Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is best known for its natural hot springs and geothermal pools. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa complex has 22 outdoor pools ranging from 28°C to 42°C, four hydroslides, and a luxury spa. Beyond the pools, the alpine village offers forest walks through native beech woodland, adventure activities at Thrillseekers Canyon (bungy jumping, jet boating, rafting), skiing at two nearby club fields, mountain biking trails, and a thriving dining scene with over 20 restaurants.

Hanmer Springs is approximately 130 kilometres (80 miles) north of Christchurch, about a 90-minute drive via State Highway 7 through the Waiau River valley. Daily shuttle services are also available from Christchurch via Hanmer Connection. Christchurch International Airport is the nearest major airport.

Hanmer Springs is a year-round destination. Summer (December–February, 18–28°C) is best for adventure activities, cycling and forest walks. Winter (June–August, 1–10°C) is ideal for skiing and soaking in steaming pools with snow on the surrounding peaks. Spring and autumn offer quieter trails, lower prices, and beautiful scenery. The thermal pools are open 365 days a year.

The top things to do in Hanmer Springs include: (1) soaking in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, (2) bungy jumping, jet boating, or rafting at Thrillseekers Canyon, (3) walking to the Conical Hill lookout for panoramic views, (4) mountain biking on forest singletrack, (5) skiing at Hanmer Springs Ski Area or Mt Lyford in winter, (6) driving the Molesworth Station or Jollies Pass 4WD routes, (7) visiting Lake Tennyson for fishing and stargazing, and (8) dining at one of the village's 20+ restaurants ranging from fine dining to craft breweries.

Hanmer Springs has over 20 dining options. For fine dining, try No. 31 (contemporary NZ cuisine, locally foraged ingredients) or MK Restaurant at Heritage Hotel. For casual gastro-fare, Saints Pizzeria & Bar or Tease Robo Cafe Bar are popular. Monteith's Brewery Bar and The Gateway Tavern serve craft beer and pub meals. Daytime visitors love Powerhouse Cafe, the Hanmer Springs Bakery, and the Log Cabin Cafe. For takeaway, Indian Springs Coriander Leaf, La Mia Pizza, Petrah Souvlaki, Som Tam Thai, and Spice Village offer global flavours. See our full dining guide for all 20 venues.

General admission to Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is approximately NZ$30 for adults and NZ$15 for children (ages 3–15). Family passes are available. Prices may vary seasonally — check the official Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools website for current pricing. Private pools and spa treatments are available at additional cost.