Frequently Asked Questions.

  • What is Sonder Sauna?

    • Sonder Sauna provides a unique mobile sauna and ice bath experience, bringing the benefits of traditional Finnish sauna and cold-water therapy to you. We offer both event hire and regular sessions at our beach location.

  • Where are you located?

    • We have a regular location at Murrays Bay beach Auckland and travel throughout the greater Auckland area for events.

  • What areas do you serve?

    • We primarily serve the Auckland region, including the North Shore. Contact us to discuss your specific location needs.

  • What is Hot and Cold Therapy

    • Hot and Cold Therapy involves alternating between heat and cold. This usually means spending time in a sauna and then cooling off in an ice bath or ocean.

  • What temperature is the Sauna and ice bath

    • The Sauna runs at about 70°C (185°F) to about 90°C (194°F) you can move around to get hotter spots and colder spots depending on your preference.

    • Ice bath runs about 4°C (39.2°F) to 8°C ( 46.4°F)

    • The Hauraki Gulf's ocean temperature varies throughout the year.

      • Warmest: The water is typically warmest in February, with an average temperature around 21.2°C (70.2°F).

      • Coldest: August is usually the coldest month, with an average water temperature of around 14.6°C (58.3°F)

  • What are the benefits of sauna and ice bath therapy?

    • Sauna and ice bath therapy may help with muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, stress reduction, and overall well-being. Our team use Sauna after sports like surfing and yoga and love the benefits it brings

  • Is prior experience necessary?

    • No prior experience is necessary. Our staff will guide you through the process and ensure your comfort and safety.

  • What should I bring?

    • We recommend bringing two towels (one to sit on and one to dry off), swimwear, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. We can provide towels upon request at a small cost.

  • Do you provide sauna hats?

    • Yes, we can provide sauna hats for $2 upon request if we have available.

Mobile Sauna Hire

  • What events can I hire the sauna for?

    • Our mobile sauna is perfect for a wide range of events, including weddings, parties, corporate events, festivals, and private gatherings.

  • How much does it cost to hire the mobile sauna?

    • Pricing varies depending on the duration of the rental, location, and any additional services. Please contact us for a customized quote.

  • How far in advance should I book?

    • We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, especially for popular dates and events.

  • What is included in the rental?

    • The rental typically includes delivery, setup, use of the sauna and ice bath, and takedown. We can also provide towels and sauna hats upon request for a small cost.

  • Do you require any specific setup requirements?

    • We require a relatively flat surface to set up the sauna and access to water for the ice bath. We are completely off grid and have limited integrated showers.

  • How long does setup take?

    • Setup typically takes about one hour to get to temperature .

  • Is there a cancelation policy?

    • Yes, cancelation policies vary depending on the booking. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Beach Sauna Session

  • Do I need to book for beach sessions?

    • Booking is highly recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak hours.

  • What are the session times?

    • Please check our website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on session times. Most sessions will start on the hour

  • What is the duration of a session?

    • Sessions typically last for 55 mins.

    • We Recommend three rounds of 15 min (sauna) with 3 cold dips weather that’s the sea or our ice bath.

  • Can I book a private session at the beach?

    • Yes, private sessions can be arranged. We have an option to book the hole sauna at our beach location or we can come to your private event. Please check our booking page or contact us for availability and pricing.

Safety

  • Is using a sauna and ice bath safe?

    • For most healthy individuals, sauna and ice bath therapy is safe. However, it's important to consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions, such as heart problems, high blood pressure, pregnancy, or other concerns.

  • What safety precautions should I take?

    • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your session.

    • Limit your time in the sauna and ice bath, and listen to your body.

    • Avoid using the sauna under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

    • If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell, exit the sauna or ice bath immediately.

  • Are there any age restrictions?

    • We recommend that users be at least 12 years old. Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Sonder Sauna welcomes children over the age of 12 to experience the benefit of sauna. In order to give everyone a safe and enjoyable experience, we have a few simple rules outlined below.

  • Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times whilst in the sauna

  • Children should never be left unattended in the sauna.

  • It is important that the adult observes how the child’s body is responding to the high temperatures and is aware of signs of discomfort such as dizziness, headaches and feeling too hot.

  • The surface of the stove reaches temperatures in excess of 250 degrees and would cause severe burns if touched, therefore children should sit away from the stove. A space, or an adult, must be between the child and stove.

  • As a rule, the younger the child, the more vigilant the adult needs to be!

Is it safe for my child to have a sauna?
 

  • Sauna is safe for healthy children as long as they are closely monitored. Children are not able to regulate their own temperature like adults, for example they don’t sweat as much. Children should have sessions in the sauna limited to a few minutes, especially if it is their first time. Regular breaks to cool down and hydrate are essential. Changes in the child body temperature can affect their blood pressure causing them to feel dizzy or unsteady on their feet.

  • Be mindful that children may not be able to recognise these symptoms or tell you how they are feeling therefore it is essential that they are closely monitored at all times during and immediately after their sauna session.

  • The ice bath is not to be used by children under 16 years of age. We recommend the have a supervised dip in the sea or a shower to cool down.

  • We will ask you to sign a waiver form when you arrive at the sauna to confirm you have read and understand this guidance of bringing children to the sauna and that you take full responsibility for looking after them whilst on site.

  • If the child is feeling unwell or has been recently, they should not attend the sauna.

  • Whilst in the sauna, children must remain seated and leave the sauna when their accompanying adult does. Children must not add water to the stove due to the risk of burns from steam.