Eight years ago Sutaphat Chaloemdechaphak (Urai) opened her Mai Day Spa at 195 Ponsonby Road. It is now one of Auckland leading spas offering a variety of relaxing, authentic, Thai rejuvenating and beauty services.
New Zealanders have taken to going to spas over the last year, why do you think that is?
One of our most popular massage packages is the couples deep tissue and thai relaxation massages. This is the perfect time for couples and families to unwind, connect and it is lovely to see these same people walking out with smiles to enjoy the rest of their day. There is a lot of stress in the community we are pleased to offer our professional help.
What is the best thing about living and working in Ponsonby?
I like the exciting diversity and of course the great restaurants and shopping.
How did you survive the pandemic and has it changed your life?
During Covid we continued to deliver our services whilst strictly observing the rules and we were able to stay connected with our lovely customers and community.
Tell us what was your childhood like?
I grew up in Buri Ram in Northeast Thailand. This is know as the City of Happiness and we lived a simple farm life full of smiles and beautiful memories.
Complete the sentence: I will die happy if?
If my children and family and happy and strong from my lifetime of care.
Where in the world, would be your dream holiday?
I love to holiday in Hua Hin Thailand.
What’s on your bucket list?
I want to open another Mai Day Spa in NZ, probably in the South Island.
What is the most kiwi thing about you?
I like fish and chips? No seriously I love living here and am a proud member of the community.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I am happy with what I am doing now with my partner we will continue to manage this business.
What job would you do other than your own and why?
I love coffee, if I had my own coffee shop life would be good!
If you were reincarnated, what would you be?
A bird or a dog. I love their happiness and whenever I see them they make me happy too. No dog in Ponsonby can go past me without wanting to say hello.
How would you like to be remembered?
I am a kind and generous person with a good spirit and I care about other people.
What do you love most about your age?
I am stronger and more resilient.
Which item do you wish would come back into fashion?
90’s fashion, high boots, scarf tops, wedges (I am vertically challenged and my partner is tall).
Something that you really disapprove of?
I don’t like dishonesty, violence and theft.
What motivates you?
I love waking up and going to my spa – I am very proud of what my family and I have made.
Give your teenaged self some advice?
Finish school – unfortunately growing up in rural Thailand we didn’t have a lot and we couldn’t afford to finish school. I knew I was strong and had lots of ambition, I would say be focused upon your dreams and never give up on working for what you want most in life.
Which item of clothing can't you live without?
My warm jacket – I still feel the cold.
Your favourite place to holiday in New Zealand?
Queenstown.
A movie that really inspired you?
The pursuit of happiness.
What are you insecure about?
Sometimes my English – I have been here for a while but sometimes I struggle for the words and I get embarrassed. I always try my best.
What is your greatest fear?
Snakes.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction and why?
Spiderman was always fun to watch. He always captured the imagination of kids in our neighbourhood. It was some fun to watch.Better late than never – I am always on time.
Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person?
Our culture is restrained and it is rare to hug someone other than family. I am more comfortable with a handshake.
What is your comfort food?
Jasmine Rice.
How would your friends describe you in three words?
Kind, generous, spirited.
Do you travel light or heavy?
Always light.
If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?
Violence can never be tolerated. We must ensure it is never allowed to happen.
The best thing your parents taught you?
Be patient always.
Mai Day Spa, 195 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 218 2149 www.maidayspa.nz
