Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is a Star Bath?

Accepted Answer

A handcrafted outdoor bath for fresh-water bathing under the open sky. No pumps, no chemicals, no noise. Just hot water, fresh air, and a place to reset. Same core design, finish and style it.

Question 2

How is it different from a spa or hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Much simpler. No pumps, no jets, no chemicals, no water sitting there between uses. No ongoing spa maintenance, no chemical balancing, no systems running in the background.

Question 3

What makes Star Baths different?

Accepted Answer

The ritual of outdoor bathing with fresh-water baths. Calm, simple, and special. Highly customisable.

Question 4

What are the different Star Bath options?

Accepted Answer

Three core options with the same bath design: Bare / Clad Yourself for those who want to finish or build the exterior themselves; Everyday / Built-In, a simple, clean option designed to integrate into your space; Clad, a fully finished bath in timber or painted architectural cladding. The bath always stays the same, just finished and styled differently.

Question 5

How many people fit in a Star Bath?

Accepted Answer

Two adults or four kids.

Question 6

What are the dimensions and weight?

Accepted Answer

2075mm (L) × 1080mm (W) × 735mm (H). Dry weight 165kg. Holds 220 litres with a total load of 500–520kg.

Question 7

What's it made from?

Accepted Answer

Handcrafted fibreglass bath shell with DuraGalv steel support frame, insulation, and fully enclosed weather-protected structure. Built for durability, simplicity, and long-term outdoor use.

Question 8

Does the bath stay warm?

Accepted Answer

Heat retention is excellent with high-grade New Zealand wool insulation. Built for the outdoors to hold warmth beautifully.

Question 9

Can I choose my own colour?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer a curated palette and any Resene colour, plus a range of stains for our timber cladding. The Everyday Bath has standard colour options.

Question 10

Can I use a Star Bath for Airbnb or guest accommodation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Star Baths are designed with Airbnb and guest stays in mind. Airbnb owners have been DIY-ing outdoor baths for years. We're the only company dedicated solely to outdoor baths, offering a bath purpose-built for the outdoors that guests will value and remember.

Question 11

Can I see a Star Bath in person?

Accepted Answer

You're very welcome to visit us in Raglan.

Question 12

Can you help me choose the best setup for my site?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We can help with placement, hot water, and drainage.

Question 13

What does the bath need to sit on?

Accepted Answer

A stable, level, non-settling base such as a concrete pad, engineered deck, compacted gravel base, or pavers on a properly prepared base.

Question 14

Can a Star Bath go on a deck?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as the deck can support the full loaded weight of 500–520kg when in use.

Question 15

How is the bath delivered?

Accepted Answer

As a complete, assembled unit.

Question 16

How many people does it take to move it?

Accepted Answer

Three people.

Question 17

Do you install my bath for me?

Accepted Answer

It's very simple to install. There are no electronics or complicated systems involved. You just need a base, water, and drainage sorted and you're sweet.

Question 18

Are Star Baths built for the outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, purpose-built for outdoor use. The materials, insulation, and construction are designed for New Zealand conditions and long-term outside use.

Question 19

How do I get hot water to my Star Bath?

Accepted Answer

There are a few ways: House mains (best when the bath is close to the house), Existing califont (when the bath is close to the califont), New dedicated califont, Portable califont, or Hose fill via an indoor mixer tap.

Question 20

How does the water actually enter the bath?

Accepted Answer

Two main options: Tapware (fixed taps for permanent setups) or Star Baths Freedom Fill (a removable hose-and-attachment system).

Question 21

What tapware can I use?

Accepted Answer

Any tapware where the spout is long enough to reach over the bath's wide edge. We have options for different styles and budgets. Star Baths Freedom Fill offers a simpler, more flexible setup.

Question 22

Do I need a plumber, electrician, or consent?

Accepted Answer

For permanent plumbing you'll need a plumber. An electrician is needed for a dedicated califont. Consent requirements depend on your setup.

Question 23

How does drainage work?

Accepted Answer

You need a proper drainage solution such as mains wastewater, on-site wastewater system, soak hole, or land disposal/garden irrigation.

Question 24

Can I drain it anywhere?

Accepted Answer

Not into stormwater drains or natural waterways.

Question 25

How much does a typical bath fill cost?

Accepted Answer

220 litres costs about $1 per bath. No ongoing costs, no standby power, no chemicals, no systems running.

Question 26

What's the best option if my bath is far from the house?

Accepted Answer

If it's a long way from the house, a dedicated califont provides hot water right where you need it.

Question 27

Can I use tank water or rainwater?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both work. You just need to heat the water.

Question 28

How often do I change the water?

Accepted Answer

Every time.

Question 29

Do Star Baths need chemicals or pumps?

Accepted Answer

No pumps, no systems, and no chemicals. Fresh water, every time.

Question 30

Can I use Epsom salts and essential oils?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, that's one of the benefits of our baths. Our favourite recipe is: Lots of Epsom salts, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 5 drops of pure lavender essential oil. It's amazing on your skin.

Question 31

Is the bath suitable for sensitive skin?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with fresh water every time, no chemicals, and no pumps.

Question 32

What are the health benefits of an outdoor bath?

Accepted Answer

Helps you slow down, warm up, and switch off. Benefits include relaxation, circulation, and better sleep by settling your nervous system. Similar benefits to hot water immersion and sauna use.

Question 33

How do I protect the bath from the sun and weather?

Accepted Answer

We offer two options: Eclipse Lid, which keeps the bath clean and protected; and Midnight Coverall, a tailored cover that goes over the lid.

Question 34

What additions can I add to my bath?

Accepted Answer

Bathside seating and storage, Retreat Tray, Eclipse Lid, and Midnight Coverall.

Question 35

What does the Eclipse Lid do?

Accepted Answer

The Eclipse Lid keeps the bath clean when not in use and can double as a table or seating.

Question 36

Can the bath be used year-round?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Built for outdoor use in all seasons. Year-round, warm in winter, cool and refreshing in summer.

Question 37

Do I need special cleaning products?

Accepted Answer

For general cleaning use washing detergent. For marks and stains use Simple Green. We also offer branded bottles.

Question 38

Do the baths come with a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Yes, warranty details are in our specs document.

Question 39

How do I order a Star Bath?

Accepted Answer

Check out our purchase guide for options, pricing, and next steps.

Question 40

What are your payment terms?

Accepted Answer

50% deposit and 50% due prior to delivery.

Question 41

How much is freight?

Accepted Answer

Freight depends on your location. We provide to-depot freight rates with $50 added, plus a $250 packaging and preparation fee. So your total freight cost is: Depot rate (+$50) + $250 packaging.

Question 42

What are your typical freight costs?

Accepted Answer

To-depot freight rates already include our $50 handling: Auckland approx. $130–$150, Tauranga approx. $130–$150, Hamilton approx. $130–$150, Wellington approx. $190–$210, Christchurch approx. $210–$230, Dunedin approx. $270–$300. Plus $250 for packaging and preparation.

Question 43

Why is there a packaging charge?

Accepted Answer

It's a large, fully assembled item that needs to be properly protected for transport.

Question 44

Can I get a freight quote before ordering?

Accepted Answer

Yes, just provide your location and we'll provide a freight cost.

Question 45

Is the bath delivered to my door?

Accepted Answer

It's delivered to the nearest Mainfreight depot.

Question 46

Can you organise delivery directly to my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can organise direct-to-site delivery. Additional charges will apply.

Question 47

What do I need to prepare before delivery?

Accepted Answer

Make sure the base is ready, access is clear, water system is sorted, and people are organised to move it.

Question 48

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer financing options.

Question 49

What if I'm not sure which setup is right for me?

Accepted Answer

We can talk it through with you to find the best option.

About Star Baths

Will it work at my place

Water, heating and drainage

Using and enjoying your Star Bath

Purchasing, warranty and delivery

Still wondering if it's right for you?

A small ritual,
a lasting memory