Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa

Natural thermal pools in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, open since 1883. There are more than 20 pools of different temperatures, including sulphur pools, rock pools and a lap pool, plus water slides and a lazy river for kids and a spa with massages and private pools.

The village is surrounded by forest and mountains, with walking and mountain-biking trails, jet boating and bungy jumping on the Waiau River at the Thrillseekers Canyon, and skiing at Hanmer Springs ski area in winter. It's a popular stop between Christchurch and the Lewis Pass or Kaikōura.