Photo: Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
Welcome to Hanmer Forest Adventure Park, an adrenaline-packed playground nestled in the heart of Hanmer Springs' towering pines. This is where you swap the thermal pools for mountain bikes, treetop walks, and flying foxes — all set against a backdrop of ancient redwoods and fresh alpine air. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a family looking for outdoor fun, this park offers a full day of action in one of New Zealand's most scenic forest settings.
Highlights & What to See
- Mountain biking trails — From gentle family loops to flowy intermediate tracks and technical downhill runs, the park's network offers something for every skill level. The purpose-built jumps and berms are a hit with riders.
- Tree Top Walkway — A series of suspension bridges and platforms that take you high into the forest canopy, offering bird's-eye views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
- Flying Fox & Zipline — Soar through the trees on a dual zipline that lets you race your mate across a clearing. It's short but sweet, and kids love it.
- Forest trails for walkers — If biking isn't your thing, the park has well-marked walking tracks that wind through the redwood and pine groves, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a trail run.
- Hanmer Springs — While not in the park itself, the famous thermal pools are just a 5-minute drive away, making it easy to combine a day of adventure with a relaxing soak.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least half a day (3–4 hours) to enjoy the key activities — a couple of hours biking, plus time for the treetop walk and zipline. If you're a keen mountain biker, you could easily spend a full day exploring every trail. For a relaxed visit, combine the park with a morning in Hanmer Springs village and an afternoon at the pools.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — The ultimate après-adventure soak, just a short drive away.
- Conical Hill Walk — A short but steep hike right in the forest offering panoramic views of the Hanmer basin.
- Marble Hill Walk — A scenic riverside trail through beech forest, ideal for a gentle walk or birdwatching.
- Waiau River — Popular for jet boating, kayaking, and fishing during summer months.
- Kaikōura — About 1.5 hours north, famous for whale watching, seal colonies, and fresh seafood.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Conical Hill Walk — Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / CC BY 4.0
- Marble Hill Walk — Shadowgate / CC BY 2.0
- Waiau River — CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kaikōura — Clilly4 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Mountain Biking in Hanmer Forest — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0