The Best Hot Pools on the South Island of New Zealand

When travelling the South Island of New Zealand, these hot pools have to be on your bucket list. The hot pools on the South Island of New Zealand are world class. While the North Island has more natural hot springs, the South Island has some luxurious spots with incredible scenery, perfect for you to enjoy whether you have just finished a hike, are looking for a romantic spot, or want a place for the entire family to enjoy.

You’d be a fool to not visit some of these spots while you’re travelling New Zealand.

We have loved touring around and enjoying some of the best outdoor hot pools in the world throughout our time in New Zealand. Hot pools are such an easy, relaxing and usually inexpensive activity that occupies a few hours.

In this article, we dive into some of the best hot springs in the South Island of New Zealand.

Table of Contents

The Best Hot Pools in the South Island of New Zealand

He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

New Brighton, Christchurch

How does sitting in 36-degree water with a view of the ocean sound?

The He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools were one of our first stops in Christchurch when we first arrived in New Zealand and it was awesome.

It was the perfect way to help get over the jet lag and to explore a fun area just outside Christchurch.

Features

Prices & Opening Times

Adult- $18-21 (off peak/ peak season prices)

Child- $13-16 (off peak/ peak season prices)

There are four sessions daily between 10am-5:30pm- bookings are essential so click here to book.

Adult Only sessions are at 8pm on Fridays.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools

Hamner Springs

Located in the quaint alpine village known as Hanmer Springs, the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools are possibly one of the most famous hot pools on the South Island.

All of the 22 different hot pools offer something unique, from adult only pools and spas to activity pools and slides. Temperatures range from 32 degrees to 42 degrees.

These outdoor hot pools on the South Island of New Zealand are perfect for all types of groups.

The Lazy River at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spas- one of the best outdoor hot pools on the South Island of New Zealand for all the family.

Features

Prices & Opening Times

Single Day Entry

Adult- $40

Child- $23

Same Day Return Entry

Adult- $48

Child- $27

Open 10am-7pm daily

Book Here

Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa

Methven

Methven quietly boasts of one of the most luxurious outdoor hot pools on the South Island.

The views here are really unparalleled here as you are treated to the Southern Alps. Sunset here is phenomenal!

Winners of the New Zealand Architecture Award 2022, the Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa have some of the most aesthetically pleasing pools on this list due to the design and elegance of the pools.

The pools here are split into two: Tranquility Pools and Discovery Pools. The Tranquility Pools are adult only, with a swim up bar and cozy spaces. The Discovery Pools are family friendly with a leap of faith, a lazy river and star lit caves.

One of the outdoor hot pools on the South Island of New Zealand- Methven Hot Pools.

Ben enjoying a drink in one of the best outdoor hot pools on the South Island of New Zealand- Ōpuke Hot Pools, Methven.

Features

Prices & Opening Times

Adult- $65 (Tranquility & Discovery Pools)

Child- $21 (Discovery Pool only)

Family of 4- $89 (Discovery Pool only)

Slots are 2-hours each.

We 100% recommend booking in advance to get the slot that you want here to avoid disappointment- sunset spots are extremely popular and they only allow a certain number of guests in.