Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is a famous alpine geothermal complex in the Canterbury high country, about 90 minutes from Christchurch. Its naturally heated, mineral-rich water rises from around 173 metres below ground, emerging between roughly 32-40C after being filtered only by ancient rock, so the pools need no harsh chemical treatment.

Thermal & mineral pools

• Sulphur Pools (40-42C) - the hottest, silky, mineral-packed soak with no added chlorine
• Cascade Pools (37-42C), including a natural sulphur pool and beach-style entry, set among native gardens
• Hexagonal Pools (38-40C), the site's original 1978 pools with alpine views
• Rock Pools (34-36C), Rainbow Pools (36-38C) and adults-only AquaTherapy Pools (35-37C)
• A 10C cold plunge pool for contrast therapy

Play, spa & facilities

• Family Play Zone with hydroslides, a lazy river, activity pool and an AquaPlay zone for younger children
• Sauna and steam rooms in the adult Oasis Zone
• A day spa offering massage and facial treatments
• Tea Kiosk Cafe & Grill on site

Fed by rain and snowmelt from the surrounding Southern Alps, the water carries magnesium, calcium, silica and other naturally occurring minerals, giving the resort its long-standing reputation as a restorative alpine soak.