Visitors have been soaking in the waters of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools for over 100 years. Local legend has it that the thermal springs are the fires of Tamatea, which fell from the sky after an eruption of Mt Ngauruhoe on the North Island; Maori call the springs Waitapu (Sacred Waters).

The hot-spring water mixes with freshwater to produce pools of varying temperatures. In addition to mineral pools, there are landscaped rock pools, a freshwater 25m lap pool, private thermal pools ($25 per 30 minutes) and a restaurant. There are loads of fun for kids of all ages, including a waterslide and the exciting Superbowl ($10). The adjacent Hanmer Springs Spa has massage and beauty treatments from $70. A recent refurbishment has lifted the spa to international standards, and entry to the pools is discounted to $12 if you also partake of the spa's facilities.