Meet Shane The Heart Behind Southern Saunas
Born in Tauranga with proud Whakatōhea roots, Shane has always been drawn to adventure and wellness. With a diploma in Adventure Tourism and a heart full of passion, he’s spent years guiding thrill-seekers through white water rafting, bush craft and abseiling—helping people push their limits and embrace the wild.
After a career shift into mining, an injury led him down an unexpected but transformative path. Seeking recovery, he turned to sauna therapy, committing to five sessions a week—and quickly realised it was about more than just healing. The sauna became a place of connection, restoration, and community.
Inspired by this, Shane envisioned Southern Saunas—a space on the shores of Oreti Beach where people can gather, unplug, and recharge in nature.
Built with Purpose, Inspired by Tradition
"When I set out to find the perfect sauna, I had a clear vision: a traditional Finnish sauna—authentic, beautifully crafted, and built to stand the test of time. But there was just one problem—nothing like it existed locally. If I wanted it, I’d have to create it.
I knew this sauna had to be built with integrity—respecting the environment, using non-toxic materials, and designed to be as stunning as it was functional. No shortcuts, no compromises.
That’s when I found Rick Hill and his team at Made By Hideaway. Rick’s craftsmanship and attention to detail were second to none, and I knew instantly he was the right person for the job. After countless conversations—refining design ideas, materials, and functionality—the build was finally underway… and something truly special was about to take shape."
Key FEatures
- Ethically sourced timber
- Cedar inside & out for its beauty & amazing smell of Cedar
- Copper shower
- NZ wool insulated
- Non-toxic materials
- The cleanest combustion sauna heater in the world—designed with an environment-first mindset.
- Solar powered
Ready to sweat, unwind, and see what all the heat is about? Jump in and book your session—your sauna adventure starts here!