The Luxury Travel Guide to Hanmer Springs

© NZSI Tours & Travel

Luxury Adventure Activities

From helicopter flights to scenic golf courses to skiing, there are many ways to enjoy the Hanmer Springs alpine scenery in style. Even getting there can be an adventure, especially on a helicopter excursion with Garden City Helicopters. Fly from Christchurch over the Canterbury Plains and into the alpine village of Hanmer Springs on this full-day experience which also includes access to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa (more on that in the below section). Book this tour with Garen City Helicopters on Viator or  Tripadvisor. Alternatively, join NZSI Tours & Travel for a private day tour from Christchurch, including entry to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, as well as tastings at three wineries in the Waipara wine region. Learn more about the experience on Viator and Tripadvisor.

An iconic feature in Hanmer Springs village, the Hanmer Springs Golf Club is well worth a swing. Play on well-maintained tree-lined fairways with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The 18-hole course has all the rental gear you need, ideal for visitors, while the challenges are fun for both beginner and seasoned golfers.

If you should come to Hanmer Springs between July and September, you may be lucky enough to spend a day on the slopes. Enjoy one of New Zealand iconic club ski fields for an authentic ski experience away from the crowds, yet still with the luxury of groomed runs, at the Hanmer Springs Ski Area. You can hire all the gear you need from the Hanmer Adventure Centre and take the shuttle up to the ski field with beginners packages and lessons available on weekends. While definitely not the type of ski field you might be used to, the laidback ambience and uncrowded trails offer a kind of luxury that’s becoming more and more difficult to find.

For more luxury adventures, like scenic helicopter flights within Hanmer Springs, check out the 10 Luxury Activities in Hanmer Springs.

© Hanmer Springs - ChristchurchNZ

All-weather Luxury Activities

Let’s not waste any more time in getting to Hanmer Springs’ most iconic attraction. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is the largest hot pools complex in New Zealand using spring water that makes a remarkable journey from snow in the Hanmer Plains to natural spring water used for bathing at the hot pools 173 years later. While indulging in the various themed hot pools around the complex is an experience in itself, there are many ways to up the pamper level, from private hot pools to an extensive array of spa treatments at the on-site spa. Either way, you’ll come out feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

If you prefer to get out and explore more of the Hanmer Springs area, however, join a local guide on a luxury Jeep tour with Hanmer High Country Jeep Tours (available on Viator and Tripadvisor). Escape the commercial charms of the town and head for the highlands in a private 4WD tour with options to admire the Clarence River, venture around Lake Tennyson, or enjoy a picnic with a view at Lake Sedgemere or the Molesworth Recreation Reserve and more!

For more inspiration for rainy day activities, head to the 10 Things to Do in Hanmer Springs on a Rainy Day.

© Braemar Lodge And Spa

Fine Dining in Hanmer Springs

Complement your spa sessions, hot pools soak, helicopter or Jeep excursion with a luxurious fine dining meal at one of Hanmer Springs exquisite restaurants.

The Altitude Restaurant (283 Medway Road) of the Braemar Lodge And Spa is a no-brainer for travellers seeking a special dining experience in Hanmer Springs. Available to their guests and casual diners, the restaurant serves contemporary and seasonal New Zealand cuisine with an extensive menu of local regional wines, New Zealand craft beer, cocktails and more.

More fine dining plates can be found at No. 31 Restaurant & Bar (31 Amuri Avenue) renowned for its premium New Zealand beef, Fiordland wild venison and a dizzying drinks menu that spoils you for choice.

Finally, get the winery experience at Waiau River Estate (2254 Mouse Point Road) with their restaurant of gourmet delights and in-house wine open Friday to Sunday (bookings advised).

For more recommendations, take a look at The Foodie Guide to Hanmer Springs.