No trip to New Zealand is complete without a visit to one of the many hot pools dotted around the country.
Both North and South Islands have many spots to choose from, ranging from underground thermal spring fed creeks to luxury private pools, thanks to our abundance of volcanos and geothermal activity.
Travelling in your Campervan with kids? Then choose one of the options with added waterslides to burn off some of their endless energy. Travelling as a couple? Then you are spoilt for choice with the private pool options available to visit while in your luxury Roam motorhome.
Starting from North to South, here are some of our favourites!
Ngawa Springs, Kaikohe.
Located not far from the town of Kaikohe, these traditional geothermal fed pools are known for their healing properties with their high mineral content. Soak in the small pools surround by native bush choosing from different temperature pools.
Miranda Hot Springs, Coromandel Peninsula
Located 1 hour south of Auckland in the cute town of Miranda, three large pools offer you a choice from private adult’s pool to a larger children’s pool. The springs have been used since pre-European times, offering thermally heated fresh mineral waters. With onsite BBQs and jumping pillow for the children, make a day of it here in Miranda and stop for a long lunch while on your luxury road trip.
Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
For a truly unique experience, head to Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. Here, you can dig your own hot pool in the sand, where natural hot springs bubble up from beneath the surface. Timing is crucial, as these hot pools can only be enjoyed during low tide. Grab a shovel, feel the warm waters seep through the sand, and relish in the bliss of your own personal hot spring. Shovels can be hired if you book a site for your luxury campervan at the nearby Holiday Park.
The Lost Spring, Whitianga
Tucked away in the coastal town of Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, The Lost Spring offers a tranquil escape from the outside world. Wander through lush tropical gardens to discover a series of beautifully landscaped hot pools, fed by geothermal springs. Indulge in a range of spa treatments or simply unwind in the warm waters as you soak up the serenity. Swim in the largest of the pools which features an Amethyst Cave where you can marvel at the stalactites and crystals.
Polynesian Spa, Rotorua.
Rotorua is well known for its therapeutic mineral water and The Polynesia Spa has a stunning lakeside location where you can relax in one of the 28 spring fed hot pools while enjoying panoramic views over the lake. Choose from their acidic or alkaline pools, with private pool options available. The Spa on site has an array of relaxing treatment options to make the most of your experience here.
Taupo boasts many options when it comes to hot pools. Here are three of our favourites for you to visit while driving your luxury motorhome around New Zealand!
De Brett’s, Taupo
For a family friendly option, head to De Brett’s in Taupo. With a variety of large pools there is a temperature to suit everyone. Waterslides keep the kids entertained while the adults enjoy some relaxing in the warm mineral rich thermal water. Adults only private pools are also available. The holiday park on site is a family favourite with lots of activities to keep the kids happy.
Wairakei Terraces
For an adults only retreat from the world, immerse yourself in one of the four different temperature pools. Waters rich in silica, magnesium and other minerals will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. The luxe surroundings will have you never wanting to leave.
Otumuheke Stream
A back to basics, kiwi favourite, the Otumuheke stream is a fun way to relax while being surrounded by nature. This stream is located near the Spa Road Thermal Park and on the banks of the mighty Waikato River. A historical Maori bathing spot, follow the trail downhill to find changing rooms, lockers and a coffee kiosk. The stream temperature can vary from very hot to warm, depending on rainfall and other weather conditions.
Tokaanu Thermal Pools, Tokaanu.
After a day on the ski field or post Toingariro Crossing hike, this is the perfect spot to soak away your aches! Soothing, therapeutic waters of the thermal Tokaanu spring feeds the private and communal pools. The private pools have temperatures between 39 – 41 degrees Celsius, meaning a 30 minute soak will be all you need! A stream runs in front of the facility where eels and trout can often be seen from the small bridge above. A family favourite for sure while on your road trip.
South Island
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools, Canterbury
Tucked away in the picturesque town of Hanmer Springs these thermal pools are a haven for relaxation. Founded in 1859 and surrounded by towering forests often snow covered in winter, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools boast a variety of pools, including sulphur pools, rock pools, hydro slides and even a lazy river along with private pools for those who are seeking tranquillity. After a day of exploring the nearby wilderness, unwind in the soothing embrace of these rejuvenating waters. The Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park is walking distance to the Hot Springs location, perfect for your overnight stay with your Roam Motorhome.
Maruia Hot Springs, Maruia
Tucked away on the Lewis Pass Reserve, these pools are surrounded by the Southern Alps. Naturally heated pools with thermal water from underground are fed into a wide range of bathing options. Modelled on a traditional Japanese Onsen you can enjoy the mountains and natural surrounds while you unwind. Treat yourself and book spa treatments while you are here. Book a campsite here and stay overnight to take full advantage of the pools and packages they have to offer. This award winning spot is not to be missed!
Omarama Hot Tubs, Omarama
Situated in the vast Waitaki/Mackenzie country you can book your own private pool for up to 8 people! Experience these stunning wood fire heated pools by day or night, daytime giving you expansive views and nighttime showing off the sparkling vista above. Designed for relaxing, these private tubs wont disappoint. The nearby Top 10 Holiday Park is a great accommodation option for while on your road-trip.
Tekapo Springs Hot Pools, Lake Tekapo
Located in one of the most stunning areas in New Zealand, these pools offer alpine environment relaxation at 720 meters above sea level! With three hot pools to choose from and two cooler/kids play pools everyone will be happy when visiting! Exceptionally pure water fills all the pools, open day and night, perfect for laying back in the hot water and experiencing the exceptional night sky that a Dark Sky Reserve has to offer. Winter time brings the addition of ice skating and snow play to add to the fun. The nearby Lakes Edge Holiday Park is walking distance to the Hot Springs.
Onsen Hot Pools, Queenstown
Award winning Onsen Hot Pools features Japanese style cedar hot tubs filled with the purest of mountain water. Relax in one of their retractable roof pools, or try one of the new outdoor pools and soak away your aches with the 38.5 degree water. Enjoy the incredible views over the Shotover River while in your private tub. Spa treatments are also offered here, book a package to cover both spa and soak and get the full luxury hot pool experience.
LandEscape, Wanaka
One of our favourite boutique campsites, LandEscape provide a private, spring-filled cedar hot tub, heated by your own wood fire, right next to your motorhome! Pull up next to your own private hot tub and outdoor deck area and spend your time marvelling at the expansive views over their 300 acres of Wanaka landscape. Soak the night away while you gaze at the bright clusters of stars above, or wake in the morning and jump into your private tub. E-bikes are also available for hire here with trails aplenty to explore. We highly recommend including this epic hot pool location as an overnight stop on your South Island itinerary.
