Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Tekapo Springs features three beautifully tiered hot pools shaped like the region's distinctive glacial lakes, overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb mountain range. The pure alpine water is drawn from a local underground source and heated cleanly to varying therapeutic temperatures. The site functions as a multi-use winter and summer recreation park, offering an aqua play area, day spa, glice skating rink, and tube rapids. Located inside the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it is highly famous for its evening stargazing soaking tours where visitors float on mats while learning about astronomy. The facilities are highly modern and completely accessible with well-maintained changing zones.

Maruia Hot Springs is a tranquil, Japanese-style eco-resort located in the scenic Lewis Pass national reserve along the Maruia River. The mineral-rich waters flow directly from subterranean paths into open-air rock pools, indoor bathhouses, and thermal steam rooms. The water is heavy in sodium, bicarbonate, and natural boron, providing a remarkably slippery, skin-softening sensation that mimics traditional Onsen. The resort operates on 100 percent renewable hydro energy generated on-site, complementing its deep focus on wellness, nourishment, and environmental sustainability. Guests can soak while enjoying panoramic views of the rugged Southern Alps and native beech forests. Footpaths link the pools to saunas, cold plunges, and an organic restaurant. This property is fully accessible and includes overnight lodging options.

Welcome Flat Hot Springs provides a highly rugged, backcountry wilderness soaking experience located deep within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The naturally muddy pools sit on an alpine terrace surrounded by snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense native fern forests. The thermal water bubbles out from the earth, rich in minerals, accumulating in natural gravel-bottomed mud pools maintained by the Department of Conservation. Accessing this remote site requires a demanding, multi-hour wilderness tramp along the Copland Track, requiring river crossings and steep climbs. A modern Department of Conservation hut and campsite sit adjacent to the pools, which must be booked well in advance. Sandflies are incredibly prevalent here, so packing insect repellent is mandatory.