Jordan McCraeWe all know how Auckland’s weather can get cold and windy, like a lot! That’s why having a soak in hot water is always a good idea to relax and rejuvenate.
If you’re looking for the perfect natural hot spring or a swimming pool to dip your toes in, we’ve got you! Here, we’re dishing out the scoop on the best hot pools in and near Auckland for you to try!
- Kaitoke Hot Springs
- Point Erin Pools
- The Olympic Pools and Fitness Centre
- Parnell Baths
- Tepid Baths
- Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences
- Cordis Auckland
- West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre
- The Hilton Auckland
- Float Culture
- Palm Springs Geothermal Springs
- Swim Zone Te Aroha
- Te Aroha Mineral Spas
- Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park
- Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park
- Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel
- The Lost Spring Whitianga
- Polynesian Spa
- Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa
- Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
Kaitoke Hot Springs
– Media credit: riparide.nz
Website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation
Address: Great Barrier Island / Aotea 0991, New Zealand
Contact Information: 0800 275 362
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free
Auckland has a natural hot spring you can visit just from Whangaparapara Road. You’ll need to take a 30 to 40-minute walk before getting here, but it’s worth it because it’s remote and perfect for a relaxing time.
Kaitoke Hot Springs is natural and untouched and gets hot water from the ground, with the temperatures usually ranging from about 40°C to 45°C, but can still vary. So, take your time and get comfortable first before taking a dip.
| Pro Tip: Remember not to put your head under the water because it’s hot. There’s also a warning for amoebic meningitis, which causes brain infection and can enter through the nose. |
Point Erin Pools
– Media credit: birdfive
Website: https://www.clmnz.co.nz/pt-erin-pool/
Address: 94 Shelly Beach Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 376 6863
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission:
- Adult – $7.20
- Child (16 and under) – Free (main pool only)
- Supervising Adult – $4.50
- Senior Citizen/Student – $5.30
Point Erin Pools is the ultimate family-friendly place right in Herne Bay. There’s a giant inflatable at the main pool for kids, complete with a playground nearby if they want to dry off without stopping the fun.
Although the main pool isn’t hot at 21.8°C since it’s mainly for swimming, the spa pool is warm at 34.2°C. Sure, it’s not too hot, but it’s safe for everyone to splash around.
| Pro Tip: If you have a furry companion, keep your eye out for dog swimming events. In 2023, Point Erin Pools hosted the absolute treat, “Bark in the Pool” by Bark New Zealand, where dogs had a blast splashing around before the pools closed for the winter. |
The Olympic Pools and Fitness Centre
– Media credit: theolympic.co.nz
Website: https://www.theolympic.co.nz/
Address: 77 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 522 4414
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission:
Casual Pool
- Adult – $10
- Senior- $6
- Child – $6
- Student – $9
- Family (2 Adults and up to 3 Children) – $24.00
The Olympic Pools & Fitness Centre is the place to try if you’re looking to get fit—but with the option of relaxing in a heated pool. The Olympic Pool is 50m long, and just a few steps from the end, you’ll see the heated spa pool.
The spa pool is warm and shallow enough that it’s easy to walk around. And when you’re ready to change, there’s an available individual changing area available for all genders.
| Pro Tip: If you’re into taking photos to capture memories, make sure there isn’t anyone in the background of your selfies. They have a strict policy regarding photos and videos that capture other people without consent. |
Parnell Baths
– Media credit: parnellbaths
Website: https://www.clmnz.co.nz/parnell-baths/
Address: Judges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 373 3561
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission:
- Adult – $7.70
- Child (16 and under) – Free
- Senior Citizen/Student – $5.80
- Spectator – $1.40
A mainstay in Auckland is Parnell Baths, which has been around since 1914. A family-friendly place, it has a saltwater pool for adults and kids, as well as an aqua playground and a long inflatable course.
The adult spa pool has a warm temperature of 38°C, while the toddler’s spa pool is just 30°C to keep them comfortable and not too hot. The pools are huge, too, so there’s plenty of room for everyone, even on weekends!
| Pro Tip: You can bring a packed lunch for your kid, and there’s a rule of only one drink per person. Avoid buying takeaways because these are not allowed, as well as 1.5L or 2.25L beverages. |
Tepid Baths
– Media credit: chris_chong88
Website: https://aucklandleisure.co.nz/locations/tepid-baths/
Address: 100 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 379 4745
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Admission:
- Casual Pass
- Adult – $9
- Child (16 and under) – Free
- Supervising Adult – $5.50, up to 2 children under 5
There are three pools at the Tepid Baths you can try. The lane pool, with a temperature of 27°C and seven lanes 25m long, is perfect for swimming.
You join the learner’s pool if you require access to a ramp and if you prefer 32°C waters. But a hotter option is the spa pool, which is maintained at a toasty 39°C.
| Pro Tip: You can book swimming lessons here, even if you’re an adult. The price per class is only $15.40. |
Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences
– Media credit: avani_nz
Website: https://www.avanihotels.com/en/metropolis-auckland
Address: 40 Kitchener Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Information: +66 2 365 9110
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Admission: Complimentary for guests
The stylish Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences hits all the marks for a short vacation. It’s near a shopping district, has a pool, and is a short walk away from restaurants and the Auckland Art Gallery.
The decent-sized heated pool is also indoors, so there are no worries about cold winds when getting out of the water. It also comes with huge windows to get the best city views to complete your relaxing and warm stay.
| Pro Tip: Always check the current offers before booking a stay to save some dollars. You can join the Discovery Program for free to get discounted rates. |
Cordis Auckland
– Media credit: cordis_auckland
Website: https://www.cordishotels.com/en/auckland/
Address: 83 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 379 5132
Operating Hours: Pool – Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 9:30 pm
Admission: Complimentary for hotel guests
A short escape from a busy life is a night at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland. They have a 27°C rooftop pool, but if that’s not hot enough, you can dip your toes in the spa pool with a warm temperature of 37°C for a nice, relaxing soak.
Kids are welcome to splash around, while parents can sunbathe at the sunbeds and pick up a drink or two from the bar. It’s the perfect relaxation time for the whole family!
| Pro Tip: Check their website or contact them before booking a stay if you want a dip in the pool. Their rooftop pool is currently undergoing maintenance but is slated to finish around the end of February. |
West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre
– Media credit: westwavepoolsandleisure
Website: https://aucklandleisure.co.nz/locations/west-wave-pool-and-leisure-centre/
Address: 20 Alderman Drive, Henderson, Auckland 0612, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 301 0101
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 5:30 am – 9:30 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
Admission:
- Adult pool – $9
- Spectator – $1
- Child (16 and under) – Free
West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre has something for the whole family because there are several pools to try. But for hot waters, go to the 39°C adult spa pool or bring the kids to the family spa pool, which is as warm as 36°C.
| Pro Tip: Always check their socials for pool closure updates because they often do maintenance or events. |
The Hilton Auckland
– Media credit: hiltonauckland
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/aklhihi-hilton-auckland/
Address: 147 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Information: +64 9 978 2000
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission: Complimentary for hotel guests
Enjoy a heated lap pool smack in the middle of The Hilton Auckland. It has a glass edge as a viewing window with views of the harbour. Be ready, though, because if you’re on the glass edge, people will probably take pictures of you because of how cool it looks.
| Pro Tip: Sign up for Hilton Honors to get discounted rates on rooms. It’s free to join! |
Float Culture
– Media credit: floatculturenz
Website: https://floatculture.co.nz/
Address: 12 Water Street, Grafton, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
Contact Information: 09 281 4648
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Admission: Single Float – $110
Float Culture brings you tranquility by taking you to an egg-shaped floatation tank with a water temperature of 35.5°C. It’s the absolute place to relax and meditate as you float all on your own in a saturated Epsom salt solution.
| Pro Tip: Don’t shave before floating. The Epsom salt can irritate your skin. |
Palm Springs Geothermal Springs
– Media credit: palmsprings_parakai
Website: https://www.palmspringsparakai.co.nz/
Address: 155 Parkhurst Road, Parakai 0830, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 45.9 km – 55.7 km (depending on the route)
Contact Information: 09 420 8321
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Wednesday – Saturday – 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Tuesday: Closed
- Sunday: 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission:
- Adult (16+) – $24
- Children (4 – 15) – $13
- Children under 4 – Free
- Senior (65+) – $16
- Family ( 2 adults & 2 children) – $68
A 50-minute drive from Auckland, you’ll get to Palm Springs Geothermal Pools. Here, you’ll find three hot pools with naturally heated water from the ground.
All pools are hot, perfect for the cold weather. The lower pool’s temperature ranges from 34°C to 36°C, the upper pool is between 38°C to 40°C, and the hottest is the rock pool at 40°C to 42°C.
| Pro Tip: Remember to bring swimming nappies for your child if they aren’t potty trained yet. It saves you from purchasing one at Palm Springs for $3. |
Swim Zone Te Aroha
– Media credit: swimzonepools
Website: http://swimzonepools.co.nz/our-facilities/swim-zone-te-aroha
Address: Te Aroha Domain, Off Boundary St, Te Aroha 3320, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 138.9 km
Contact Information: 07 884 4498
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (General Public)
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Admission:
- Adults – $7
- Seniors – $6
- Children – $4
- Family Pass (2 adults, up to 3 children) – $21
Swim Zone is family-friendly, offering swimming classes and leisurely activities. Plus, it has three locations within driving distance of Auckland: Te Aroha, Matamata, and Morrinsville.
Both kids and adults will have a blast, as the main pool gets as hot as 31°C during the summer and up to 33°C during winter. The toddler’s pool maintains the same temperatures but with a sloped floor for safety.
If that’s not hot enough for you, try the spa pool. The temperature here stays at 38°C to melt away all the stress.
| Pro Tip: If you want to try the spa pool, avoid going on Tuesdays because they close it for cleaning. But you can go any other day! |
Te Aroha Mineral Spas
– Media credit: tearohamineralspas
Website: https://www.tearohamineralspas.co.nz/
Address: 5B-Boundary Street, Te Aroha 3320, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 138.9 km
Contact Information: 07 884 8717
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission:
- Adult – $28 – $41
- Child – $11 – $20
- Senior/Medical – $21 – $31
Ever wondered what it felt like to get cooked in a barrel? No? Okay, that’s a little grim, but here at Te Aroha Mineral Spas, you’ll enjoy soaking in warm waters in a wooden tub.
The best part of it all is you can switch the temperatures and enjoy the hot, silky mineral waters. There’s a romance package deal, too, perfect for Valentine’s Day!
| Pro Tip: You can get a discounted rate by going on a Tuesday or Wednesday with a minimum of two people, except on public holidays. Oh, and book a reservation for a sure spot! |
Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park
– Media credit: athenreehotsprings
Website: https://www.athenreehotsprings.co.nz/
Address: 1 Athenree Road, Athenree, Waihi Beach 3177, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 152.9 km
Contact Information: +64 7 863 5600
Operating Hours:
- Guests – Monday – Sunday: 8:30 am – 7.30 pm
- Public – Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:30 pm
Admission: Free for guests
- Adults – $10
- Seniors – $8.00
- Children (1 – 12) – $7.00
- Family Pass (2 adults, 2 children) – $30.00
Saturday Pricing
- Adults – $12.00
- Seniors – $10.00
- Children (1-12) – $9.00
Located in the Bay of Plenty region, Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park is a home away from home. Swimming at the pools feels like being in your backyard because the place is like a house but with a hotel treatment.
There are two natural mineral pools, with the largest having a temperature of 33°C to 35°C, while the smaller one stays at 39°C—there are heated floors here, too!
| Pro Tip: Before taking a dip on a public holiday weekend, it’s best to call them first because they close the pools to the public depending on the number of guests. |
Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park
Website: https://www.opalhotsprings.co.nz/
Address: 257 Okauia Springs Road, Okauia 3471, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 169.9 km
Contact Information:
- 07 888 8198
- [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission:
- Adults (14+) – $8
- Children (1 – 13) – $4
- Under 1yr – Free
- Senior – $6
Family Pass
- 2 Adults & 2 – 3 Children – $22
- 1 Adult & up to 5 Children – $22
If you’re looking for a no-frills hot pool, then drive to Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park. It’s only a 25-minute drive from the famous Hobbiton Movie Set village, where Frodo Baggins lived in The Lord of the Rings trilogy!
As for the pools, you can enjoy a warm, relaxing dip at their mineral thermally heated private spa pool, which has a temperature of 38°C. There’s also a maximum of six to eight people allowed, making it ideal for a quiet time.
Meanwhile, the private Ramaroa pool is really warm at 40°C and is surrounded by bamboo, adding a forest vibe during your soak. You can’t stay here alone, though, so bring someone because at least two people are required for safety precautions.
| Pro Tip: If you have a child under three years old, bring a swimming nappy so you won’t have to purchase one on-site for $2. |
Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel
– Media credit: _hibarbie_
Website: https://www.okohotel.co.nz/
Address: 18 Somerville Road, Okoroire 3485, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 173.4 km
Contact Information: 07 883 4876
Operating Hours: Hot Springs – Monday – Sunday: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Admission: Complimentary for hotel guests
Okoire Hot Springs Hotel is the perfect destination for a weekend trip. The cozy and traditional rooms, complete with modern comforts, are ready for you after a dip in one of the three hot pools.
A four-minute stroll from the hotel will lead you to their naturally heated hot pools, which are alongside the Waihou River. Despite being near a hotel, it feels isolated, perfect for a quiet, relaxing time.
Here, immerse yourself in the soothing warm waters with a temperature ranging from 37°C to 38°C. Just imagine hearing the water streams while soaking in a hot spring with soft sand at your feet—it’s heavenly, isn’t it?
| Pro Tip: If you’re opting for a weekend getaway, you can play a round of golf at the hotel. It’s one of the popular activities at this hotel, besides the hot pools. |
The Lost Spring Whitianga
– Media credit: thelostspringwhitianga
Website: https://www.thelostspring.co.nz/
Address: 121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 190.1 km
Contact Information:
- 07 866 0456 Ext. 1
- [email protected]
Operating Hours:
Geothermal Pools
- Friday – Saturday: 7:30 am – 9:00 pm, last entry is 7:00 pm
- Sunday: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm, last entry is 5:00 pm
Admission:
- 2 hours – $60
- 4 hours – $100
- Combo, 2 hours – $130
For a tranquil and blissful time, head over to The Lost Springs. Sure, it’s a ways away from Auckland, but the 190 km travel there is so worth it.
The geothermal pools are the perfect oasis, with the water temperature ranging from 32°C to 41°C and depth reaching only chest height. Plus, being here feels like a tropical paradise as you’re surrounded by rocks and trees, complete with poolside drink service.
| Pro Tip: A reservation is highly recommended. Since they’re not open daily, spots are limited each week. |
Polynesian Spa
– Media credit: polynesianspa
Website: https://www.polynesianspa.co.nz/
Address: 1000 Hinemoa Street, Lakeside, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Distance from Ackland: 230.8 km
Contact Information: 07 348 1328 Ext. 0
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm, last entry is 10:15 pm
Admission: Starting rates
- Lake Spa – $69.95
- Pavilion Pool – $39.95
- Lake View Private Pool – $11.95 – $44.95
A sanctuary away from all the hustle and bustle of life, Polynesian Pools is a paradise for ultimate relaxation. There are several hot pools available that come with acidic and alkaline mineral waters.
The Lake Pool is a perfect 38.5°C, while the Lake Spa ranges from 38°C to 41 °C. But do check out the acidic mineral pool at the pavilion, which maintains water temperatures between 39°C and 41°C.
| Pro Tip: Remember to bring swimwear because it’s required in the pools. If you have a baby, make sure to bring a swimming nappy to avoid paying for one on-site. |
Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa
– Media credit: hellsgatenz
Website: https://www.hellsgate.co.nz/
Address: 351 State Highway 30, Tikitere, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 241.5 km
Contact Information: +64 7 345 3151
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (subject to change on September 30, 2024)
Admission:
- Adult – $85
- Child – $42.50
Hell’s Gate is a must-try, being the only mud spa in New Zealand and the most active geothermal park. Go ahead and exfoliate your skin by lathering mud all over, and then move to the warm sulphur spa to rejuvenate, with waters ranging from 37°C to 41°C.
| Pro Tip: Steer clear from wearing light-coloured swimsuits as these may get discoloured. |
Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
– Media credit: taupodebretts
Website: https://www.taupodebretts.co.nz/
Address: 76 Napier-Taupo Road, Taupo, Taupō 3330, New Zealand
Distance from Auckland: 275.4 km
Contact Information: +64 7 378 8559
Operating Hours:
- Main Outdoor Pools – 8:30 am – 8:30 pm
- Private Pools – 8.30 am – 8:00 pm
- Hydroslides and Warm Water Playground – 8:30 am – 7:30 pm
Admission:
- Adults – $24
- Students (13-17) – $17
- Seniors (65+) – $11
- Children (4-12) – $13
- Children (3 and under) – $3
- Spectator – $3
Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort is the ultimate getaway from Auckland as it’s only three hours away. Once you’re there, you’ll get to soak in mineral waters, a relaxing temperature of 38°C to 41°C, which are perfect any day of the year!
One option to try is the outdoor hot pool if you want to be surrounded by lush trees. You can also check out the indoor pool for a more private dip, which also comes in different temperatures, so you’ll surely find the right one!
| Pro Tip: There are various activities for all ages at the resort, including free ones you can do. But always inquire at the front desk because some activities may be closed due to maintenance or weather. |
