A new floating sauna with mountain views is coming to Queenstown this month

Watershed's floating sauna on Lake Whakatipu

BY Rachael Thompson

Last updated . 02 December 2025

Watershed combines hot temperatures with the refreshing waters of Lake Whakatipu.

The sauna trend is showing no signs of slowing down, and the latest hotspot to catch our attention is a floating wellness retreat with mountain and lake views in New Zealand. Located in the heart of Queenstown, Watershed is Aotearoa’s first floating design, offering a revitalising experience for locals and tourists alike.

The first purpose-built floating sauna arrives in Queenstown.

Watershed features two floating saunas: a larger sauna accommodating up to 14 guests, and a smaller sauna for up to six guests, perfect for private bookings. Saunas are an essential part of Nordic culture, and Watershed was designed with Finnish expertise for an authentic experience. Both are fitted with Finnish Narvi heaters, which are renowned for producing excellent löyly (steam).

Focused on contrast therapy, each of the sleek, timber-clad cabins features a private plunge pool fed by the pure waters of Lake Whakatipu, so you can enjoy the rhythmic transition between hot and cold therapy. Lake temperatures reach a chilling 9 degrees in winter and 13 degrees in summer. If a full plunge isn’t your style, you can enjoy a quick refresh under the showers, which use reticulated lake water.

the Watershed sauna Queenstown with floor-to-ceiling windows

Find your zen in the winter months with hot and cold therapy.

Both saunas have floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range. The surrounding alpine landscape and spectacular westerly sunsets over the water connect guests with nature and induce a feeling of zen. Bench seating on the deck and in the cool rooms (with underfloor heating) also provides a comfortable spot to relax, unwind and take in the sweeping vistas.

The new floating wellness retreat offers panoramic mountain views.

Sessions are 60 minutes, and up to three rounds of 15 minutes each are recommended between cold sessions. Towels, lockers and changing rooms are provided.

Whether it’s for restoring tired legs after hitting the slopes or to spend a relaxing session, resetting your mind and body, Watershed offers a restorative spot to improve circulation, stress relief and muscle recovery.