SummarySa-Ni Spa Manager Kanchan Kumar has worked in luxury hotel spas across the Pacific since 2007, and says a great spa experience should feel personal, never rushed. Here she shares Sa-Ni’s most popular treatments, her own favourite Auckland spots to unwind, and her everyday wellness tips.
Step into the soft, soothing surrounds of Abstract Hotel’s Sa-Ni Spa and you’ll feel your heart rate slow and your senses awaken. And there, waiting to greet guests with a warm glow and a serene smile, is Spa Manager Kanchan Kumar.
Kanchan’s journey into the beauty and wellness industry began in Fiji in 2007, where she completed her Diploma in Beauty Therapy. Since then she has worked in luxury hotel spas in the Pacific and here, before finding her place delivering exquisite experiences at Sa-Ni.
Having been with Sa-Ni since the beginning, Kanchan says she is immensely proud of its premium service and the three industry awards it has since won, and she feels blessed to work here. “I love my job,” says Kanchan. “The environment here is so peaceful, it’s totally heaven. When I arrive in the morning from the hustle and bustle of the city and I come in here, I feel so calm. It’s my peace place.”
Sa-Ni’s wellness philosophy
Kanchan believes it’s the passion of the people at Sa-Ni that make it special, as well as their tailored approach to treatments. “Our philosophy is that a spa experience should feel personal, never rushed. From the moment a guest arrives to the moment they leave, every detail should make them feel cared for. At Sa-Ni we give guests permission to pause, disconnect from the outside world and focus on themselves.”
Best treatments at Sa-Ni Spa
The treatment options at Sa-Ni range from specialised massages to body scrubs and purifying facials, but Kanchan’s personal favourite is the Sa-Ni Aromatherapy Massage. “I love it because it gives guests the opportunity to completely switch off and reconnect with themselves. It’s a light to medium pressure massage with a focus on pure relaxation.
“That said, I always encourage guests to speak with our therapists about what they need on the day. Sometimes the best treatment is not necessarily the one you initially planned, but it’s the one that’s right for how you are feeling in that moment.”
One of the most popular treatments at Sa-Ni is Pure Romance, which is a couple’s package. “It’s three hours at the spa and includes a ‘soak and sauna’, a massage, a facial and a complimentary platter and a glass of bubbles at the end too. It’s perfect for anniversaries, honeymooners or for celebrating a birthday.”
Where to unwind in Auckland
For Kanchan, the ideal way to de-stress in Auckland is to spend time in one of the city’s many natural spaces. “Cornwall Park is one of my favourite places to unwind,” she says. “I love the beautiful walking trails, peaceful surroundings and stunning views from One Tree Hill.”
A glimpse of the sea is always good for the soul, and with Viaduct Harbour within walking distance of Abstract, Kanchan likes a morning stroll there to soak in the vibrant waterfront atmosphere, with a pitstop for coffee in one of its cafes as she goes.
On the weekends she heads to Mission Bay, just east of the central city. “I love being at the beach and just listening to the sound of the waves coming in. That really calms me.”
Retail therapy
Kanchan also enjoys some retail therapy from time to time and that’s either heading to the boutiques of Commercial Bay downtown, or catching a train from the Waitematā Station to the shopping hub of Newmarket. A mere two stops away, it has something for every budget – from high-end brands to local labels.
“When I’m not at the spa, I enjoy exploring Auckland, discovering new places to spend time outdoors and finding little moments of calm in a busy city,” she adds.
Kanchan’s everyday wellness tips for a calmer life
For visitors and locals looking for a little more peace, Kanchan’s advice is to take the time to slow down and enjoy the present moment. “Stay hydrated, prioritise quality sleep, spend time outdoors and create small rituals that support your wellbeing. Wellness does not have to be complicated – it starts with making yourself a priority. Even something as simple as taking a few minutes to breathe, going for a walk, enjoying a quiet coffee, or putting your phone away for a while can make a difference.
“For me, luxury is not always about the biggest or most elaborate experience. It is often found in the little details: the warm welcome, being listened to, feeling comfortable, and knowing that someone genuinely cares about your experience.”
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