Here’s a sentence you never thought you’d hear – now you can sweat it out on Dunedin beaches all year round, even in winter.
Oranga Saunas are bringing the heat (literally) to Ōtepoti communities, all in the name of wellness. In Māori, “oranga” signifies life, wellbeing and good living, making their hot and cold therapy accessible to everyone. It’s not just about physical health; it's about community, too – you never know who you’ll be getting your kit off next to - shedding layers and social barriers.
Jossi, the man behind it all, isn’t particularly fond of oppressive heat or cold water - ironic given the idea for Oranga Saunas came to him during a steamy hot yoga session and his day job is spent in the freezing ocean as a commercial paua diver. It was during this session where he realised that warmth could not only fix a Dunedin winter, but a few creaky joints, too. The idea really came to life after spotting a half-built sauna in a mates backyard, so he bought it as-is, finished it off and "slapped it on a trailer and called it a business."
It's a simple but effective concept. Check their location online, book a seat (or book out the whole sauna), BYO towel and drink bottle and then relax and rejuvenate. Imagine the benefits of hot yoga, but without the awkward poses.
After 20 minutes or so, the staff poke their heads in and stoke the fire. That’s your cue to dash into the chilly Dunedin sea for the ultimate shock to the system. The magic of hot and cold therapy is so much better in a stunning natural setting rather than the inside of a beauty salon. By the time you stumble back purple and numb, the sauna feels like a tropical holiday, ready to thaw and revive, tingling from head to toe as blood returns to your extremities . From there it's steam, freeze and repeat.
Currently, Oranga are serving the Macandrew Bay, Brighton and St Clair communities with plans to expand offerings and locations. You can even book to it be delivered into your backyard if you fancy – transformative wellness that is transported to you.