_{Te Waiariki Ngāwhā Springs is a welcome treat}

Pou Herenga Tai - Twin Coast Cycle Trail Great Ride  

After cycling on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, bathe in the healing water of Te Waiariki Ngāwhā Springs, a taonga (treasure) of the north. 

There are 16 geothermal mineral-rich hot pools each with unique nutrient and temperature characteristics.

Used for centuries for relaxation, therapeutic qualities and healing, let the ancient energy revitalise your senses after a long day cycling. 

_{Relax and unwind at Te Waiariki Ngāwhā Springs}

_{Waikato's Okoroire Hot Springs features three geothermal pools}

Waikato River Trails Great Ride

Just 20 minutes from the northern end of the Waikato River Trails is the Okoroire Hot Springs.  

The natural springs, complete with an organic sand bottom, feature three geothermal pools. They were dug back in 1880 and extensively redeveloped in 2017 and 2018. 

Surrounded by bush and ferns, the pools are sheltered from the elements, making it the perfect place to draw a deep breath, take in nature and let your mind drift. 

_{Te Aroha Mineral Spas are known for their healing properties. Photo: Te Aroha Mineral Spas}

Hauraki Rail Trail Great Ride

When you’re ready to relax after time on the Hauraki Rail Trail, nestled in the beautiful domain at the foot of Mount Te Aroha is the Te Aroha Mineral Spas.  Renowned for their healing properties since the 1800s, it’s the perfect way to soothe tired muscles and unwind.  

For the kids, there’s fun to be had next door at the neighbouring Swimzone. 

_{Take time to relax at Te Aroha Mineral Spas. Photo: Te Aroha Mineral Spas}

_{Secret Spot hot tubs are nestled among nature. Photo: Graeme Murray}

Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride (Rotorua)

Visitors have flocked to Rotorua’s thermal waters since the mid-19th century to bathe in the hot pools along the edge of Lake Rotorua.  

Hailed for their healing properties, there’s a variety of geothermally-heated hot pools on offer, from lakeside hot pools and mineral pools to freshwater hot tubs and free footbaths. 
 
Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on the shores of Lake Rotorua is a luxury cultural wellness destination. Built on the legacy of Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing practices and manaakitanga – the centuries-old and internationally renowned Ngāti Whakaue concept of welcoming manuhiri (visitors) - it’s a place of peace, tranquillity and calm. 

Polynesian Spa is renowned as New Zealand’s premier geothermal spa. Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua, for generations visitors worldwide have gone to experience the restorative power of its natural geothermal waters, drawn from two unique springs. The complex features 28 mineral pools across four areas, each offering a distinct experience.  

Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature at Secret Spot Hot Tubs. Set in a beautifully landscaped garden, there are 12 hand-crafted cedar hot tubs nestled among native plantings and alongside a stream on the edge of a magical forest. Add a refreshing twist and take the plunge in a complimentary cold cedar plunge tub. Or with every food or drink purchase, you can enjoy the extremely popular shinny dips (mini foot tubs) for free. 
 
Waikite Valley Hotpools overlooks the Waikite Valley, native bush and surrounding geothermal activity. There, you can experience the natural, hot geothermal water of the Te Manaroa Spring,  the largest single source of 100% pure geothermal water in New Zealand. There are six outdoor pools as well as private pools. 

_{Polynesian Spa is renowned as New Zealand’s premier geothermal spa.} 

_{Ocean Spa Napier is in an idyllic waterfront location}

Hawke's Bay Trails Great Ride

After an exhilarating ride along the Hawke's Bay Trails, treat yourself to a rejuvenating swim at Ocean Spa Napier.

With panoramic ocean views, its open-air, heated and chlorinated pools and spas provide the perfect environment to wind down. There are toddler pools, a therapeutic pool with water fountains and pool jets, and two spacious outdoor spa pools. 

_{These open air pools are perfect for all ages. Photo: Ocean Spa}

_{A wood-fired tub after a day ride is a great way to unwind}

Old Ghost Road Great Ride  

Enjoy some well-deserved down-time after your Old Ghost Road adventure.

Soak, unwind and watch the sun set in a wood-fired hot tub at Gentle Annie Seaside Accommodation and Camping Ground.

Surrounded by lush nikau bush, relax in the fresh, clean spring water in one of three tubs that seat up to six people. 

_{Relax in fresh spring water at the Gentle Annie hot tubs} 

_{Cow Stream hot pools are a welcome sight}

St James Cycle Trail Great Ride

One of the delights of the St James Cycle Trail is soaking in the hot pools at Cow Stream. It’s just a short diversion off the trail, 15km from the Homestead end. 

To get there, it’s a fantastic day trip from the Homestead end. Ride up the Homestead Run to Peters Pass, then take the new Waterfall Bypass down into the Edwards Valley.

Then, 14.5km from the Homestead is the second Edwards River crossing and the sign to turn left. The 4WD trail climbs on to the river terrace and 1.2km along at the mouth of the Cow Stream valley, look over the terrace edge.

From there you'll see the first pool. Continue downstream 50m and just around the corner are three beautiful pools - you can even pick your temperature! 

_{Check out the Cow Stream hot pool location before you ride}

_{Onsen Hot Pools are a must-do in Queenstown. Photo: Destination Queenstown}

Queenstown Trails Great Ride 

After exploring the super-scenic 150km network of Queenstown Trails, treat yourself to complete tranquillity at Onsen Hot Pools.

Described as the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation, this boutique retreat and day spa is tucked away from the hustle of central Queenstown and offers a range of options to suit all relaxation needs. 

There are private, cedar-lined hot tubs with breathtaking views over the Shotover River. Onsen is also home to a tranquil day spa with high quality therapists delivering an extensive range of face and body treatments.

_{Hot tubs at Onsen Hot Pools boast breathtaking views. Photo: Destination Queenstown}

_{Soak up spectacular views at Tekapo Springs. Photo: Tekapo Springs}

Alps 2 Ocean Great Ride

If you’re riding the Alps 2 Ocean Great Ride, take advantage of the two amazing hot pools nearby. 

Experience true luxury with Hot Tubs Omarama. The sustainable hot tubs feature locally-sourced wood and pure New Zealand mountain water for the ultimate relaxation experience.  

Among the natural beauty of a pristine alpine environment at Lake Tekapo is Tekapo Springs. At the heart of the complex are three hot pools and an aqua play area with two cooler pools. There are steam and sauna rooms, a cold plunge pool and a glacial day spa overlooking the pools.  

Read more about the Great Rides and download a map of the whole network here