Since 1906
From unexpected discovery to world-class mineral water.
1906
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.
1914
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.
1939
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.
1960
The end of an area.
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.
1993
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
2000
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.
2002
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.
Carbon-dated to at least 46,000 years, it is one of New Zealand's most mineral-rich bottled waters, offering a distinctive mineral profile and a soft, smooth finish.
2024
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 held in San Sebastian, Spain.
2025
Recognition grows.
That achievement was repeated in Atlanta, Georgia in 2025, securing back-to-back Gold recognition among the world’s finest mineral waters for taste.
2026
Three consecutive Golds.
2026 in Montreal, Canada saw our third consecutive Gold award, an achievement that placed Pure One among the most awarded waters in its category.
Continuing the story
More than two decades after Pure One was established, our commitment remains unchanged: to protect and share one of New Zealand's most unique natural resources.
Today, we continue to serve families throughout New Zealand while expanding into premium hospitality, partnering with restaurants, hotels and venues that value provenance, quality and exceptional guest experiences.
As the next chapter begins, our focus remains the same - sharing an ancient source with care.
"To have our water recognised as the world's best-tasting medium mineral water for three consecutive years is something we're incredibly proud to share from New Zealand."
- Mike Fahy, Founder
- Mike Fahy, Founder