Hanmer Springs
Located on the South Island, Hanmer Springs is a quaint town approx two hours drive west from Kaikoura and north from Christchurch. The town is built around the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa which has a variety of therapeutic pools ranging in temperature from 28 – 42 degrees Celsius. The pools are fed from a geothermal bore making the water of a very high quality. There are 21 pools to choose from including 6 private pools and a sauna. The main pool is resort style with walk in, walk out beach, water slides and beautifully landscaped picnic area. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxing set against a backdrop of lush trees and mountain ranges. The complex has its own day spa specialising in massage therapy and offering a range of beauty therapies to delight the senses. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa are within walking distance of most places to stay which include a large range of motels, 5 camping grounds and a selection of hotels, bed and breakfasts and backpackers. There are 6 conference and function venues in the town. The Hanmer Springs Alpine Shopping Village is made up of high quality shops selling the best in jewellery, fashion, art and crafts and the tree lined main street offers some superb dining options from home style cafes through to late night fine dining.
Monteith’s Brewery Bar is opposite the Thermal Pools and in keeping with the town’s character is built with natural river stone and timber features. Relax beside the indoor or outdoor fireplace and sample the products on offer. Activities in Hanmer Springs include Bungy Jumping, Jet boating, Golf, Quad biking and Go Kart Safaris. Scenic flights operate from the local airport offering spectacular views over the mountains and rivers below. There is a ski field 40 minutes drive from Hanmer Springs which is run by the Amuri Ski Club (Inc) and popular with Snow Boarders. Skiing runs cater largely for Intermediates with groomed trails and large basins offering plenty of fun. The season generally runs from July to September. Families will enjoy the Wai ariki Animal Farm which is a hands on working farm with the chance to touch and feed the animals. Spread over two acres the farm includes a café with large decks to enjoy lunch while the children play with the animals. You can walk here from town. A daily shuttle bus runs from Hanmer Springs to Christchurch.