Ultimate winter escape in Hanmer Springs

Despite our best attempts to warm the globe unnaturally, it’s winter and it's bloody cold. It’s even worse for us living in the South Island where the desire to get out of bed in the morning is diminishing by the day. Sounds like a good excuse for a weekend away, and what better place to head in winter than Hanmer Springs. If you’re struggling to justify the trip, think of it as a reward for putting up with the dreary weather.

Hanmer Springs is only an hour and a half drive north of Christchurch and offers a wide range of fun and relaxing activities, most notably the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. The pools have been around for a long time and have undergone a number of changes in the last 10 years, including the introduction of waterslides for kids, more thermal pools and a new entrance. These new features go along with the ever popular rock and sulphur pools, private spas and general swimming pool.

The hot pools range in temperature from about 33 to 41 degrees celcius. The hottest can feel a little draining after too long?! But everyone has their own perfect temperature and there’s enough different pools for you to find the one that’s perfect for you. It’s a great feeling going from the near zero air temperatures to the warmth of the pools and you won’t be regretting your decision to go as you lay back and enjoy the stunning snow capped mountains that surround you. With steam rising from the pools through the cold air it makes for a picturesque setting and it’s even better if you’re lucky enough to be there when it’s snowing.