Embargo: Jan 1, 2025

While celebrating their 10th anniversary, Aro Ha continues to push the boundaries of holistic wellbeing by integrating cutting-edge health technologies into its offerings. Tools such as wearable devices and biological age testing provide a modern, data-driven approach to optimising wellness, while remaining deeply rooted in Aro Ha's philosophy of mindfulness and connection with nature. This blend of advanced innovation and the destination's ongoing commitment to sustainability reaffirms Aro Ha's position as a frontrunner in the wellness industry.

Although Aro Ha is an off-grid retreat, the incorporation of technology into the experience is spearheaded by co-founder Damian Chaparro, who sees technology as a vital tool in the pursuit of personal health. 

“At Aro Ha, we believe there can be harmony between nature and innovation,” says Chaparro. “While we are deeply committed to providing an off-grid, low-impact environment for our guests, we also recognise the incredible potential that modern technology offers to enhance wellbeing. 

Chaparro continues, “When used mindfully, technology can empower individuals to take control of their health in ways that were never before possible. Whether it's tracking sleep, understanding glucose metabolism, or quantifying biological age, the tools we provide give our guests real, actionable insights into their wellness. Our mission is to create a space where guests can unplug from the noise of daily life, while still leveraging the best of what technology has to offer to support their health and transformation.”

Biological Age Testing

One of the most exciting technological innovations at Aro Ha is the ability to scientifically measure the physical benefits of the retreat's transformative wellness program through Biological Age Testing.

The GlycanAge test is a cutting-edge tool that allows guests to track their biological age and measure the impact of their time at Aro Ha. By analysing biomarkers in the blood, this test provides a precise, scientific measure of how the body is aging. Guests take the test on arrival and again upon departure, with results available four to six weeks later.

In August 2024, the first set of results came back from a retreat guest, showing a remarkable biological age reduction of 2.15 years between their pre- and post-retreat tests. This outcome underscores the profound impact that Aro Ha's holistic lifestyle and wellness programs can have on the body in a relatively short period. It's a powerful demonstration of how intentional lifestyle changes—such as improved nutrition, exercise, stress management, and restorative sleep—can lead to measurable, science-backed improvements in health.

Real-Time Health Tracking: Oura Rings and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)

Guests also have the option to track their wellbeing in real-time during their retreat, thanks to the availability of advanced health devices like the Oura Ring and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM).

• Oura Ring: Guests can rent an Oura Ring during their stay, a screen-free wearable device that tracks sleep, activity, and overall recovery. The Oura Ring provides valuable insights into health metrics such as sleep quality, movement, and readiness, all while minimising screen time and promoting a balanced, mindful approach to wellness. Guests gain deep insights into their body's rhythms, helping them make more informed decisions about their physical and mental wellbeing.
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Aro Ha offers the Lifestyle Libre 2 sensor, a state-of-the-art glucose monitor that pairs with any smartphone app. The 14-day sensor provides continuous, live readings of blood glucose levels, offering guests real-time data on how their diet, activity, sleep, and stress impact metabolism. Guests benefit from this data during their stay and continue to track their progress for six to seven days after their retreat, allowing them to make more informed decisions about nutrition, exercise, and stress management.

Embracing Bitcoin and AI 

Further than wellbeing trackers, Chaparro's interest in innovation can be seen throughout the organisation. Since 2020, Aro Ha has also embraced Bitcoin as a payment option, reflecting its commitment to decentralisation, transparency, and sustainability. Despite early projections that Bitcoin would consume unsustainable levels of energy, the cryptocurrency today uses just 0.1% of global energy, with over 50% of that coming from renewable sources. This reinforces Aro Ha's belief that Bitcoin is not only a healthier alternative to traditional financial systems, but also a more cost-effective, honest, and secure way to transact.

“As a wellness retreat, we focus on healing the mind and body, and we believe that a healthy financial system is an essential part of a healthy life,” said Chaparro. “Bitcoin offers a decentralised, transparent, and secure alternative to traditional currency systems, and we're proud to be a part of its growth.”

Aro Ha is also set to launch an AI-powered customer service system in the near future. This system will help streamline guest inquiries, ensuring that every guest receives prompt, personalised, and supportive service. The AI tool will complement Aro Ha's human touch, providing guests with quick, accurate responses while maintaining the welcoming, warm experience Aro Ha is known for.

A Balanced Approach

By integrating these advanced technologies, Aro Ha continues to enhance its holistic approach to wellness, which includes a strong focus on nature, physical fitness, mental clarity, and conscious living. Despite embracing cutting-edge tools, Aro Ha remains true to its core mission: providing an off-grid, low-impact experience in a serene, eco-conscious environment. By blending modern technologies with mindful, nature-based practices, Aro Ha creates a space where guests can embrace both innovation and tranquility, gaining valuable insights into their health while reconnecting with the natural world.

About Aro Ha Wellness Retreat

Aro Ha is a world-class wellness retreat located in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps, offering transformative, off-grid wellness experiences focused on health, mindfulness, and sustainability. Recognised globally for its commitment to eco-friendly practices and wellness excellence, Aro Ha combines science-backed wellness programs with the serene beauty of nature to help guests achieve lasting transformation.

For all media enquires and imagery requests, please contact:
Zoe Gibbs, PR & Partnerships Manager, Aro Ha Wellness Retreat
pr@aro-ha.com
+61 411 868 076