SAUNA FEST
14-16 May 2027 | Blue Lake-Rotorua
Sauna Fest is The Sauna Project's annual gathering, where our franchise network brings together their wood-fired mobile saunas from all over New Zealand for one unforgettable weekend.
Over 20 saunas will be scattered along the lake and throughout the surrounding bush, each offering its own unique experience. Some are silent, some are women only, some are family friendly, and many have their own themes and personalities to discover.
This year we're continuing our focus on creating incredible experiences inside the sauna, especially through the art of Aufguss.
Aufguss is a traditional German sauna ritual where water infused with essential oils is poured over the hot stones, while the sauna guide circulates the hot air with a towel. The result is an immersive journey of heat, aroma, music, and connection that transforms the sauna into something truly special.
But Sauna Fest doesn't stop there. It's a full weekend packed with amazing people, workshops, live music, movement, great food, cold plunges, lakeside sunsets, and countless moments of connection.
It’s an unforgettable experience created to celebrate and grow sauna culture in New Zealand
A place to connect, learn and grow sauna culture in Aotearoa
Sauna Fest is our attempt of growing sauna culture in New Zealand. We aim to create a space where people can collectively explore the health-giving benefits of sauna. One way we do this is by incorporating ancient traditions into our sauna practices, using steam and oils to create a multi-sensory experience that enhances well-being. Alongside the saunas, we offer a range of activities designed to spark new ideas, encourage meaningful connection, and celebrate the joy of being in each other’s presence. These include:
Sauna - Workshops - Talks - Music - Yoga - Dance - Lake Swims
Bush Walks - Lakeside Runs - Food - Connection - Meditation
We aim to create a space that allows people to feel connected not only to their inner life but also to those around them. We see festivals as a rare opportunity to learn new things and experience unity over the course of a weekend.
If you enjoy saunas and would like to be part of the growing sauna culture in New Zealand, we’d love for you to join us.
Video Library
Sauna Fest 2025 Highlight Reel
One word to describe Sauna Fest
What is Sauna Fest?
