What Makes a Genuine Finnish Sauna?
A Comparison with Chinese Saunas in New Zealand
If you’re shopping for a sauna in New Zealand, you’ve probably noticed a wide range of options, from sleek indoor boxes to infrared cabins, prefab models, and full custom builds. But not all saunas are created equal.
At Sauna People, we specialise in genuine Finnish saunas, purpose-built to honour the traditional sauna experience. These are not like many of the Chinese-built prefab saunas on the market. Below, we break down the key differences across critical features like construction, heat performance, airflow, and authenticity.
Sauna Feature Comparison
| Feature |
Sauna People (Authentic Finnish Sauna) |
Chinese Saunas |
| Wall Construction |
Solid timber walls inside and out, 72mm thick with internal cavity. Designed for superior insulation and structure. Quicker heat-up times and more efficient energy use. |
Thin prefabricated panels, often using Hemlock or soft Cedar. Not ideal for high-heat traditional sauna use. |
| Indoor/Outdoor Use |
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use (optional roof required for outdoor installations). |
Generally indoor only, or limited to specific barrel models. |
| Insulation |
Glass-based wool insulation with foil-backed vapour barrier. Designed for heat retention and safety. |
Some use foam or plastic-based insulation, many are converted infrared cabins retrofitted with sauna heaters, Some use foam or plastic-based insulation, many are converted infrared cabins retrofitted with sauna heaters, which can off-gas when heated. |
| Heater Compatibility |
Compatible with SAWO stone-filled Finnish heaters (3.5–21kW). Full stainless-steel construction ensures durability. |
Typically supplied with a basic 3.5kW Harvia heater. Zincalume or lower-spec steel inner shells. |
| Bench Design |
Traditional 2-tier benches allow you to sit higher in the heat zone for full-body warmth. No “cold toes”. |
Single-tier or ergonomic seating with limited elevation. Poor heat distribution. |
| Ventilation System |
Authentic Finnish ventilation system with air inlet, outlet, and ceiling vent for convection, pressure relief, and drying. |
Ventilation often not included or minimally designed, may lack airflow loop. |
| Ceiling Height & Air Volume |
Upright walls and generous ceiling height allow you to sit tall and breathe easily. Maintains good oxygen levels and thermal layering. |
Typically low ceiling heights (195-200cm). Limited air volume and reduced oxygen comfort. |
| Authenticity |
These are genuine Finnish saunas built for performance, comfort, and tradition. Every element, timber, heat flow, posture, and air is all intentional. |
Styled to look Finnish, but most lack proper heat dynamics, venting, insulation, or structure. Often infrared cabins with added heaters. |
Why It Matters
Many Chinese saunas look appealing at first glance, but when it comes to authentic Finnish sauna design, the difference is in the detail, especially insulation, airflow, and posture support.
Sauna People builds saunas for New Zealand conditions using proven Finnish methods, for real performance and a healthier, more enjoyable experience.
Talk to the Experts
Want your own traditional sauna? Contact Sauna People.
We’ve been importing and custom-building Finnish saunas in New Zealand since 1992.
sales@sauna.co.nz
(09) 415 6655
