Add dates

South IslandHot springs

Our most recommended South Island Hot springs

Ōpuke Thermal Pools: Adults-Only Entry with Swim Up Bar

1. Ōpuke Thermal Pools: Adults-Only Entry with Swim Up Bar

Enjoy a relaxing escape from it all at Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa with this entry ticket. Visit the newest wellness destination in Methven Canterbury, take in the tranquil surroundings of Methven, and marvel at the vistas of rolling hills. Enter Tranquility Pools to enjoy your premium adult-exclusive experience. Pick up your complimentary robe and towel and head to one of the solar-powered pools overlooking the Southern Alps. Indulge yourself at the swim-up bar and order a snack or a drink. If you wish, head to the Discovery Pools as well, which are open to families.

Methven: Opuke Discovery Pools 2-Hour Session

2. Methven: Opuke Discovery Pools 2-Hour Session

Take a relaxing escape from it all at Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa. Opuke is the newest wellness destination in Methven Canterbury, just an hour out of Christchurch City. The tranquil surroundings of Methven and the majestic foothills of the Southern Alps provide an ideal backdrop for a rejuvenating retreat into nature. The Discovery Pools are the ideal environment to cater for all, whether you’re wanting to sit back in the hot pools and soak in the magnificent views or release your inner child and have some fun. Discover the Aqua Play Zone including a 'crazy river' and 'leap of faith' plunge pool. You can also take refuge and explore the starlit caves, where you never know what you’ll find. The facility uses natural resources to minimise its footprint and delivers world-class spa treatments that uniquely meld Maoritanga and modern methods. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the majestic landscapes and flowing water, a bathing spa experience with Opuke will leave you feeling completely renewed.

Franz Josef Glacier: 2.5-Hour Hike with Helicopter Transfer

3. Franz Josef Glacier: 2.5-Hour Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Soar to Franz Josef Glacier and see this 8-kilometer-long behemoth from above on a roundtrip helicopter tour from Franz Josef. Touch down on the glacier and follow your guide on a guided hike. Take in dazzling ice formations and stay warm with winter clothing and snacks along the way.  Start your journey at the glacier base in Franz Josef Town, where the team will check you in. Get kitted out with the essential gear and listen to a safety briefing. Once you are ready, follow your guide on a short walk through the native forest to the helipad to board the helicopter. After a thrilling scenic flight high above rugged terrain, land on Franz Josef Glacier and set off on a 2-hour and 15-minute guided hike. With an eye for the most spectacular ice formations, your guide will lead you through some of the most awe-inspiring glacier scenery New Zealand has to offer.  Each trip is tailored to the ability of your group, as well as the conditions on the day of your tour. During the hike, your guide will tell you stories about the local area and share their knowledge of the glacier and surrounding terrain. The glacier's features are constantly changing, so you might find yourself sliding through a narrow crevasse or between towering walls of ice, crawling through blue ice tunnels, hanging out in ice caves, or witnessing the glacier calving. 

Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour with Local Guide

4. Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour with Local Guide

Walk through the lush historic glaciated rainforest in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, spotting the huge rata, rimu trees and moss. During the walk your guide will provide informative commentary on glaciation, geothermology geology, flora and fauna. Dip your hand into a geothermal spring to feel nature up close. Take in the views of upper Fox Glacier, Fox Neve, and Mount Tasman, one of New Zealand's highest mountains. Due to the location, you won't get up close to the terminal face of the glacier, this walk is predominantly focused on the stunning nature in the Fox Glacier Valley.  Upon completion of the walk, your guide will drop you back to your accommodation.

Available activities

Frequently asked questions about South Island Hot springs

What are other things to do than Hot springs that are worth visiting in South Island?

The other unmissable things to do in South Island are:

Which South Island Hot springs are taking additional COVID-19 precautions?

Other Sightseeing Options in South Island

Want to discover all there is to do in South Island? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about South Island

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 3 reviews

We were so pleased to know we were able to go on this adventure as it is very weather dependant and we were not disappointed. Every step in the process was done well with clear instructions given and our safety being the greatest concern which was comforting. The helicopter ride was short but amazing. The hike on the glacier was an incredible experience and allowed us to hike on challenging yet achievable terrain and know first hand what it was like actually being up on the glacier. An experience we all loved!

Had such a lovely time on this walk. The family all enjoyed it as well. Cliff is very knowledgeable, funny and ensured we had a terrific time. Definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to walk through the track (some of which are off the beaten path) with someone that can point out some facts about New Zealand flora and fauna. The tea break near the glacier is enjoyable and provides plenty of opportunities to take snaps.

Amazing hike. Beautiful day for it with clear blue skies. Our guide Drew was great! Thank you for a fantastic time!

Incredible, one of the best experiences. I highly recommend it.