Meet the Spa Team

Looking forward to welcoming you to the River Retreat!

Michelle van der Merwe – Spa Manager

It was in September 2009 that I started working in this piece of paradise known as Nkomazi Game Reserve. My passion for health & skincare started at an early age…. and so my studies began when I was only 16 years old.

My greatest satisfaction is to see my clients walking out of the retreat feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

I get my inspiration from the tranquil surroundings of what nature has to offer and I bring them to you in the form of exotic aromatic scents with natural herbal infusions to make sure that you have the best experience possible and feel like a new person by the time you leave the River Retreat.

Tania Weitsz – Spa Therapist and Duty Manager

People always asked me what I wanted to do with my life...  I never knew! As I got older I realized that I wanted to change lives by making people look and feel better about themselves!

I studied Somatology in Bloemfontein where I worked at a Laser and Beauty clinic. A few years later I became a team member of Carnival Cruise Lines where I worked in the Spa while traveling to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

After a year and a half filled with fun and adventures, I returned home and started working at Nkomazi as a Therapist in the River Retreat and also as a duty manager – this involves looking after guests and hosting them during meal times.

I am surrounded by Mother Nature every day and learning so much about all her secrets!

I am working with a great team, beautiful surroundings and I can still help people to relax and rejuvenate their minds, body and soul! I feel privileged!