Now I have to admit that there are a few perks that come with the job of being an editor, and I was definitely reminded of that when Nat, editor of Gloss and I were invited to experience the Sanctuary Day Spa at Auckland boutique hotel Mollie’s. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the lovely Joanna Burke, general manager of the hotel, who gave us a tour of some of the beautiful room in the hotel, and the restaurant.

Mollie’s is a boutique hotel with 13 suites, and they are all absolutely divine. Each one is different, full of personal touches and unique art. The hotel is definitely characterised by an air of romance and luxury, filled with candles, chandeliers, vases and flowers, and a baby grand in the foyer. In fact, Mollie’s was voted by MSN Lifestyle as one of the top 10 places in the world to propose (hint, hint, to all the men!), and that doesn’t surprise me at all – it is truly a romantic setting. When we left, it was getting dark and the entire foyer and restaurant were lit by candlelight. Thursday to Saturday, there is even live opera in the foyer area to entertain guests. (Remind me to start dropping hints to the boy about taking me here...)

(Nat and I ready for our facials)

After our tour, Nat and I were escorted to the Sanctuary Day Spa, hidden away in the hotel, where we were treated to a luxury Dermalogica facial. Sanctuary Day Spa’s philosophy is simple – it is to pamper you, and they certainly succeed at this. The lovely Fern, who looked after me, is a massage expert so I was also given a neck and shoulder massage while my mask was setting– amazing! The spa has a full treatment menu, with everything from massage to waxing to manicures available, and is a peaceful haven located right in the heart of the city. What more could you want? After our facial, we then sat down to a glass of champagne and some nibbles – we even enjoyed homemade biscuits courtesy of Joanna’s mum (and they were delicious!).

At the Sanctuary Day Spa and Mollie’s there is a real emphasis on making clients feel special – I left feeling truly relaxed, but also like I had been treated to a real piece of luxury. I would definitely recommend that if you are looking for a really special way to celebrate – perhaps you’re organising your best friend’s hen’s party, or have a special birthday coming up, then do it at Mollie’s. Why not organise a spa session for the girls, followed by a fabulous gourmet dinner at the restaurant? I’m already planning an afternoon at the spa with my sister in the next few weeks.

(Mollies exterior)

For more information on Mollie’s and the Sanctuary Day Spa, visit www.mollies.co.nz