There are thermal hot springs and then there is Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa on New Zealand’s south island. Found just an hour outside of Christchurch in Methven, the thermal pools are the perfect escape from the rush of daily life and the region invites you to slow down, relax and soak up the environment for a revitalising escape. And the pools themselves are special as well, sourced from the mountains and powered by the Sun. It makes for a brilliant addition to any and every getaway.
Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa sources its water from the Rangitata river which, in turn, is sourced from the glacial melt of the absolutely stunning Southern Alps. Yeah, that’s right. Crisp, clean and cold water is used but it’s heated up using Ōpuke’s one-of-a-kind Solar Field. it serves as the site’s primary heating system and even on New Zealand’s shortest day of the year it will be able to heat the pool 100% on its own—fingers crossed the Sun ain’t hiding.
At Ōpuke you can find tranquility pools, solar tubs, discovery pools too perfect for a bit of play. You can wade through the interconnected pools, through to the star-lit cave and even swim up to the Tranquility Bar for a drink and canapé.
The spa has you covered for facials, hot stone massages as well as reflexology sessions with expert therapists and signature treatments that have been designed based upon ancient rituals. From Ancient Arabic Rasul’s to Dry Floatation’s, your aches and pains will leave your body.
And when you’re in need of a feed to restore your forces, Ōpuke has gotten hold of local chef Oliver Luxton to combine seasonal, local produce with the best that New Zealand has to offer for a wholesome dining experience. From boards and platters of fresh fruit, cheese and more to oysters, ceviche and stuffed flatbreads, you won’t be going home hungry after a day soaking.
With views of the Southern Alps, thermal waters doing their wonders to your body and dining options that will satiate your taste buds, Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa is a world-class experience just a short drive from Christchurch.
It’s well worth a visit, and once you feel the waters and massages ease away your aches, you’re going to want to visit again and again.