Thermal pools and spas

New Zealand's volcanic past and active geothermal areas have given rise to an abundance of natural thermal pools and a thriving spa culture. A day at the spa has been part of life in New Zealand for over 150 years and is a popular and relaxing way to spend time with friends and family.

There are hundreds of thermal pools and spas and among the more well known are;

Rotorua (Wanganui)

Rotorua is one of the world's most spectacular geothermal areas with a wide choice of thermal pools and spas for visitors. Among the more interesting is the Hell's Gate Spa where visitors can relax in naturally heated mud baths and sulphur pools.

Hanmer Springs (South Island)

The warm waters in the pools at Hanmer fell as rain 180 years ago, only to be heated by volcanic activity 2km underground before slowly rising to the surface again. This popular alpine spa resort with its large outdoor thermal pools is open all year round and has won many tourism awards.

Hot Water Beach (Coromandel Peninsula)

Dig your own spa on this famous and unique beach where hot water from an underground volcanic reservoir reaches the surface through the sands. At low tide locals and visitors dig their own thermal pools in the sand, adding seawater to cool the hot volcanic waters. Near Mercury Bay, just off State Highway 25 to Whenuakite.

Waiwera Spa (North Auckland)

Discovered in 1848 the hot waters of Waiwera were formally recognised as the Southern Hemisphere's first spa in 1863. Not only that but Waiwera's naturally heated thermal waters are thought to be 10,000-15,000 years old making them the oldest known waters in the world.