A private infrared sauna and cold plunge studio in Durie Hill, Whanganui, where every session is for one booking at a time. Sauna Sanctuary is at 3/56 Victoria Avenue. The website calls it a sibling-founded contrast therapy studio, and says its infrared heat works more deeply than a traditional sauna. Options include a solo or duo sauna session, a combined heat and cold circuit, a full hour, and a 90-minute Sanctuary Experience with aromatherapy. Towels, electrolytes, herbal tea, face cloths and aftercare products are included. There is no shower on site, so guests are asked to arrive clean and showered. Opening hours are Monday 6am to 11.30am and 3.30pm to 9pm, Tuesday to Thursday 8am to noon and 3.30pm to 9pm, and Saturday and Sunday 9am to noon and 4pm to 8.30pm. A limited-time Winter Reset, a 40-minute first session for new guests, was listed at $39 as at 2026.
Customers mention the relaxing atmosphere most often, along with the sauna and the plunge pool. One reviewer says it is a lovely place for relaxing muscles and recovering from injuries. Another enjoyed a half-hour sauna and cold plunge, and was given a gift voucher by a friend for their birthday. A third enjoyed a healing date night, and found the room clean, comfortable and welcoming.