Where slowness becomes ritual, warmth becomes community, and presence feels effortless.
It all began with a shared passion for health, wellness and slow living.
Yutori Sauna was co-created by Tom Robinson and Louis Smith.
Louis, co-founder of Black Swamp Dojo, had been a sauna owner for a while and had seen what it could do - not just for health, but for bringing people together.
Tom had recently retired from professional rugby and found his purpose in connection and community, through yoga and events that gave people a reason to gather.
Both wanted to create something rooted in wellbeing and presence.
A vision to create a space that inspires.
A sauna is a small and intimate space, so every detail matters. Tom and Louis wanted to create something beautiful, functional and grounded in nature with Yutori, where being inside created a sense of presence and creativity.
They brought this vision to Adelle Sanders, a Mangawhai-based architect who specialises in designing spaces that inspire, function, and resonate on a deeper level.
Adele designed the first Yutori Sauna, crafting a space of connection, a place to foster deeper bonds with community and place.
“Saunas are traditionally places for authentic conversation, and through this closeness, real connections form. It is a primal human need. People will come for the health benefits, but what they will leave with runs much deeper.”
— Adele Sanders, Architect, Yutori Sauna
Our Team
Louis Smith
Co-Founder
Louis is the co-owner of Black Swamp Dojo - a space in Mangawhai for movement practices, a sauna and ice experience, and now growing into a wellness hub.
He's drawn to beautiful, natural design and what it does for the human experience: how honest materials and well-made spaces help people slow down, settle, and feel more present.
More than anything, he's driven by community — creating spaces that bring people together and help Mangawhai connect and thrive.
Tom Robinson
Co-Founder
After a career in professional rugby, Tom became a certified yoga and meditation teacher and dedicated his work to building community around health and wellbeing.
His passion lies in creating experiences where people feel a deep sense of peace, joy and connection.
For Tom, Yutori Sauna is a space that brings people together to find joy in presence and connection.