Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa

The pools attract solo guests, couples, and families. Mineral springs make skin silky-smooth, while sheltered rock pools are bordered by lush gardens with mountain views. There are also water slides and a heated swimming pool with a walk-in, beach-style entrance. Young visitors can splash around in the AquaPlay area, while kids and adults alike enjoy floating on the Lazy River. Visit independently or on a day trip from Christchurch.

• Bring swimwear and towels or rent them on-site.

• Changing rooms, showers, and secure lockers are available.

• There is wheelchair lift access, railing support, and ramp access to some pools as well as the changing rooms.

• Children under 8 years old must be supervised at all times.

• Wood-fired pizza and other meals are available for purchase, or pack a picnic.

• An assortment of lodging can be found in the alpine resort village.

Located 81 miles (131 kilometers) northwest of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is a 1.5-hour drive away via the Alpine Pacific Touring Route (APT). The springs are at the corner of Jacks Pass Road and Amuri Avenue. Bus service departs daily, one-way or round-trip, from the Canterbury Museum on Rolleston Avenue in Christchurch. Private shuttle service is also available.

The pools are open every day but Christmas Day, from 10am to 9pm. Skiing and ice skating are popular ways to enjoy the outdoors at Hanmer Springs in winter, while during warmer summer months hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking lure folks out of the warm pools.

Revitalizing in the thermal pools is perhaps best done after an exciting outdoor excursion. Combine your admission ticket with guided white-water rafting, quad bike riding, or bungy jumping. A jet boat tour takes passengers on a wild ride through Waiau Gorge and Thrillseekers Canyon, with transport from Christchurch included.