If you’re a Newmarket resident scrolling through reformer pilates options, you’ve probably noticed most studios clustered around the CBD and inner suburbs. But here’s something worth considering: sometimes the best things aren’t right on your doorstep—and a quick 17km drive to Howick might just transform your entire pilates experience.
At Reformer Works, we’ve welcomed countless Newmarket locals who made the journey east and never looked back. Here’s why they reckon the drive is absolutely worth it.
The Journey: Easier Than You Think
Let’s address the elephant in the room first: yes, Howick is 17km from Newmarket’s bustling Broadway. But before you dismiss it as too far, consider this—it’s roughly a 20-minute drive outside peak hours via the Southern Motorway and Pakuranga Highway. That’s less time than you’d spend circling Westfield Newmarket car park on a Saturday afternoon.
Many of our Newmarket members time their classes around their workday. Pop in for a 6:30am session before heading into the office, or unwind with an evening class on your way home. The drive along the motorway is straightforward, and once you arrive, you’ll find something that’s become increasingly rare in Auckland’s inner suburbs: ample free parking right outside the studio.
No meters. No time limits. No stress.
What Makes Reformer Works Different
Newmarket is synonymous with premium shopping and upscale lifestyle choices—from the luxury brands at Westfield to the boutique cafés lining Broadway. If you’re accustomed to quality, you’ll appreciate what sets our Howick studio apart.
Specialist Instructors Who Actually Know Their Craft
Our team isn’t just certified—they’re passionate practitioners with serious credentials. Take Theresa, who completed the prestigious BASI Legacy programme (Mentor, Master 1, Master 2, and Honours levels) and specialises in scoliosis, osteoporosis, and injury rehabilitation. Or Michelle, who brings over 20 years of pilates expertise to every session.
When you’re investing in your body, you want instructors who understand biomechanics, who can spot a misalignment from across the room, and who know how to modify exercises for your specific needs. That’s standard at Reformer Works, not an exception.
Five Distinct Class Styles (Not Just “Beginner” and “Advanced”)
Here’s where many pilates studios fall short: they offer generic classes that try to be everything to everyone. At Reformer Works, we’ve developed five distinct class formats:
Beginner Classes focus on fundamentals—proper form, controlled breathing, and building that crucial mind-body connection. Perfect if you’re new to reformer pilates or returning after a break.
Intermediate Classes increase intensity with heavier spring tension and complex movement progressions that challenge your balance, control, and endurance.
Hybrid Classes incorporate jump boards for cardiovascular work alongside traditional reformer exercises. Think of it as your HIIT workout meets pilates precision—you’ll boost your metabolism whilst strengthening every muscle group.
Sculpt Classes bringing your gym workout to the reformer, with heavier springs, less reps more sets – ideal for getting strong, improving bone density and helping with menopause symptoms.
Private Sessions offer completely personalised attention for up to two people. Many Newmarket professionals choose privates for the flexibility and bespoke programming—whether you’re recovering from injury, training for a specific goal, or simply prefer one-on-one instruction.
This variety means your pilates practice can evolve with you. Start with beginner classes, progress to intermediate, add in a sculpt session for extra challenge, then recover with a private focused on mobility. You’re never stuck in a one-size-fits-all approach.
New Zealand-Made Equipment in a Purpose-Built Studio
We use Freedom Pilates reformer beds—premium, NZ-made machines that are properly maintained and calibrated. The difference between quality equipment and budget reformers is palpable. Smooth carriage glides, consistent spring tension, and sturdy construction mean you can focus on your form rather than fighting dodgy equipment.
Our studio also features jump boards, magic rings, pilates balls, dumbbells, and balance bars—all the props needed for varied, effective workouts. Plus, we’ve just added an infrared red light therapy sauna for post-class recovery and relaxation.
The space itself is designed for movement. With 15 reformer beds and a thoughtful layout, classes never feel cramped. High ceilings, natural light, and a calming aesthetic create an environment where you can genuinely switch off from the outside world.
The Pricing: Transparent and Fair
Let’s talk numbers, because if you’re comparing studios, you need the full picture.
Pricing
- Intro Offer: $50
- Casual Classes: $35
- 3 Classes: $80
- 5 Classes: $150
- 10 Classes: $240
- Private Classes: $120
- Private Sessions: $500
- The Works Membership: $240
- The Flexible Membership: $28
- The Essential Membership: $56
- The Unlimited Membership: $56
All class packs work for any class type—beginner, intermediate, hybrid, or sculpt—giving you flexibility to try different formats.
Private Sessions
Pricing available on request—these are completely customised to your goals, so cost depends on your specific programme.
Compare this to inner-city studios where you’re often paying premium rates for cramped spaces, overbooked classes, and instructors who are rushed off their feet. At Reformer Works, your dollar goes further because our overheads are lower and we can focus investment where it matters: equipment, instruction, and your experience.
Why Newmarket Locals Keep Coming Back
We asked some of our Newmarket members what keeps them making the drive. Here’s what they told us:
“I tried three studios closer to home first,” says Emma, a marketing exec who works near Broadway. “They were fine, but I never felt like the instructors really saw me. At Reformer Works, I get corrections, encouragement, and genuine progression tracking. The drive is nothing compared to the quality difference.”
James, a property developer from Remuera (just south of Newmarket), appreciates the hybrid classes: “I was getting bored with gym workouts but didn’t want to lose the intensity. The jump board classes give me that cardiovascular hit whilst building functional strength. Plus, I’m in and out in an hour, parking is easy, and I actually look forward to it.”
Sophie, a busy mum of two, values the community aspect: “Newmarket can feel a bit transient—everyone’s rushing through. At Reformer Works, I’ve met people I genuinely connect with. There’s a supportive vibe that makes showing up easier, even on days when I’m knackered.”
The Howick Advantage: More Than Just Pilates
Whilst you’re in Howick, you might as well make the most of it. The village has excellent cafés for a post-class coffee, a farmers market on Saturday, Wild Wheat is right next door with amazing pastries, bread and coffee , and that beachside lifestyle vibe that’s increasingly rare in Auckland’s built-up suburbs.
Many of our Newmarket members combine their class with a coastal walk or stop by the Howick shops. It transforms your workout from a chore into a mini wellness retreat—you’re not just exercising, you’re taking proper time for yourself away from the Newmarket hustle.
Getting Started: Your First Class
Ready to see what the journey’s all about? Here’s how to start:
- Download the Reformer Works App
- Book Your First Class: Browse our timetable and choose a beginner session that fits your schedule. We run classes 7 days a week, starting from 5:45 am.
- Arrive 10 Minutes Early: This gives you time to park (stress-free, remember?), meet your instructor, and get familiar with the reformer bed.
- Wear Comfortable Workout Gear: Leggings or shorts and a fitted top work best. We provide grip socks if you don’t have your own.
- Bring Grip Socks – or buy a pair at the studio
- Communicate: Let your instructor know if you have any injuries, concerns, or specific goals. This isn’t a packed CBD class where you’re just a number—we genuinely want to know how to help you.
- Try a Few Different Formats: Your first class might be beginner level, but don’t be afraid to explore intermediate or hybrid classes once you’ve got the basics down.
The Bigger Picture: Investing in Yourself
Here’s the thing about wellness: convenience isn’t always king. The closest pilates studio might save you 15 minutes, but if the classes are mediocre, the equipment subpar, or the instruction uninspiring, what have you actually saved?
Your body deserves proper attention. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, recover from injury, or simply move with more ease through daily life, the quality of your pilates practice matters enormously.
That 17km drive from Newmarket to Howick? It’s not a barrier—it’s a commitment to doing things properly. It’s choosing expertise over proximity, quality over convenience, and results over tick-box exercise.
Health Benefits Worth the Journey
Reformer pilates at Reformer Works offers benefits that extend far beyond the studio:
- Core Strength and Stability: The foundation for every movement you make, from carrying shopping bags up Broadway to maintaining posture during long work meetings.
- Improved Flexibility and Mobility: Particularly valuable as we age—keeping joints healthy and maintaining range of motion prevents injury and keeps you active.
- Postural Improvements: Hours at a desk (looking at you, Newmarket office workers) wreak havoc on alignment. Reformer pilates retrains your body to sit, stand, and move correctly.
- Mental Wellbeing: The focused, mindful nature of pilates naturally reduces stress and anxiety. It’s moving meditation with measurable physical results.
- Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Whether you’re managing a dodgy back, recovering from surgery, or preventing future problems, our instructors’ expertise in pathologies means you’re in safe hands.
For Busy Professionals: Making It Work
We get it—Newmarket’s demographic skews professional, time-poor, and goal-oriented. You’re weighing up whether adding 20 minutes to your commute is feasible. Here’s how our members make it work:
Early Birds: The 5:45 am slot is popular with Newmarket professionals. Class finishes at 7:30am, you’re back on the motorway by 7:45am, and at your desk by 8:15am—before most of your colleagues have finished their second coffee.
Lunchtime Warriors: If you’re working from home (increasingly common in Newmarket’s tech and finance sectors), midday classes provide a proper break. You’ll be more productive in the afternoon than if you’d powered through.
Weekend Options: Saturday and Sunday classes let you maintain consistency without work schedule constraints. Make it a ritual—class, coffee, weekly shop at the Howick markets.
The Community Factor
One unexpected benefit our Newmarket members mention: the sense of community. Westfield might have luxury brands and slick marketing, but there’s something refreshing about driving 20 minutes to a studio where people actually know your name.
At Reformer Works, you’ll recognise faces, celebrate each other’s progress, and build genuine connections. It’s the antidote to anonymous gym culture. This community aspect is what transforms exercise from obligation to genuine self-care.
Addressing Common Concerns
“What if I try it and don’t like the drive?” Start with a casual class ($36) or 5-class pack ($132) rather than committing to a subscription. Most people find the drive becomes automatic after 2-3 visits.
“I’m a complete beginner—will I be out of my depth?” Absolutely not. Our beginner classes are designed for people who’ve never seen a reformer bed before. The instructors excel at making newcomers feel comfortable and capable.
“What about parking?” Free and plentiful, right outside the studio. This alone saves you money compared to CBD or Newmarket parking rates.
“Can I bring a friend?” Yes! Private sessions accommodate two people, or you can book into the same group class. Many Newmarket locals make it a social activity—better than cocktails for your wellbeing.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
The question isn’t whether the drive from Newmarket to Howick is worth it. The question is: what’s quality pilates instruction, premium equipment, genuine personal attention, and real results worth to you?
If you’re the kind of person who chooses Newmarket for its quality lifestyle offerings—if you shop at Westfield rather than discount malls, if you invest in good coffee and premium groceries—then you already understand that quality matters. Your pilates practice deserves the same standard.
Book your first class and discover why Newmarket residents are making the journey east. Try a beginner session, experience the difference quality instruction makes, and see if the 17km drive becomes your favourite part of the weekly routine.
Your body will thank you for it.
