Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs – New Zealand’s Alpine wonderland

Regardless of the time of the year, there is always so much to see and do in Hanmer Springs while also being the perfect place to relax and do nothing at all. The choice is yours! Only 90 minutes from Christchurch and its International Airport, Hanmer Springs is located within the Canterbury region and Hurunui district and offers a multitude of sights and activities to make your Hanmer holiday one to remember.

Hanmer Springs is situated at an altitude of 385 metres and has the Hanmer Forest Park right at the backdoor. This park contains both indigenous and exotic forest spread over 13000 hectares and is home to some of New Zealand’s oldest exotic plants.

With its multitude of walking and mountain biking tracks, the Hanmer forest is a walking and cycling paradise, with trails to suit all levels of experience

Despite being home to only 729 permanent residents, the area boasts 33 unique accommodation providers, such as The Chalets Motel and over 20 cafes, restaurants and shops.

Previous Next

During the colder months

Hanmer Springs Ski Area

Winter is a popular time of year in Hanmer Springs and it’s easy to see why. With two local ski fields – Hanmer Springs Ski Area and Mount Lyford – the area is a winter wonderland once the snow falls. The ski season in Hanmer Springs runs from July to September so there is plenty of time to get out on the powder.

And with snow on the mountaintops, winter is the perfect time to enjoy an exhilarating walk or bike ride. Afterwards you can reward yourself with a relaxing soak in the Thermal Hot Pools’ natural mineral waters.

During the warmer months

Popular even without the snow on the ground, the warmer months allow for a whole range of activities such as mountain biking and tramping. In fact there are 56kms of walking tracks to suit all ages and fitness levels and 40kms of biking tracks. A leisurely 30min walk up Conical Hill to take in the beautiful views of the Hanmer Plains and mountains beyond, is a ‘must do’. A day tramp up Mt Isobel will reward the keen fit tramper with panoramic breathtaking views of the Hanmer Basin.

The Hanmer Springs village is surrounded by hectares of native and exotic forest eagerly waiting to be explored. Be sure to check in with the local visitor centre before setting out.

Other activities to try in the Hanmer Springs area include bungy jumping, jetboating, horseriding, quad-bike riding, mini-golf, a picturesque full Golf Course and an animal farm.

All year round

The famous Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is home to 15 open air thermal pools of varying temperatures, a freshwater lap-pool with a lazy river, private thermal pools and steam and sauna rooms, all of which operate all year long. For the young (and the young at heart!) there is a very popular Super Bowl and 2 fun filled water slides. And last, but certainly not least, is the Day spa offering a great variety of relaxing massages, facials and treatment options, all designed to let stress and tension melt away.

Need more help planning your Hanmer holiday?

If you require further information about Hanmer Springs, Hanmer accommodation or what to do while on your Hanmer holiday, Andrew host of The Chalets Motel is more than happy to help. A Hanmer holiday at The Chalets Motel is a perfect choice all year round.