Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre

The basics

Along with spending time in the hot springs that give the town its name, many people come to Hanmer Springs to hike or ski, go mountain biking or white-water rafting, and enjoy the mountain landscapes. The Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre is a handy place to go when you arrive in town, as you can gather a lot of information here, and plan your outings.

Things to know before you go

• The center provides information and bookings free of charge.

• You can rent a variety of different mountain bikes, including e-bikes, from the center. Trail maps are also available.

• Book other activities here, including archery, bungy jumping, laser clay shooting, jet boating, and ATV adventures.

• If you’re camping or staying somewhere with outdoor space, you can rent backyard games from the center, too.

How to get there

Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre is right in the middle of town, and bikes and quadricycles are usually lined up outside. It’s on Conical Hill Road, a short walk north of the Thermal Pools. Hanmer Springs is about a 1.5-hour drive north of Christchurch, and about a 4-hour drive south of Nelson.

When to get there

The center is open daily from early morning to late afternoon; it’s closed December 25–26. Since Hanmer Springs is a popular destination during other holidays, such as Labour Weekend in October, the center typically remains open.

Family-friendly attractions in Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is an ideal family destination, however old your kids are or what they’re into. Along with the offerings at Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre and the Thermal Springs, families should check out the Hanmer Springs Animal Park, the Fairy Door Walk in the Dog Stream Reserve, and the Forest Amble Sculpture Walk in the Hanmer Heritage Forest.