Natural Hot Water Springs

Some people like to theme their New Zealand holidays; they may chase lighthouses, waterfalls or wineries. Well here’s a new theme that you’ve probably never thought of - geothermal hot pools.

The North Island of New Zealand is loaded with volcanoes, and hot pools are a very pleasant side effect of all this subterranean angst. In the South Island active fault lines create heat down below, so you’ll find hot pools where you least expect them. Some have been developed, which means you’ll need to pay admission. Others are still ‘wild’ and entirely free-of charge.

Here you will find a selection of commercial and wild hot pools, throughout New Zealand, described from north to south.

Great Barrier Island

East of Auckland in the farthest reaches of the Hauraki Gulf is Great Barrier Island, where you can hike to a magical free-of-charge hot pool experience deep in the forest. Just follow the Kaitoke Hot Springs walking track from Whangaparapara Road.

Te Aroha

Te Aroha Mineral Spas are located south of Auckland, beneath Mt Te Aroha. Modernised to resort standard, these pools retain the charm of the Edwardian era. A drinking fountain lets you ‘taste the waters’, which are believed to promote wellbeing (the fountain of youth?) and the town’s domain features the world’s only hot soda water geyser.

Coromandel

The Lost Spring near Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula harnesses crystal clear water that flows from a hot water spring 600 metres below the earth’s surface. With sculpted pools and soothing waterfalls framed by native forest, the Lost Spring promises a very picturesque soaking experience.

Down the coast from Whitianga is Hot Water Beach, where heated water bubbles up through the sand. A couple of hours either side of high tide, you can dig your own spa pool then lie back and watch the waves breaking on the beach. Amazing! This hot soak is totally free-of-charge, unless you need to rent a spade from the local store.

Rotorua

Inland from Tauranga is Rotorua, a city built on top of an active volcanic zone. Nearly every accommodation establishment in Rotorua offers private, exchange-heated spa pools. You’ll also find a selection of hot pool complexes, including the famous Polynesian Spa, where you can choose from four bathing areas.

Near Reporoa is a free-of-charge hot spring called Butcher’s Pool. Rated highly by regular soakers, this pool is owned and maintained by the Rotorua District Council. It has sealed walkways, toilets and changing rooms.