Since 1906
From unexpected discovery to world-class mineral water.
A discovery by accident
In 1906, the Bonithon Petroleum Company drilled deep into the earth in search of oil. Instead, they uncovered something entirely unexpected - a naturally pressurised artesian water source.
What began as an oil exploration became the first chapter in a story that would span more than a century.
The Mineral Baths established
After years flowing quietly, the mineral-rich water found new purpose with the establishment of the Tarawhata Hot Mineral Baths in 1914.
Built as a public bathhouse with private mineral pools, it quickly became a destination for relaxation and wellness - drawing visitors to experience the natural therapeutic qualities of the water.
A reputation for wellness
By 1939, the Tarawhata Mineral Baths had gained widespread recognition. Promoted as among the most modern in the Southern Hemisphere, they were compared to renowned European mineral springs and celebrated for their restorative properties.
The source had earned its place in regional history.
The end of an era
The mineral baths remained a beloved destination until their closure in the mid-1960s. With the bathhouse later repurposed, the public chapter of the story paused - but the source endured beneath the earth, unchanged.
A rediscovery
Nearly three decades later in 1993, the property changed hands. What began as a rental investment led to an unexpected moment.
After turning a few valves on the historic bore, water began flowing once again.
“We assumed the well had been capped. Then suddenly, the water started flowing.”
— Mike Fahy
Revival of the spa
Construction began to restore the historic bathhouse, and in September 2000, the doors reopened as the Taranaki Thermal Spa.
A once-forgotten chapter had been brought back to life.
The birth of Pure One
Further scientific analysis confirmed what history had suggested - the mineral-rich artesian water was not only ideal for bathing, but safe and exceptional for drinking.
Pure One Mineral Water was established in 2001, becoming the only known mineral water of its kind in New Zealand.
Gold on the world stage
In 2024, Pure One was awarded Gold in the Taste category for Still, Medium Minerality at the prestigious Taste & Design Awards in Spain.
In 2025, that achievement was repeated in Atlanta, Georgia - securing back-to-back Gold recognition among the world’s finest mineral waters.
A source first revealed in 1906 in Taranaki, New Zealand, now stood proudly on the global stage.
A legacy continued
New Zealand family-owned and operated, Pure One continues to supply mineral water refills throughout Taranaki - while expanding access across New Zealand.
Nationwide, customers can now return their empty Pure One containers through our simple online refill system - a sustainable way to enjoy premium mineral water wherever you are in New Zealand.
More than a century after its discovery, the story continues.
“Being recognised as the best-tasting medium mineral water in the world - and sharing that from right here in New Zealand - makes us incredibly proud.”
- Mike Fahy, Founder
- Mike Fahy, Founder