A Heartfelt Thank You, Nelson Tasman — Opening Day Was a Success

Opening day at Ahi Mahi Sauna exceeded every hope we had. From the moment we lit the fire to the last post-sauna river plunge of the afternoon, the energy was relaxed, curious, and full of enthusiasm for what we’re creating here in the Maitai.

We want to extend a genuine thank you to everyone across Nelson and Tasman who showed up, booked in, and helped us bring this project to life from day one. Seeing locals embrace the concept — stepping into the cedar heat, tasting the rhythm of hot-cold therapy, and drifting down to the river for a refreshing dip — was incredibly rewarding.

What stood out most was how naturally the surroundings shaped the experience. The serenity of the valley, the crackle of the wood fire, and the bright flow of the Maitai created a ritual that felt both restorative and distinctly Nelson. Many guests described it as the perfect blend of nature and wellbeing, and that affirmation means a great deal to us.

Launching Ahi Mahi has been a journey in every sense — from building, refining, and testing, to welcoming our first guests and learning from your feedback. We’re grateful for the trust and support already shown by our local community, and excited to continue shaping this space into something Nelson can be proud of.

Thank you, Nelson.

We’re just getting started.