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History of Hanmer Springs
History of Hanmer Springs
The town is named after Thomas Hanmer, an owner of Hawkeswood Station near the Conway River during the 1850s. The locality was discovered for its hot springs by William Jones in early 1859. Access to the general area was provided by a bridge constructed over the Waiau River in 1864.
John Turnbull Thomson surveyed the land for the township in 1879, with the total area comprising 2,500 acres, of which 300 acres were for the township itself. The hot springs were not included within that area. The springs themselves were still in their natural state at that time, with only steps and a changing shed provided. Construction of a bath house began in January 1884. A new bridge opened in 1887 and gives access to Hanmer to this day.
In order to provide timber for the Christchurch market, reserve land was set aside between 1900–1901. The planting of exotic trees began in 1902, and in 1903 prison labour was used. The prisoners who took part in the planting resided at a nearby prison camp which operated until 1913.
The town is built around hot springs which originate in the fractured rock bed along the Hanmer fault. Hanmer Springs Queen Mary Hospital, formerly the South Island's leading rehabilitation centre for sufferers of drug addiction, was closed in 2003.
About Hanmer Springs
About Hanmer Springs
The resort town of Hanmer Springs is an attractive year-round holiday destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming town has a main street filled with boutique shops, cafes and eateries.
Adventure activities will immerse you in the wild beauty of Hanmer. Go forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, bungy jumping, jet boating or, in winter, hit the slopes and go skiing. Once you've caught your breath, you might enjoy a leisure round of golf.
Don’t miss the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa where you can soak in one of 22 outdoor thermal pools or treat yourself to a range of indulgent spa therapies. The family fun area is complete with four hydroslides and the New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill
Go for a walk or ride through the large forest plantation full of native and exotic and introduced species of forest trees. Pick up a brochure from the info centre and discover the many walking trails through the forest.
Map of Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs complex main entrance
Hanmer Springs hot pools are just a 5 minute drive away from the MOA house
View from Hanmer Springs village
The Village shopping area
Chisholm Park with small lake
Looking across lake to shopping area on Chisholm Crescent
Waiau River Bridge
Corner of Conical Hill Road and Chisholm Crescent
Conical Hill Road (Main street) with Conical Hill in the background
Conical Hill Road and shops
A-Maze-N-Golf adventure maze and mini golf
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Things to do
Things to do
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Surrounded by mountains and forests, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is the best place to indulge, with a range of pools including relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools, an array of water jets and bubbles - at a range of temperatures. Plus a luxurious day spa with a range of treatments, private pools, sauna and steam rooms. The best place to act like a kid, with an activity pool, lap pool, lazy river, water slides, garden picnic areas and the Tea Kiosk Café & Grill. Quite simply – the best place.
Hanmer Springs Attractions
Hanmer Springs Attractions
Located on the turn off of State Highway 7 and 7A next to the Waiau River.
Jet Boating
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Waiau River on this exhilarating adventure activity. Jet through narrow gorges, white water rapids and braided shallows on our thrilling jetboat ride. Experience the 360 degree spins made famous by the jetboat, first invented in New Zealand!
Quad biking
Plow through streams, mud, forest and over rocks – all on a two-hour quad biking trip. Follow our expert guide on an exciting adventure ride through the scenic alpine backyard of Hanmer Springs. Our experienced guides will lead you on a fun and safe quad biking trip suitable for all ages (children from 6 years). Even if you’ve never ridden before, our quad bikes are easy to get the hang of and you’ll be away in no time. Small, large and two-seater bikes are available in both auto and manual. The specially-designed track which winds through the rugged Hanmer Springs landscape will ensure non-stop thrills and enjoyment for the whole family.
Rafting
Rafting down a Grade 2 river will make certain for an exciting and enjoyable experience. The river changes quickly – drift down calm, serene waters to rough and rocky rapids. Our experienced guides mean anyone can enjoy the rafting adventure. The rafts can seat up to 9 people including the guide, so this is perfect for families and groups. Be sure to bring your swim gear, a towel and plenty of sunscreens.
Bungy
Free-falling 35 metres to the surging river below is a must-do activity for everyone at least once in their lifetime. Confidence and bravery may all be lost when you step onto that ledge. Securely strapped into a harness, you are ready to go. You just need to jump. The fall feels like an eternity, soon followed by a wave of excitement and happiness. The bungy jump is located in an idyllic alpine setting and customers jump from the historic bridge.
Canoe Safari
Take to the river with our canoes. Our safe, durable and fun inflatable vessels allow you to explore the unknown through the scenic Waiau River gorge in the stunning natural environment of Hanmer Springs. This full-day, fully guided river canoe safari includes a picnic lunch and a return by Jetboat to your point of departure. Suitable for couples, families or groups, this is a real New Zealand experience not to be missed. Book your Canoe Safari today!
Other activities
Claybird shooting, Off Road Buggy tours, Paintball and helicopter tours also available.
Hanmer Springs Mini Golf
Hanmer Springs Mini Golf
There are two great mini golf attractions in the village
A-Maze-N-Golf
Come and solve the mystery of the Lost Temple maze and be in for lots of surprises along the way or play our Gold Rush themed 18 hole mini golf course.
Alpine Crazy Putt & Village Cruisers
Alpine Crazy Putt is a challenging mini golf course which guarantees fun for everyone. Located in the middle of Hanmer Springs Village, Alpine Crazy Putt has a variety of fun and challenging holes. Village Cruisers is a unique pedalling experience that caters for 2 - 6 persons on the same bike. A fun and leisurely way to explore Hanmer Springs. A fantastic experience for everyone!
Mountain biking (MTB) around Hanmer Springs
Mountain biking (MTB) around Hanmer Springs
With over 30 kilometres of purpose built cross country trails catering to all levels of ability, its variety of terrain, from steep gravel hillsides make Hanmer a destination for mountain bikers.
Whether you want a relaxing sightseeing ride or something more strenuous, you won’t be short of options. What's more, many of these rides are just a short pedal from the centre of the township.
Check out the network of mountain biking forest trails
There are plenty of walking trails including the track along Dog Stream
Walk through the Hanmer Forest
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