G2A Studio were approached to determine the possibilities to develop the site to create revenue for the owner and provide a legacy project for his family. The client was committed to proposing a responsible development that would not be controversial for the local community and that would benefit them and Waiheke as a whole.

The idea of establishing a hot pool and spa facility, influenced by the Japanese style Onsen was pursued.

The discussions progressed during the visit and a ‘vision’ began to take shape whereby a visitor facility could be established utilizing the geothermally heated water supplemented by secondary heating, possibly using solar energy. This facility would be targeted at visitors, locals and overseas tourists and supported by some visitor accommodation.

The idea was that this could then be complemented by a spa facility, possibly with a separate entrance that would be targeting an adult only market and be for a more exclusive clientele.