Beauty destination: Auckland's new SO/ SPA

I’m a huge fan of taking time out for a little pampering every so often, and a little self care on the regular. For me this involves the likes of meditation and quiet time, as well as regular massage and reflexology sessions when I can afford it. The feeling of wellbeing I get when I indulge in the latter is beyond belief, and I love finding beautiful new venues to hit up when I’m in need.

Which brings me to the newest Auckland spa that I have been lucky enough to visit, which calls itself “the answer to your beauty, wellness and relaxation prayers”. Called SO/ SPA, it is the indulgent spa offering from Auckland’s latest boutique hotel, SO/ Auckland in downtown Auckland.

The menu is vast and unique, which I always appreciate. Rather than just the usual Swedish massage the treatment menu includes innovative offerings like Himalayan detox therapy, Tibetan sound healing, chakra balancing and peeling Chlorella masks. Recognising that the spa experience is not a one-size-fits-all model, SO/ SPA has put together packages for every type of spa-goer and the menu isn’t yet available anywhere else in the world. Whether it’s been a big night and you want to pop in for a quick morning-after eye treatment to get you through, or you want to invest hours in your relaxation – there’s this, that and everything in between.

There’s an Urban Detox Facial for the hectic city-dweller, an Antioxidant Recovery Facial for the party people, Body Strategist Therapies for those wanting to shape up, Immune Boosting sessions if you’re feeling low and so much more. Massages, facials, wraps, peels, scrubs – the list is endless, and I’ve heard it’s always evolving, which will keep me coming back for more I’m sure.

For my first visit I tried the ‘Tibetan Beats’ experience, which included a beautiful sound bowl healing element that left me walking on air. Next up I’d like to try the 60-minute Frequent Flyer Recovery Treatment, which acts on various sensorial pathways to renew and refresh. It sounds like just the ticket after my upcoming trip to the US, which will undoubtedly involve a little overindulgence.

If you’re lucky enough to be staying in the hotel, you don’t even have to leave your room. A Bath Butler is on site to help you choose an in-room aromatherapy package to suit your needs. Each of the hotel’s 130 rooms have a bath and the package includes a specialised drink and products from handmade New Zealand aromatherapy and skincare company, Verité Spa Organics.

Last but my no means least, if like me you’re a local dropping in for some time out, every treatment over 60 minutes’ will give you free valet parking. How great is that?

To find out more head here.