Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs has almost everything, and is certainly an award winner for the many who come to sample the subtleness of the area. Touched with sophistication but passive, or as active as you like -- there is something for everyone. People say the air is different here, and it is -- the freshness of the air is pure and intoxicating.

At 380 metres above sea level the Alpine Village, in winter is often blanketed with snow, transforming the village in to a winter wonderland. Hanmer Springs is a beautiful place no matter what the season - autumn offers a myriad of colours, spring has soft blossoms and an avenue of daffodils and oaks, summer greens are cooling to the otherwise warm weather.

The forest offers many lovely scenic bush walks ranging from half an hour to all day, all-starting close to the Village Centre. Some of the walks wind there way through stands of trees, in one of New Zealand oldest exotic forests. The Hanmer Forest is unique as it contains so many varieties of trees, which were planted around the turn of the century to assess potential value and to establish growth rates.

Other hikes take you through remnant native forest and can vary in grades and times taken. Mt. Isobel for example climbs to 1319 metres above sea level, through sub-alpine plants and offers wonderful views of the Hanmer Basin and beyond. Want to explore the forgotten lakes and valleys of the area and get off the beaten tracks? Then why not take a Guided Walk - and find out more about what the area has to offer.

The steaming thermal water, overlooked by towering trees, at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, are a necessity for those wanting to relax in one New Zealand's finest thermal complexes. After a days activities the thermal waters will soothe the tried and weary body. The Thermal Pools have been operated commercially for over 126 years. The first reported discovery by Europeans being recorded in 1859 by a farm manager from Culverden.

With such beautiful scenery and surrounded by mountains, as if to hide this jewel like place away, not many are prepared for the variety of adventure activities waiting to be experienced. With so many activities to experience  choosing can be a challenge all of it's own. Hanmer Springs caters for Families, Couples, Backpackers or Groups.

Everyone will find something to suit. Want an adrenaline rush -- go Bungy Jumping, Jet boating or take a ride in a Helicopter Flight or an Argo (an eight wheel drive, all terrain amphibious craft). Go Mountain Biking, Heliskiing, or 4 wheel motor biking. Then Hanmer Springs is the place for you.

Rafting on the mighty Waiau River is an option all year round. For those wanting a slightly gentler pace to take in the views of the area, Horse Trekking is an option. Why not go for a scenic plane ride and view the expanse of mountainous countryside around Hanmer Springs? Four wheel drive tours through the Rainbow Station and the famous Molesworth Station leave from Hanmer Springs.

Golf is an option on a beautiful but challenging course located near to the village, or chose from one of the Mini Golf courses in the town. Visit a local pottery, craft shop or the museum. Take a drive into the forest, or explore the

Clarence Valley and Lake Tennyson.

Spend some time and pamper yourself with a relaxing massage. There are just so many things to do. Mountain biking through either or both the Molesworth and Rainbow Stations are becoming popular. It is recommended to seek information on these trips from the Visitor Centre in Hanmer Springs, as it may be necessary to acquire permission from Station owners before attempting these trips.

Wintertime is Ski time. With two ski fields to choose from, one being no more than 45 minutes away and the other just over an hour, there is plenty of snow and fun waiting to be had. Both fields offer excellent ski or snow boarding, with a range of runs to suit any grade.

Hanmer Springs is host to a number of endurance and mountain bike events though out the year. From the Rainbow Rage through to the Mt. Isobel Challenge, there is something for everyone's tastes.

Helicopter flight from Waipara to Hanmer

Cafes and Restaurants are plentiful in Hanmer Springs, with a wide range of food available. Accommodation is a varied as the activities -- with luxury lodges, motels, hotels and home stays. Camping grounds, cabins and back packer lodges. There is something to suit everyone's budget. Booking well ahead is advised for long weekends and school holidays.

Hanmer Springs Map