Inside Auckland’s newest wellness collective, Kenkō Studios
Kenkō means health; to embody a lifestyle of wellbeing and longevity. Found in an unassuming central Auckland oasis, Kenkō Studios is the newest movement studio on the scene. Blending tradition with modernity, Kenkō Studios is a community-focused wellness collective that fosters an environment committed to holistic health. Through their offerings of yoga, pilates, meditation, sound baths, and other enticing rituals, the experienced practitioners of Kenkō are dedicated to helping people nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Remix sat down with Kenkō Studios’ Founder and Curator, Jess Hunt, to learn more about the growing wellness collective that continues to platform wellbeing professionals, and students alike.
Image Credit: Maegan McDowell
First things first, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I'm Jess. I'm the owner and curator of Kenkō Studios. Before Kenkō, I worked as a Hair & Makeup Artist in Film and TV. Jobs that I worked on were Our Flag Means Death, Disney’s Zombies, a Kiwi film called Loop Track, and a Netflix series called One of Us is Lying. I loved the industry—very fun, very creative, and amazing people. But it was long hours, no self-care, and no time for exercise. I got to a point where I wanted more of a lifestyle change, something that truly prioritised wellness and balance. I’d been putting my own wellbeing last for too long, and I knew whatever came next needed to reflect what really mattered.
Image Credit: Maegan McDowell
What inspired you to create a wellness collective like Kenkō?
I’ve always been drawn to wellness, it’s something that’s quietly shaped my life for over a decade. I’ve worked with a naturopath, practiced Pilates and yoga, and always come back to something my Nana used to say, “Your health is the most important thing in your life.” Kenkō happened very serendipitous, living across the road, finding this beautiful building. The landlord shared a similar vision, he wanted it to stay a studio and had even renovated it with that in mind. Everything just fell into place.
Image Credit: Jason Barnes
How would you describe Kenkō Studios to someone who may have never heard of it?
Kenkō Studios is more than just a studio, it’s a wellness collective dedicated to nurturing your whole self. We offer yoga, Pilates, and mindful movement to support both physical strength and mental clarity, alongside practices like breathwork, sound baths, and other restorative experiences. It's a very community-focused space so people can come and be themselves, relax, and feel like it's a second home. The most common thing I hear that people say when they come and practice here, is how much they love the vibe, the atmosphere, and how welcoming the space is. Even though we’ve created this beautiful space, we have made it affordable and accessible for people. Another thing that sets us apart is our profit-share model for teachers. While not all teachers choose this option, and I'm proud to say those who do have been killing it! This approach flips the traditional studio model, giving teachers more opportunity to grow their personal business while also supporting the studio’s growth.
Image Credit: Maegan McDowell
The building in which Kenkō is situated has quite the story behind it. Can you tell us a bit about its history?
Rod Snodgrass purchased the building last year, and it was renovated in a Japandi (Japanese - Scandinavian) style.The amazing Jade Hurst of Good Space did the interior design. She has a very thoughtful and holistic approach to interior design that lends itself well to the Kenkō wellness ethos. The Kenkō building was constructed in 1982 by renowned Tai Chi master Patrick Kelly, specifically designed as a dedicated Tai Chi studio. The iconic Kenkō staircase was meticulously handcrafted by Patrick and his students, who thoughtfully laid each step individually, meditating between each one as it was set.
Image Credit: Jason Barnes
What is your vision for the future of Kenkō?
I'm still taking every day as it comes and celebrating the wins. We want to continue cultivating the warm and welcoming atmosphere that our community loves, making the studio a true sanctuary where everyone, students and teachers alike can fully be themselves. Kenkō is evolving into a vibrant wellness collective, with practitioners and small businesses joining our space, including a chiropractor, a holistic facialist, and a massage therapist. We also offer on-site accommodation available on Airbnb. Next week we even have a group coming for a girls’ trip, where they'll be enjoying daily pilates. It feels like one of those full circle moments, and a glimpse of what this space might continue to grow into.
Image Credit: Maegan McDowell
What does your community have to say about Kenkō?
"There’s something really special about Kenkō. The space itself is so beautiful and peaceful, but it’s the community that makes it feel like home. Everyone is so kind and supportive, it’s honestly such a joy and privilege to teach there."
- Taina Gavelle, Pilates Teacher
"I absolutely love teaching Breathwork at Kenkō - it’s like stepping into an oasis where the energy is alive and magnetic! The space is warm and vibrant, and each class feels like an uplifting gathering of incredible humans. There’s something really special about the community of practitioners and attendees here; we're all grounded in a shared love for holistic wellbeing.”
- Hailey Fuertes, Breathwork Practitioner
“I feel truly honoured to hold space at Kenkō Studios. From the moment you arrive, there’s a calming energy, as if you’ve left the busy city behind and stepped into a peaceful sanctuary. Many students say it feels like being transported to somewhere warm, exotic, and tropical. Teaching here feels easeful and supported. Jess has created something really special, a space that is welcoming, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed for both teachers and students. It’s a privilege to be part of this community and to witness the healing that happens here.”
- Jess Pearson, Sound Therapist and Reiki Practitioner
“Kenkō is a nest for the soul, with a modern structure - supporting practitioners for growth, community building and authentic offerings”
- Iris Bellve, Meditation and Reiki Practitioner
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