Best Hot Pools in New Zealand
What could be more relaxing than floating back into a natural hot pool and gazing out upon beautiful scenery? As the temperature cools down throughout NZ, we’ve got our minds on warming ways to indulge and unwind while enjoying the fantastic natural landscape of Aotearoa.
We’re blessed with the best here, geothermal hot spots have allowed a multitude of stunning springs and hot pools to be formed in both the North and South Island.
Check out 5 of our best hot pools around New Zealand…
1. Onsen Hot Pools – Queenstown
Incredibly popular and for good reason! Onsen is perched up high overlooking the braiding waterways of the Shotover River and breath-taking alpine vistas.
An extra special treat when in Queenstown and the perfect respite after all the adventure the town has to offer, you’ll enjoy your own private cedar hot pool with a retracting roof and windows to bring the outdoors in and completely submerge you in your surroundings.
Make the most of the packages on offer and add some extra indulgence to your experience, with the addition of some champagne and Whittaker’s chocolate – how good! If you’re after some inspiration for slightly more adventurous pursuits, check out our top 13 things to do in Queenstown.
2. Kerosene Creek and Mud Pool – Rotorua
Having to embark on a bit of an adventure is all part of the attraction and fun of Kerosene Creek. After meandering through natiuve bush you’ll find this naturally occurring hot pool sitting next to a waterfall, totally encompassed by Mother Nature.
It’s hard to not feel truly zen as the thermal waters ease away any sore muscles and you take in the lush setting. There’s even a little corrugated iron ‘changing room’ (read: shed) perched alongside in true Kiwana fashion.
View our wide selection of Rotorua holiday homes here!
3. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Hanmer Springs
Tried and true – Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is the largest hot pool complex in New Zealand and well known for providing some serious relaxation.The complex offers a range of different pools differing in temperature.
There’s even water slides and lazy rivers for the kids to get amongst. It’s hard to beat this alpine setting especially when there’s been a snow fall – you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland as you soak away any worries! Keen to explore more of the area? Check out what to do and where to eat in Hanmer Springs.
If your ready to book your next holiday in the picturesque Hanmer Springs, view our wide ranging holiday houses here.
4. Polynesian Spa – Rotorua
Rotorua is the heart and soul of New Zealand’s geothermal offering. This upmarket spa offers 28 mineral pools to choose from, each overlooking Lake Rotorua to allow you to submerge yourself in the serenity.
Choose from private pools, the main public pools or a selection of luxury pools – all fed by two hot springs right in the heart of Rotorua. Minerals are said to have therapeutic qualities so we recommend allowing plenty of time to reap the benefits and simply sit back and relax.
You’ll leave here totally blissed out. Looking for more activities in this geothermal region? Find our guide on 8 epic things to do in Rotorua here!
5. Lake Tekapo Hot Pools – Lake Tekapo
Welcome to alpine heaven! Tekapo Springs are nestled in a truly spectacular setting, surrounded by lofty mountain views and perched right beside the azure blue waters of Lake Tekapo itself.
There are three main large pools to choose from, as well as other fun activities on site, such as ice skating and tubing, as well as an enormous water slide on offer in summer.
Tekapo Springs is definitely a destination for the whole family to enjoy, you’ll easily spend the best part of the day here
So there you have it, 5 of the best hot pools in New Zealand to enjoy this winter (or for anytime of the year for that matter!). Looking for somewhere to base yourself for all the fun? Check out our holiday homes and plan an epic adventure!
