New Zealand sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means geothermal activity bubbles just beneath the surface in many parts of the country. From the steaming cliffs of Rotorua to the alpine hot springs of the South Island, there are hot springs scattered across both main islands. Some are developed into commercial hot pools with cafes and changing rooms, while others remain wild and require a short hike. Whether you want a quick soak after a day of walking or a full spa experience, the hot springs in New Zealand offer something for every traveller.
Hot Springs on the North Island
The North Island is home to New Zealand’s most famous geothermal region. Rotorua and Taupō sit inside the Taupō Volcanic Zone, where underground heat feeds dozens of hot springs and geysers. Here you will find everything from historic bathhouses to hidden river pools.
Rotorua and Taupō Region
Rotorua is the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal activity. The Polynesian Spa is a well-known commercial hot pool complex with a range of mineral baths overlooking Lake Rotorua. For a more natural experience, the Rotorua Secret Hot Springs are tucked away in the bush and offer a quieter soak. Nearby, Waikite Valley Thermal Pools provide an affordable, family-friendly option with six pools heated by a natural spring. The site also includes a campground for those who want to stay overnight.
Just south of Rotorua, the Taupō area has its own gems. Wairakei Terraces are a series of silica terraces and hot pools fed by geothermal water. The Taupo Hot Pools are another easy-access option for a quick dip. For adventurous soakers, Hot Water Beach on Lake Tarawera and the Wairua Stream Pool on Lake Tarawera are natural hot pools that you can reach by boat or a short walk. The Hot ‘n Cold / The Bridge is a popular spot where a hot stream meets a cold river, allowing you to find your perfect temperature.
Coromandel and Waikato
The Coromandel Peninsula is famous for Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own spa pool in the sand at low tide. Just north of Whitianga, The Lost Spring is a lush, landscaped complex with thermal pools surrounded by tropical plants. On the west coast of the Waikato region, Kawhia Hot Water Beach offers a similar digging experience to its Coromandel cousin, but with fewer crowds.
Other North Island Hot Springs
Further north of Rotorua, you can find Kaitoke Hot Springs on the edge of the bush. These basic pools are a nice stop if you are exploring the upper North Island. For those interested in geothermal wonders beyond soaking, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Te Puia showcase colourful hot springs and geysers, though swimming is not allowed at these sites.
Hot Springs on the South Island
The South Island has a different geothermal feel. Many hot springs here are located in alpine settings, surrounded by mountains and rivers. The water is often clearer and less sulphurous than in the North Island, and the pools range from luxury experiences to wild natural springs.
Queenstown and Central Otago
Queenstown is known for its adventure activities, but it also has some of the South Island’s best hot springs. Onsen Hot Pools are a series of private cedar tubs perched above the Shotover River gorge. Each tub is filled with glacier-fed water heated by a natural hot spring. Further inland, Omarama Hot Tubs offer private outdoor baths with views of the surrounding mountains. The water here is piped from a natural spring and cooled to a comfortable temperature. Near the town of Tekapo, Tekapo Hot Springs is a modern complex with indoor and outdoor pools, perfect after a day of stargazing or skiing.
West Coast and Canterbury
One of the most famous hot springs in the South Island is Hanmer Springs, located in North Canterbury. This large thermal resort has several outdoor pools, water slides, and a spa area. For a more remote experience, Maruia Springs is set beside the Maruia River in a valley of native forest. The Hurunui River has several natural hot springs along its banks, best reached after a hike. On the West Coast, the Franz Josef Hot Pools offer a relaxing soak with views of the glacier. The Wanganui River has three sets of hot springs, the most accessible being the transient Amethyst Hot Springs. For those willing to hike, Welcome Flat Hot Springs on the Copland River is a backcountry favourite, reached via a multi-hour walk through rainforest.
Natural Hot Springs vs Commercial Hot Pools
New Zealand offers a mix of developed hot pools and wild natural springs. Which one you choose depends on your comfort and sense of adventure. Commercial pools like the Polynesian Spa, Tekapo Hot Springs, and Hanmer Springs provide changing rooms, cafes, and often multiple pools at different temperatures. They are great for families and those who want guaranteed cleanliness.
Natural hot springs, such as Hot Water Beach on Lake Tarawera, Kaitoke Hot Springs, and the Amethyst Hot Springs, require a bit more effort. You may need to hike, dig your own pool, or check river conditions. They are free or have minimal entry charges, and the experience is more rustic. Many locals prefer these wild springs because they feel less commercialised. Whichever you pick, always check the water temperature before getting in, as natural springs can be very hot in places.
Tips for Visiting Hot Springs in New Zealand
- Check the weather and river levels before heading to natural springs. Rain can cause flooding or make access slippery.
- For springs like Hot Water Beach, bring a spade to dig your pool and check tide times online.
- Commercial pools often have sunset or evening sessions that are less crowded and more atmospheric.
- Pack a towel, swimwear, and a change of clothes. Some natural springs have no facilities.
- Respect the environment. Do not use soap or shampoo in natural hot springs, and take all rubbish with you.
- If you are new to geothermal areas, stay on marked paths to avoid thin crusts and boiling mud pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Zealand have natural hot springs?
Yes, New Zealand has many natural hot springs located on both the North and South Islands. Some are developed into commercial pools, while others remain wild and require a short walk or hike. The geothermal activity from the Taupō Volcanic Zone on the North Island and the Alpine Fault on the South Island creates these warm waters.
Are Tekapo hot springs natural?
Tekapo Hot Springs is a commercial complex that uses water from a natural hot spring. The water is piped from underground and heated further if needed. While the pools are man-made, the source is natural. The same applies to many other commercial hot pools in New Zealand.
Can you swim in hot springs in Rotorua?
Yes, there are several safe places to swim in hot springs in the Rotorua region. The Polynesian Spa offers mineral pools, and Waikite Valley Thermal Pools has six natural hot pools. Natural spots like the Rotorua Secret Hot Springs and the hot pools on Lake Tarawera also allow swimming, but always check local conditions first.
What is the best hot spring on the South Island?
That depends on your preference. Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown offer private tubs with mountain views, while Hanmer Springs is a large resort with family-friendly facilities. For a wilder experience, Welcome Flat Hot Springs on the Copland River is a backcountry favourite. Each has its own charm.
From the steaming shores of Lake Tarawera to the alpine tubs above the Shotover River, the hot springs in New Zealand invite you to slow down and soak up the country’s unique geothermal landscape. Plan your trip around the seasons, bring your curiosity, and enjoy one of the most relaxing experiences Aotearoa has to offer.
