Thinking about ways to unwind after days of sightseeing or travel in Christchurch? This 75-minute Head Spa experience at Yaos Day Spa offers a soothing escape that promises to melt away fatigue and restore your energy. While it’s not a typical sightseeing tour, it’s a perfect treat for those wanting to relax deeply in a calming, private setting.
What we love about this experience is how it combines traditional Chinese wellness practices with personalized care — offering real stress relief and a nourishing scalp treatment. Plus, the warm towel wrap and herbal oils provide a sensory experience that many travelers don’t get every day.
A possible consideration is that this is a private, appointment-only session, so it might not suit last-minute planners or travelers seeking a group or more social experience. Also, at nearly $99, it’s on the higher end for a spa treatment, but many find the quality and personalized attention justify the cost.
This experience suits travelers who prioritize relaxation, self-care, and authentic wellness practices. If you’re seeking a chance to unwind after long travel days or simply want a break from sightseeing, this spa treatment could be a wonderful choice.
Key Points

- Relaxation focus: Designed specifically to help travelers and stressed visitors unwind.
- Traditional techniques: Incorporates Chinese wellness practices like pressure point work.
- Herbal nourishment: Uses herbal-infused oils for scalp and hair care.
- Private setting: Conducted in a private room with an English-speaking therapist.
- Comfort first: Warm towel wraps enhance relaxation and absorption.
- Includes tea: A calming tea service after the treatment adds to the experience.
A Gentle, Restorative Escape in Christchurch

If you’re exploring Christchurch and find yourself feeling tired or overstimulated, this Travel Recovery Head Spa offers a promising way to rejuvenate. The treatment lasts about 75 minutes, providing ample time for relaxation without feeling rushed. What makes this experience stand out is its focus on restoring energy and soothing the nervous system — especially important if your travels have been demanding or if you’re battling jet lag or sleepless nights.
The session begins with a slow, therapeutic head massage that emphasizes gentle stimulation of circulation and relaxation of tense muscles. We love how these massages are drawn from traditional Chinese wellness practices, which often emphasize the importance of energy flow — or “qi” — for overall health. The pressure point work aims to ease blockages and restore a sense of balance, making this more than just a pampering session; it’s a form of stress management tailored for travelers.
Following the massage, your scalp and hair are nourished with herbal-infused oils. Using natural ingredients, this treatment not only leaves your scalp feeling refreshed but also imparts a subtle, calming aroma that has a lasting effect. The warm towel wrap helps the oils penetrate deeply, enhancing their nourishing effect and providing a comforting, cocoon-like experience. Many reviews highlight how the professional and caring staff make a real difference, with one reviewer praising the “absolutely lovely, caring, and attentive” staff who made the whole experience “fantastic from beginning to end.”
Once the treatment concludes, a relaxing tea service allows you to unwind further, sip in tranquility, and gradually re-enter the busy rhythm of sightseeing or travel. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds a sense of ritual and calm after the session.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Christchurch.
What to Expect: Step-by-Step

The experience kicks off at 106 Montreal Street, conveniently located for travelers. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a professional, English-speaking therapist who guides you into a private room. The entire session is tailored for individual comfort, focusing solely on your relaxation.
As the session begins, you’ll lie back comfortably while the therapist performs a slow, therapeutic head massage. This gentle but effective technique is designed to stimulate circulation and soothe your nervous system, which can be especially beneficial if you’ve been a bit tense or sleep-deprived.
Next, the therapist applies a herbal oil mixture to your scalp and hair, carefully massaging it in to promote nourishment and deep relaxation. The warm towel wrap follows, enveloping your head in warmth while the herbal oils absorb fully, leaving your scalp feeling invigorated and your mind clearer.
Throughout, the pressure point work is subtly incorporated to help restore your body’s energy flow — think of it as a mini acupuncture session, but without needles. The entire process is both therapeutic and pampering, designed to leave you feeling refreshed, balanced, and energized.
After the treatment, you’ll be invited to enjoy a relaxing cup of tea, giving you time to settle back and savor the calm before returning to your day. The whole experience is carried out in a peaceful, immaculate environment, making it easy to unwind completely.
Pricing and Value
At $98.67 per person, this is a somewhat premium spa treatment, but many travelers find that the quality of care, personalized attention, and holistic approach justify the price. The treatment’s focus on stress relief and relaxation makes it particularly valuable for weary travelers looking for an authentic, wellness-centered experience.
Given the average booking time of 51 days in advance, it’s clear that this is a sought-after treatment, especially for those who value advance planning and tailor-made relaxation sessions. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, allowing travelers to reserve with confidence.
The Experience Provider: Yaos Day Spa

Yaos Day Spa has a reputation for attention to detail and caring service, as evidenced by a glowing review describing the experience as “fantastic from beginning to end.” The staff’s caring and attentive nature ensures that every guest feels valued and comfortable, which is crucial for a treatment like this.
Who Should Consider This?

This head spa is ideal for travelers who prioritize self-care, relaxation, and authentic wellness practices. It’s perfect after days of sightseeing, before a long journey, or simply if you want to indulge in a moment of calm. Because it’s a private, appointment-only treatment, it suits those who prefer personalized, quiet experiences over group activities.
It’s also a good choice for anyone interested in traditional Chinese wellness methods or herbal treatments, as these are core elements of the experience. Keep in mind, it’s a premium priced service, so it’s best suited for those willing to invest in a quality, restorative session.
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FAQs
How long does the Head Spa last?
The session lasts about 75 minutes, providing enough time for a thorough massage, herbal nourishment, and relaxation.
Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially since it’s a private treatment. However, if you have specific health conditions or concerns, it’s best to consult with the therapist beforehand.
What language is the therapist speak?
The therapist speaks English, making communication easy and clear.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours before are not accepted.
Where is the meeting point?
The treatment begins at 106 Montreal Street, Sydenham, Christchurch; the session ends back at this same location.
Is there any food or drink included?
Yes, a relaxing tea service is included after the treatment, perfect for savoring the calm.
What is the cost of this experience?
It costs approximately $98.67 per person, which many see as good value for such a personalized, holistic wellness treatment.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Christchurch and looking for a way to escape stress and enjoy genuine relaxation, this 75-minute Head Spa offers a rare chance to indulge in both traditional Chinese wellness practices and natural hair care. The experience’s focus on restoring energy and calming the nervous system makes it especially appealing for travelers who want to feel refreshed and balanced.
The private setting, caring staff, and nourishing herbal treatments set it apart from more commercial spa options. While its price might be a consideration for budget travelers, those seeking a luxurious, restorative break will appreciate the quality and attention to detail.
In short, this head spa can be a highlight of your trip—a quiet moment of self-care in a busy travel schedule. Whether you’re recovering from jet lag or simply want to treat yourself, it’s a calming, nourishing experience that’s well worth the investment.
Note: Be sure to book well in advance given its popularity and limited slots, especially if traveling during peak seasons.
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