Families

For a magical family vacation, you can’t beat holidaying in Hurunui District!

From feeding farm animals in Hanmer Springs Animal Park, to riding the weka pass railway, getting off-grid at Gore Bay and tramping the Mt Cass walkway, a holiday in Hurunui District will give you time to connect with your loved ones and create long lasting memories.

Many parents cherish memories of learning to ski at Lyford or Hanmer ski fields and are excited to continue the tradition with their own children. Children and parents alike will delight in spotting the little creations dotted about the magical Fairy Door Walk in Hanmer, and of course soaking in the famous thermal springs is always a crowd pleaser.

There’s accommodation options for all budgets too. From camping at Balmoral Reserve, to holiday parks, motels and campsites, book your family holiday and let the fun begin!

Hanmer Springs Attractions

Hanmer Springs Attractions offers all the fun, family-friendly adventure activities that New Zealand is famous for in the incredible location of Hanmer Springs. Get your thrills with a bungy, go for a hair-raising ride on a jet boat or try your hand at quad biking or claybird shooting.

Hanmer Springs Attractions

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Hanmer Springs Gateway Lodge

Hanmer Springs Gateway Lodge offers modern, affordable accommodation just a 10-minute walk from the village, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Choose from a range of comfortable rooms, unwind with on-site dining at the Gateway Tavern, and enjoy amenities like free parking, Wi-Fi and guest laundry. A relaxed, Kiwi-hospitality base for families, couples and business travellers alike.

Hanmer Springs Gateway Lodge

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Hanmer Springs Top 10

Affordable, easy access, great facilities and ideally located - there’s no better place to stay for families than the Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park. Whether you’re travelling in a campervan, or want to stay in a basic cabin, unit or motel room, there is an option for everyone.

Hanmer Springs Top 10

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Settlers Boutique Motel Hanmer Springs

Settlers Boutique Motel is a hidden gem in the heart of Hanmer Springs, offering luxurious comfort and tranquil privacy just a short stroll from the thermal pools. Enjoy warm rustic decor, handcrafted furniture, and thoughtful touches like free laundry, Wi-Fi, and complimentary pool towels — the perfect base to rejuvenate, recharge, and soak up alpine village life.

Settlers Boutique Motel Hanmer Springs

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Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa

Tucked between dramatic mountains and towering forest, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is where relaxation meets adventure. Unwind in the natural rock pools, ride the hydroslides, or get ready for the all-new YourWave Surf Experience, launching late September. For something more indulgent, book a massage or treatment at the exclusive spa, or try the new Elemental contrast therapy — a journey through heat, steam, cold, and stillness.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa

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Alpine Crazy Putt

Located in the middle of picturesque Hanmer Springs Village, Alpine Crazy Putt and Village Cruisers is the perfect way to have some affordable fun with the whole family. The mini golf course has 18 challenging and fun holes, then pack a picnic, jump on a Cruiser and explore Hanmer Springs Village the fun way!

Alpine Crazy Putt

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Edit Hanmer Springs

Set among mature trees, with stunning views of the Southern Alps, this beautifully restored local landmark has been transformed into a resort with outdoor swimming pool, tennis and petanque courts. Enjoy local wines and cuisine at the elegant restaurant and bar, which features a roaring fire in winter, or al fresco dining in summer.

Edit Hanmer Springs

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Hanmer Forest Amble Sculpture Walk

The Forest Amble Sculpture Walk is the perfect short walk for kids, winding through the beautiful Hanmer Heritage Forest with a trail of large wooden sculptures to spot along the way. Keep an eye out for a big friendly giant, an orangutan, a tuatara, a falcon, a dog, and more hidden among the trees. The track starts at 100 Jollies Pass Road and takes about 30 minutes, depending on the pace of your smallest walker. Each sculpture was carved from a redwood tree once removed from Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa — giving it a beautiful new life in the forest.

Hanmer Forest Amble Sculpture Walk

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Energy Jet

Experience all that beautiful Hurunui has to offer, with a thrilling jet boat ride along the Hurunui River with Energy Jet. From shallow river braids, to beautiful canyons and large boulder fields, plus numerous spins and time to pause and enjoy the serenity, this is an action packed trip, from start to finish.

Energy Jet

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Learn more about Hurunui

at the official tourism website

Visit Hurunui

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Explore more of the Top of the South

Kaikoura

From the thrill of whale spotting by plane, trekking with llamas and visiting with seals, there are so many exciting opportunities to explore this unique area by land, sea or air. The waters in this part of the world are home to a vast array of marine mammals and birdlife which can be viewed from above and below the waves.

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Marlborough

Dreamy sunsets, calm reflections and star-filled nights - you couldn’t ask for a more inspiring backdrop to create un-filled holiday memories with your loved ones. Explore the four valleys that create Marlborough, meet the passionate people who live, work and play there and learn about their connection with the land.

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Nelson Tasman

Nelson Tasman has an incredible arts and events scene, an exciting and diverse range of food and beverage producers and an indelible connection with the outdoors. Along with a vibrant array of fresh produce and artisan products, boutique wineries, craft breweries and award winning cider makers can all be found in this part of the world.

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West Coast

From its stunning coastline to the epic peaks of the Southern Alps, the West Coast is a place of stunning natural beauty and the ideal spot for a getaway. Whether the hills are calling your name, or you prefer a more laid-back approach to taking some time out, there is no better place to re-set, recharge and reconnect.

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