Information – Hanmer Springs Hot Springs / Pools
Hanmer Springs – the real New Zealand – 90 minutes north of Christchurch.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve has seven open air thermal pools, three sulphur pools, four private thermal pools, sauna and steam rooms, a freshwater heated pool, a large family activity pool with two waterslides, picnic area and licensed café.
At Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa you can unwind the way you want to: from relaxing in the natural environment of our thermal pools, to splashing your way through some serious waterslide fun.
Unwind in one of our many thermal mineral pools, surrounded by native landscaping. The thermal waters contain a wide variety of minerals including sulphur, sodium chloride, calcium, carbonates, magnesium, potassium and others. Our waters are reported to offer great relief to those suffering from arthritis and similar ailments.
Rock Pools
There are four large outdoor rock pools. The thermal water is regulated to 38 degrees Celsius. The four rock pools are interconnected with thermal streams. This water is treated – but only minimally, otherwise thermal water from the bore would be unpleasant to bathe in.
Rainbow Pools
The Rainbow Pool is one of our new rock pools. The thermal water is approximately 36-37 degrees Celsius. There are a number of thermal water spouts for you to relax under to soothe your neck and shoulders. In the evening the pool lights up with a rainbow of colours created through fibre optic lighting.
Sulphur Pools
The three sulphur pools are completely natural, containing no chlorine. The water in these pools has a wonderful soft and silky feel to it. The temperature ranges from 40 – 42 degrees Celsius.
Hexagonal Pools
These three large concrete hexagonal pools remain very popular with visitors. The temperature of these pools ranges from 38-40 degrees Celsius.
Family Activity Area & Waterslide
A separate area where the young and young-at-heart can enjoy the waterfalls, animal slides and heated waterslides.
Private Thermal Pools
Six private indoor thermal pools. These private pools contain their own shower and changing area and vary between 39 – 40 degrees Celsius. They can be booked out for 1/2 – 1 hour periods for a minimum of 2 persons and maximum of 6 persons.
Private Sauna & Steam Rooms
For ultimate indulgence try one of our private sauna or steam rooms. These rooms contain their own shower and changing area. They can be booked out for 1/2 – 1 hour periods.
Other Facilities
• 25 metre freshwater heated pool
• Picnic area and Gardenhouse Cafe with bar facilities
• Massage and beauty treatments at our stunning new Spa
• Disabled facilities including an aqualift and stainless steel wheelchair for our beach access pool
• Coin operated lockers
• Towel & Swimsuit hire
This year over 475,000 people will visit the reserve, 20% of whom will come from the international market. Of the visitors from within New Zealand, 87% will be from the Canterbury region.
The Thermal Reserve enjoys a growing international reputation, with patronage from Australia up 40%, the UK/Europe market up 20%, and Asia/Japan up 100% in the past year.
The market growth is also being reflected in improved financial returns. Yield per customer has grown over 10% over the last three years and EBIT has grown by over 32% over the same period.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is owned by the Hurunui District Council and controlled by an experienced management team, which reports to a committee.
Profits from the Reserve not reinvested in the operation are returned to the Hurunui District Council and invested in the physical reserves of the wider Hurunui District.
Over the past 12 months, Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve has hosted 270 school groups. Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is currently developing an education programme that can be used within the New Zealand primary school curriculum.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is the second largest employer in the community, employing an equivalent of 28 full time staff. Thermal Reserve staff are provided with full training covering lifeguard, first aid and professional development.
Introduction | Opening times and prices | History | The Thermal Reserve | Tourism | Environment | Community | Fact Sheet | Management