Beyond the frost

Warm your body and soul at these essential hot spots

Polynesian Spa, Rotorua

This iconic Rotorua destination has been a well-loved spot for both locals and visitors alike for more than 50 years.

Has winter got you feeling a bit blue? Why not warm your bones in one of our region’s many amazing hot pools! These natural hot springs and spas are the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and forget about the cold, dreary weather. Whether you’re wanting a quick splash or a full spa treatment, these geothermal escapes are sure to warm the cockles of your heart.

Locals know winter is a perfect time to visit, when you can enjoy serene wintery views across Sulphur Bay on Lake Rotorua while staying warm in the geothermal waters. Let all your worries soak away in their 28 hot mineral pools, fed by two different geothermal springs.

The heritage-protected Priest Spring features acidic water historically known for relieving tired muscles, aches, and pains, while the alkaline waters of the Rachel Spring offer the antiseptic action of sodium silicate, which nourishes the skin. Make a day of it with a luxurious spa treatment or book a dual massage and soak in one of their private hot pools afterward.

Planning a winter group experience such as a family getaway, business retreat, or special celebration? Take advantage of their spacious wellness sanctuary and tailor a unique experience with options including yoga classes, mindfulness and wellness workshops, catered lunch and more. There’s also an onsite café serving smoothies and tasty snacks, and a retail shop stocked with quality gifts and skincare products.

Wairakei Terraces, Taupō

Nestled in the Waiora valley at Wairakei, and situated alongside the Wairakei Geothermal Steamfield, are the first ever man-made silica terraces. Mineral-enriched water, drawn from 2.5-kilometre depths underground, cascades over the terraces into four outdoor bathing pools, each with a different temperature to suit everyone.

The striking blue and silky waters will warm your body to the core, while nourishing and moisturising your skin and revitalising your mind, body, and soul. For a complete holistic experience, include a relaxing massage, using their own gentle, natural oil blends made from nutrient-rich NZ native plants.

Take a moment to experience a sense of history and reflect on how, hundreds of years ago, Māori used pools in these natural settings for healing. From the turn of the 20th century, visitors from all over the world have also come here to "take the waters," testifying to its curative and therapeutic effects.

Secret Spot Hot Tubs, Rotorua

The secret is out about these secluded hot tubs, nestled beside the breath-taking Whakarewarewa Forest. Soak in your own spring-fed cedar hot tub, surrounded by native ferns. There are large umbrellas over the hot tubs providing shelter, and if you go at night, you’ll soak in a magical illuminated setting complete with outdoor campfires.

Take relaxation to the next level with their delicious range of craft beer, cider, and steaming mulled wine delivered directly to your hot tub at the push of a button. Experience live music on Saturday afternoons, try their delicious smash burgers, fries, and street food from BaseCamp kitchen, or enjoy a Shinny Dip foot hot tub – free with any drinks purchase. Secret Spot handily provide free lockers and drinking water for use during your visit. If you’ve got a special event in the pipeline, BaseCamp is available to book for mid-week functions as well.

Polynesian Spa, Rotorua 1000 Hinemoa Street, Lakeside, Rotorua 3010 polynesianspa.co.nz

Wairakei Terraces, Taupō 671 Wairakei Drive, Wairakei, Taupō 3377 wairakeiterraces.co.nz

Secret Spot Hot Tubs, Rotorua 13/33 Waipa State Mill Road, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3073 secretspot.nz