The Ultimate Sauna Buyers Guide:

Benefits, Costs, Installation & More in New Zealand

This guide is written by Alpine Spas™ – New Zealand’s leading spa pool and sauna specialist, proudly family‑owned and trusted by over 60,000 customers across New Zealand and Australia. If you’re considering adding a sauna at home, this article will walk you through the different types, health benefits, running costs, installation, and how to choose the right model from the Alpine sauna range.

Regular sauna use is no longer just a “luxury gym” perk – emerging research links sauna bathing with better cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risks of heart disease and all‑cause mortality.

1. What is a Sauna?

2. Types of Saunas Available in New Zealand

   • Infrared Saunas

   • Traditional Finnish Saunas

   • Wood-Fired Saunas

3. Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas

4. Key Health and Wellness Benefits of Saunas

5. Infrared vs Traditional vs Wood‑Fired: What’s the Difference?

6. How Much Does it Cost to Run a Sauna?

7. Installation and Site Requirements

8. Materials and Build Quality

9. Pros and Cons of Home Saunas

10. When a Sauna Might Not Be Right for You

11. Choosing the Right Alpine Sauna

12. Why Buy Your Sauna from Alpine Spas?

13. Next Steps

What is a Sauna?

A sauna is an enclosed room designed to expose the body to controlled heat, encouraging deep sweating, relaxation, and a range of potential health benefits. Traditional Finnish saunas heat the air using a stove and sauna stones, often with steam created by ladling water onto the rocks, while infrared saunas use infrared panels that warm the body directly at lower air temperatures.

Alpine’s sauna range includes infrared, traditional Finnish, and wood‑fired designs, with both indoor and outdoor configurations to suit Kiwi homes, holiday homes, and backyards.

Types of Saunas Available in New Zealand?

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas use carbon or ceramic heating panels to emit infrared light that penetrates the skin and warms the body directly, allowing you to achieve a strong sweat at lower air temperatures (typically 45–65°C, with some models reaching around 70°C). Many people find this gentler heat more comfortable and easier to tolerate for longer sessions than the intense dry heat of a traditional sauna.​

On the Alpine infrared sauna range, popular indoor models include Oslo, Lyon, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Niva. These units arrive in pre‑cut panels with quick click‑in assembly and are designed to plug into a standard power supply, making them one of the simplest ways to add a sauna inside your home.

Traditional Finnish Saunas

Traditional saunas use an electric heater and sauna stones to heat the air to around 70–90°C, with some models capable of exceeding 100°C for those who love intense heat. You can pour water onto the stones to control humidity, shifting from dry heat to steamy sessions that feel closer to classic Finnish ritual.​

The Alpine traditional line includes compact indoor cabins like Malta and Athens, plus larger outdoor models such as Barrel, Vista Barrel, Vista Mini, Cabin, Lucca and Vista XL, many powered by trusted Harvia™ heaters. These options are ideal if you want that authentic “hot and steamy” feel, with enough space for entertaining friends or turning your backyard into a small wellness retreat.

Wood‑Fired Outdoor Saunas

Wood‑fired saunas deliver an off‑grid, ritual‑style experience, heating the room with a dedicated wood‑burning stove rather than electricity. They’re perfect for baches, rural sections, and lifestyle properties where you want the crackle of a fire, the smell of timber, and a completely unplugged session.

Alpine’s wood‑fired range includes the Wood Fired Barrel, Wood Fired Vista, and Wood Fired Vista XL, all designed for 4–8 people and built from premium Canadian red cedar with vigorously tested 2.5 mm steel wood burners. These models require no power for heating, making them fully off‑grid while still capable of reaching 80–90°C and, with a well‑packed fire, pushing beyond 100°C.

Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas - What is the difference?

Alpine offers both indoor and outdoor saunas, often using the same core designs in different configurations.

• Indoor saunas (e.g. Oslo, Lyon, Copenhagen, Malta, Athens, Helsinki) come as pre‑cut panels that assemble quickly and plug into a suitable power supply, making them ideal for spare rooms, home gyms, or dedicated wellness spaces.

• Outdoor saunas (e.g. Lucca, Niva, Vista Mini, Infrared Barrel, Barrel, Hut, Cabin, Vista Barrel, Vista XL, Wood Fired Barrel, Wood Fired Vista, Wood Fired Vista XL) are supplied as kitsets with clear, step‑by‑step instructions, ready to build on a prepared base in your garden or on a deck.

If you’re unsure which format suits your space, you can browse by Indoor and Outdoor Sauna pages, ask the Alpine team for tailored advice or read our dedicated article: What is the difference between Indoor Saunas and Outdoor Saunas?.

Key Health and Wellness Benefits of Saunas

Cardiovascular Health and Longevity

Large Finnish cohort studies have found that regular sauna bathing is associated with lower risks of high blood pressure, stroke, and fatal cardiovascular events, as well as reduced all‑cause mortality. In one long‑term study, people using a sauna 2–3 times per week had around a 24% lower risk of death, while those going 4–7 times per week had up to about 40% lower all‑cause mortality compared with once‑a‑week users.

Mechanistically, sauna use temporarily raises heart rate and improves blood vessel function in ways similar to moderate exercise, which may help improve endothelial function, reduce arterial stiffness, and support healthier blood pressure over time.

Stress Reduction and Mental Wellbeing

Saunas are widely used for relaxation, and research suggests regular sessions can reduce perceived stress levels, improve mood, and support better sleep. The combination of heat, quiet, and a device‑free environment helps shift the nervous system towards a more parasympathetic, “rest and digest” state, which many people find helps them unwind at the end of the day.

In New Zealand, homeowners increasingly use saunas alongside spa pools, hot tubs, and ice baths to create simple, repeatable rituals that support mental resilience and overall wellbeing.

Muscle Recovery, Pain Relief, and Detoxification

Heat exposure from both infrared and traditional saunas increases blood flow to muscles and joints, which can help reduce soreness, stiffness, and perceived pain, especially after exercise or long workdays. Clinical and observational work suggests infrared saunas may be particularly helpful for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.

Regular deep sweating also supports the body’s natural detoxification processes by promoting fluid turnover and skin cleansing, which some users associate with clearer skin and a general feeling of “lightness” after sessions.

Infrared vs Traditional vs Wood‑Fired: What’s the Difference?

From a user’s perspective, the main differences between sauna types are heat intensity, humidity, energy use, and overall feel.​

• Traditional saunas: High air temperatures (typically 70–90°C, with some models exceeding 100°C), dry heat that can be made steamy by adding water to stones, a strong “wow” factor, and higher power draw from 6 kW or 9 kW heaters.​

• Infrared saunas: Lower air temperatures (often 50–60°C, up to roughly 70°C), deeper infrared penetration into tissues, a gentler sensation that still produces a vigorous sweat, and significantly lower power consumption (around 1.5–2.4 kW in Alpine units).​

• Wood‑fired saunas: Similar heat levels to traditional saunas but driven entirely by a wood stove, creating an off‑grid, cabin‑in‑the‑woods feel with crackling fire, chimney draft, and the pleasure of tending the burn.

Which is “better” largely comes down to preference: if you want intense, steamy heat, choose a traditional or wood‑fired model; if you prefer a gentler environment you can stay in longer, an infrared sauna is often ideal.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a Sauna?

Infrared Sauna Running Costs

Indoor infrared saunas cost less than $1 per hour to run based on average New Zealand power rates, thanks to their relatively low heater wattages (around 1.5–2.4 kW). That makes them one of the most energy‑efficient ways to access regular heat therapy at home, especially compared to frequent visits to gyms or commercial wellness centres.​

Because infrared saunas operate at lower air temperatures and use efficient carbon panels, they typically reach operating temperature faster and maintain it with less total energy than a traditional electric sauna.​

Traditional Electric Sauna Running Costs

Traditional electric saunas use higher‑powered heaters (commonly 6 kW or 9 kW), which naturally draw more electricity per hour than infrared models. While session lengths are often shorter due to the more intense heat, regular users should expect higher running costs than an equivalent‑size infrared cabin, particularly in colder environments where pre‑heating times are longer.​

General spa and sauna industry estimates suggest that for regularly used, well‑insulated traditional saunas in New Zealand, total running costs remain manageable, especially if sessions are kept to moderate lengths and the room is in a reasonably warm, sheltered location.

Wood‑Fired Sauna Running Costs

Wood‑fired saunas are completely off‑grid for heating – there is no electrical connection required for the stove, so your primary ongoing cost is firewood. A well‑packed fire will typically need around 30–60 minutes to bring the sauna up to comfortable operating temperatures, with additional wood required to maintain high temperatures or extended sessions.

If you have access to affordable or self‑cut firewood and like the ritual of lighting and tending a fire, wood‑fired models can be a cost‑effective option with minimal ongoing energy bills.

Installation and Site Requirements

Indoor Sauna Installation

Most Alpine indoor saunas arrive as pre‑cut, panel‑style kits that two people can assemble in roughly 60 minutes. Infrared cabins in particular use quick click‑in designs and are built to plug into a standard power supply (check each model’s electrical requirements), making them one of the easiest wellness upgrades you can add to a spare room or home gym.

Key considerations include:

• A flat, level floor capable of supporting the sauna’s weight

• Adequate ceiling height and clearance per the manual

• Correct power socket and circuit, installed by a licensed electrician where required​

Please contact our team if you are unsure whether a space is suitable before you order.

Outdoor Sauna Installation

Outdoor saunas require a solid, level base such as a concrete slab or engineered deck to support the weight of the sauna and occupants. Like spa pools, most industry guidance suggests at least a 100 mm reinforced concrete pad or properly engineered timber deck, especially for larger barrel or cabin‑style saunas.

Other outdoor factors to consider:

• Safe roof and flue clearances for wood‑fired units

• Protection from prevailing winds and driving rain

• Proximity to the house for winter use and convenience

• Access for delivery, kitset assembly, and any future servicing

We deliver saunas nationwide and can advise on hiab requirements, driveways, rural properties, and manpower needed for positioning your new unit.

Materials and Build Quality

Timber Choices: Hemlock vs Canadian Red Cedar - What is the difference?

We build saunas from FSC®‑certified Canadian hemlock and Canadian red cedar, chosen for their durability, appearance, and heat performance.

Hemlock is incredibly durable, completely toxin‑free, and has excellent heat retention characteristics, which helps keep running costs low and sessions comfortable.

Canadian red cedar is naturally insulating, resistant to decay and insects, and releases a subtle, relaxing aroma when warmed, enhancing the overall experience in premium models such as the cedar‑clad traditional cabins and barrels.

Both timbers are selected for stability under repeated heating and cooling cycles, ensuring long‑term performance.

Please also read our article: What is the Best Wood for a Sauna? (Cedar vs Hemlock)

Heaters, Panels, and Components

• Infrared models use industry‑leading carbon panels to deliver even, efficient heat across the cabin, designed for deep, comfortable sweating at moderate temperatures.​

• Traditional electric models use trusted Harvia™ heaters paired with sauna stones, delivering authentic Finnish‑style heat and steam.​

• Wood‑fired models use 2.5 mm steel wood burners specifically tested for sauna use, capable of reaching very high temperatures safely when installed to specification.

Every layout is ergonomically designed so benches, backrests, and controls feel natural and comfortable during real‑world sessions, not just on a spec sheet.

Pros and Cons of Home Saunas

Key Advantages:

• Powerful health potential: Regular sauna use has been linked to lower blood pressure, reduced cardiovascular mortality, and improved overall longevity in Finnish cohort studies.

• Stress relief and mental reset: Many users report better sleep, calmer mood, and a reliable way to “switch off” after work or training.

• Recovery and pain relief: Both infrared and traditional saunas can help relieve muscle soreness, joint stiffness, and chronic pain by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.

• At‑home convenience: Instead of booking sessions at a gym or spa, you can walk a few steps to your own sauna, increasing the likelihood you’ll use it consistently.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Upfront investment: Quality saunas require a meaningful initial spend, plus any necessary electrical work and base construction.​

• Running costs: Traditional and wood‑fired models use more energy (or firewood) than infrared, especially if used for long, frequent sessions.​

• Space and planning: You’ll need suitable indoor room space or outdoor area, load‑rated foundations, and safe clearances for heaters and flues.

• Heat tolerance: Some people, especially with certain medical conditions, may find very high temperatures uncomfortable without appropriate guidance from a health professional.

Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Needs

Selecting the optimal sauna requires careful consideration of several key factors:

Essential Questions to Consider:

1. Purpose and Goals: What specific health benefits are you seeking? Different saunas offer varying therapeutic advantages.

2. Heating Preferences: Do you prefer lower temperatures with deep heat penetration, or do you enjoy the intense heat of traditional saunas?

3. Space Requirements: What size sauna fits your available indoor or outdoor space and what are your capacity needs?

4. Budget Considerations: What's your total investment budget, including potential installation costs?

5. Maintenance Preferences: How much time do you want to spend on cleaning and maintenance?

Popular Indoor Infrared models like the Oslo Infrared Sauna excel for compact spaces and 1-2 users, while the spacious Outdoor Traditional Vista XL Sauna has room for up to 8 people.

When is a sauna not the right choice?

A home sauna may not be the best fit if:

• You have no realistic indoor or outdoor space that can safely support the weight and clearances required.

• You strongly prefer hydro‑massage jets and water‑based therapy – in which case a spa pool or swim spa may suit you better.

• You’re unlikely to use it consistently enough to justify the space and upfront investment, or you’re not comfortable managing temperature, session length, and basic maintenance.

Anyone with cardiovascular disease, unstable medical conditions, or who is pregnant should talk to their doctor before starting regular sauna use, as most large studies and expert reviews stress that heat stress must be approached sensibly and individually.

Choosing the Right Alpine Sauna

When browsing the Alpine saunas range, consider the following:

1. Primary goal: Relaxation and stress relief, cardiovascular health, recovery and pain relief, or social gatherings? Infrared cabins are often chosen for gentler, recovery‑focused sessions, while larger traditional or wood‑fired units suit social and ritual‑style use.​

2. Indoor vs outdoor: Indoor models like Oslo, Lyon, Copenhagen, Malta, Athens, and Helsinki are ideal for spare rooms or gyms; outdoor models like Barrel, Vista Barrel, Cabin, Vista Mini, Vista XL, and wood‑fired variants create a dedicated backyard retreat.

3. Heat style: Do you like intense dry/steamy heat (traditional/wood‑fired) or prefer a lower‑temperature yet deep‑penetrating warmth (infrared)?​

4. Number of users: Alpine offers 2‑person cabins up to 8‑person barrel saunas – think about how many people will realistically use the sauna together.

5. Power and site: Do you have adequate electrical capacity for a 6–9 kW traditional heater, or would a lower‑draw infrared cabin or off‑grid wood‑fired model be simpler for your property?

6. Budget (all‑in): Include the sauna itself, base or deck, any additional electrical work, and accessories in your planning.​

If you’re unsure, you can:

• Contact our team and they will help you finding the right Sauna that suits your needs.

• Visit our showrooms to experience different sauna types in person.

• Explore Learn Centre articles like “How Does an Infrared Sauna Compare to a Traditional Sauna?” for deeper dives.

Please also check out our Product Finder, to see which Sauna is right for you!

Why Choose Alpine Spas for Your Sauna

• As New Zealand's leading sauna retailer, Alpine Spas offers several compelling advantages for infrared sauna buyers:

• With over 60,000 satisfied customers, Alpine Spas represents New Zealand's largest sauna and spa pool retailer. Our extensive experience ensures expert guidance throughout your purchase journey.

• Comprehensive Product Range

• From compact models like the Oslo Infrared Sauna to larger saunas like the Vista XL Sauna, Alpine Spas offers options for every space and budget requirement.

• Nationwide Service Network

• Alpine Spas' delivery network covers all of New Zealand, with showrooms across the country for hands-on product evaluation.

• World-Class Warranties and After Sale Support: All Alpine Spas infrared saunas include comprehensive warranties and ongoing customer support, ensuring peace of mind with your investment.

• If you are after a full Hot/Cold Therapy experience, Alpine Spas provides multiple Sauna & Ice Bath Combos, to make sure you get the best bang for your buck.

• For traditional sauna enthusiasts, Alpine Spas also offers premium options like the Vista Barrel Sauna or Wood Fired Vista Sauna for authentic Finnish sauna experiences.

Next Steps

To explore Alpine Spas' complete range of infrared saunas, traditional saunas and wood fired saunas, visit our sauna collection or contact our expert team for personalized recommendations. With our extensive experience, comprehensive warranties, and nationwide support network, Alpine Spas provides the ideal foundation for beginning your infrared sauna wellness journey.

A well‑chosen sauna can transform your daily routine, helping you relax, recover, and look after your long‑term health – all without leaving home.

Please check our full range of Spa Pools | Saunas | Hot Tubs | Swim Spas | Ice Baths | Combo Deals | Accessories or

visit Spa Supplies, New Zealand's favourite shop with everything for your spa pool or sauna! They have Chemicals, Filters, Parts and Accessories - all at incredibly low prices.