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
Sauna Fest 2025 Highlight Reel (long version)
What is Sauna Fest?
FAQ’S
WHAT DOES MY TICKET INCLUDE?
Sauna Fest is hosted at the Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park, https://bluelaketop10.co.nz/. Your GA ticket gives you access to everything the festival has to offer including on-site camping. On-site amenities include showers and toilets, along with regularly maintained shared kitchen spaces for those who prefer to cook their own meals. Your ticket gives you access to all workshops and saunas throughout the entire weekend.
WHAT ABOUT MY CAR OR CARAVAN?
There will be free off-site parking, however if you wish to bring your car in with you, you'll need to purchase a car pass (limited to 1 per site) or if you want plug in your caravan/motor home, you'll need to purchase a powered site pass. You can purchase a car pass or powered site via the ticket link.
WILL THERE BE FOOD TO PURCHASE?
In addition to kitchen facilities there are BBQ areas available for your use during the festival. There will also be a variety of delicious food available for purchase from a selection of food trucks, offering a diverse range of options to cater for all food and drink preferences.
WHAT ABOUT ALCOHOL?
No alcohol will be served at Sauna Fest. If you bring your own, we ask that you be responsible with it. Most people will not be drinking, so please don’t cause a scene—that’s not what the festival is about.
CAN I BRING MY DOG?
No sorry, not this year. We had some people last year breaking the dog rules so unfortunately we cant accommodate your furry friend.
IS THE SAUNA FEST FAMILY FRIENDLY?
Absolutely! Family-friendliness is a top priority for us. The festival features multiple playgrounds, including a pump track and a large bouncy pillow. We will also have a dedicated kids’ zone staffed by experienced kindergarten teachers. Children’s passes and family passes can be purchased at family-friendly prices to ensure everyone can join in the fun. We recommend camping in a quieter area away from the main tent; just ask us upon your arrival for directions.
CAN I STAY OFF-SITE AND COME BACK IN EACH DAY?
Absolutely, there are plenty of great accommodation options close-by on AirBnB and the likes. You will be given a wrist band and can come and go as you like.
DO I HAVE TO STICK TO THE RULES OF THE THEMED SAUNAS?
Yes please, each sauna will have a theme, silent, women's only, family friendly, naked, or free-flowing. Please check the sign before entering the sauna and stick to what it says.
HOW DO I APPLY AS A VOLUNTEER?
Applications open at the end of August.
HOW DO I APPLY AS A WORKSHOP PRESENTER and/or MUSICIAN?
Applications open at the end of August.
