Something for everyone in Hanmer Springs

If you're after pure relaxation with the opportunity for intoxicating exhilaration, Hanmer Springs is the ultimate escape.

HANMER SAYS ENJOY!

Sculptures in Hanmer Heritage Forest

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

This serene alpine village is a haven for recreation, whether that’s melting into a soothing spa pool, or charging up Conical Hill in pursuit of impressive views. There are countless ways to cover the terrain. Try mountain biking, river canoeing and horse riding – or rely on the power of your own two feet! The town’s surrounding mountains provide idyllic walking trails in summer, and powder-rich ski slopes during winter. Kids love to discover the sculptures in Hanmer Heritage Forest, and foodies can indulge on anything from Canterbury lamb to feijoa fudge from The Decadent Fudge Company. For vista-junkies, arriving here via the Lewis Pass won’t disappoint. The jaw-dropping scenery is worthy of a coffee table photo book.

Hanmer Springs pool fun © Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools

HANMER SPRINGS: MELLOW OR MAXED OUT?

Hanmer Springs is the perfect chill out, whether you relax actively or idly…

ACTIVE RELAXERS:

Bounce along the Waiau River as part of a 2.5-hour white-water rafting experience. Suitable for everyone – including children – with guides to help navigate. If you dare peel your eyes away from the rapids, look up to absorb the beautiful mountainous backdrop.

PASSIVE RELAXERS:

Unwind and indulge at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, a multiple New Zealand Tourism award winner with open-air thermal pools, a LazyRiver, the SuperBowl waterslide, and more.

BACKCOUNTRY ROAD TRIPS

GET OUT INTO TRUE NEW ZEALAND BACKCOUNTRY BY TRAVELLING ALONG ONE OF THESE TWO REMOTE ROUTES

MOLESWORTH STATION: Located behind the inland Kaikōura mountains, driving on the roads through this station is a unique and isolated high country experience. Pass craggy scree-scarred mountains, wide river valleys and tussock slopes.

Molesworth Station © Department of Conservation

RAINBOW STATION: Wilderness driving at its very best. Cross private land between St Arnaud and Hanmer Springs while also passing through the leasehold land of Rainbow Station.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

• There’s no mobile phone coverage or petrol stations

• Can be toured by four-wheel drive or mountain bike, but if you’re biking, please check with the visitor centre first

• Open to the public from late December to the end of March (dependent on summer fire risk)

• Access can be obtained outside this period with permission from station owners

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz