” treatment, and for a blissful two hours I experienced soothing massage, breathing techniques, reflexology and aromatherapy, making for legs like jelly when it was time to leave! Thankfully it was only a one-minute shuffle to my room where I had a glass of champagne and an open fire waiting – magnificent stuff.
I definitely recommend a trip to Mollies Boutique Hotel when you’re in Auckland, and for those of us who live here, it’s the perfect spot for a Staycation at any time of year. And next time you’re shopping around for a spa then definitely add Sanctuary Day Spa to your list – with therapists like Sharon and a lineup of beauty partners like Dermalogica, St Tropez, Bella Vi makeup and Tisserand massage oils on board you definitely won’t be disappointed.

*Mollies Winter Spa Escape Package for two people includes Suite style accommodation for one night, a five course degustation dinner with matching wines for two, a one hour Tandem Massage, Gourmet breakfast for two served either in the privacy of your suite or on the terrace and a complimentary late checkout of 12pm. Costing $1000.00 + GST for two, the offer is valid until 31st August 2011 and is available to NZ and Australian Residents only - proof of residency will be required on check-in. Email reservations@mollies.co.nz or +64-9-376 3489 to book.