The village of Hanmer Springs is set amidst towering mountains just one and a half hours drive from Christchurch. Maori were first attracted to the area to enjoy the benefits of natural hot springs in the basin and in 1859 they were discovered by European explorers.
The Queen Mary Hospital built on the site used the healing waters to assist the recovery of soldiers returning from war and to treat arthritis and other ailments. Today recreational bathing is the main focus in the many public outdoor and private indoor pools.
Recommended visitor attractions and activities in Hanmer Springs
Visit the hot pools
Take a stroll around the village
Hire a cycle built for up to 6 people and pedal around the quiet streets
Hire a mountain bike or trek through hundreds of hectares of forest around the village
Go skiing or snowboarding in winter
Simply sit and take in the fresh alpine air as you watch the world go by
What's your preferred level of activity?
Action adventure Bungy jumping, white water rafting, jet boating, mountain biking on 40km of groomed tracks, skiing, snowboarding, quadbiking, off road go karting.
Moderate activities Horse trekking, 56km of walking tracks, cycling, waterslides in the hot pools complex, fishing, golf.
Relaxing activities Soak in the hot pools and have a sauna, massage or beauty treatment at the Spa, visit a local winery, nature park, scenic flights.
Children and young families Minigolf, maze, nature park with petting animals, picnic beside the Waiau River and watch the rafts and jet boats go by.
Tussock Peak
Corner Amuri Avenue and Leamington Street, Hanmer Springs
Superb motel accommodation in Hanmer Springs just across the road from the thermal hot pool complex. Stay here for self catering studio, 1 and 2 bedroom units...