Quick Facts
Hanmer Springs for Families — Overview
Hanmer Springs is a small alpine village in the Lewis Pass foothills, famous for its geothermal pools. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa complex is the main attraction — a family-friendly complex with pools of varying temperatures, a huge waterslide park, and a separate children's pool area. The surrounding mountains offer excellent forest walks and the Conical Hill lookout.
Top Things to Do in Hanmer Springs with Kids
- ✓ Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — the main event. Multiple outdoor pools, Family Activity Pool with waterslides. $32/adult, $20/child.
- ✓ Conical Hill Forest Walk — 30 min return through Douglas fir forest to a viewpoint. Easy and lovely.
- ✓ Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre — quad biking, bungy, and more for older kids and teens
- ✓ Dog Stream Waterfall walk — 2 hrs return, excellent bush walk with waterfall reward
- ✓ Hanmer Springs town — good cafés, The Old Post Office café is excellent for families
Rainy Day Options — Hanmer Springs
Where to Stay in Hanmer Springs with Kids
Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park is central and well-equipped. Numerous holiday cottages and B&Bs.
Find Hanmer Springs Accommodation on Booking.com →Hanmer Springs Family Budget Guide
Thermal pools $32/adult, $20/child. Family pass available. An excellent weekend from Christchurch.
Use the NZ Family Travel Budget Calculator to plan your full trip spend.
Hanmer Springs Family FAQ
Are the Hanmer Springs pools suitable for young children?
Yes — there's a dedicated Children's Leisure Pool with waterslides and play features specifically designed for kids. The main thermal pools range from 28°C to 42°C — children should stay in the cooler pools (the signs indicate temperature). The Family Activity Pool has waterslides that children 7cm above 120cm can ride. Toddlers can use the children's area freely.
Can we do Hanmer Springs as a day trip from Christchurch?
Yes — easily. It's 1.5 hours each way. Leave Christchurch at 9am, arrive at the pools by 10:30am, spend 3–4 hours swimming, have lunch at the village, walk Conical Hill, and be back in Christchurch by 7pm. It's one of the most popular Christchurch day trips, especially in winter when the pools are extra magical.
Nearby Destinations to Combine with Hanmer Springs
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