New Regent Street

New Regent Street is a charming pedestrian mall in the heart of Hanmer Springs, lined with colourful heritage buildings that house boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. It's the perfect place to soak up the village atmosphere after a dip in the thermal pools or a day on the trails.

Highlights & What to See

• Heritage Architecture: Admire the well-preserved early 20th-century shopfronts with their pastel hues and ornate details – a photographer's delight.
• Boutique Shopping: Browse local art, jewellery, homewares, and New Zealand-made souvenirs at the independent stores.
• Café Culture: Grab a flat white at one of the sidewalk cafes and watch the world go by. Try the locally roasted coffee at Hanmer Springs Coffee.
• Hot Pools: A short walk away, the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa offer a relaxing soak after exploring the street.
• Conical Hill Walk: For panoramic views of the village and mountains, take the short, steep trail up Conical Hill – the trailhead is just off the street.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours strolling the street and popping into shops and cafes. If you plan to combine it with the thermal pools or a short walk, allocate half a day to enjoy the area at a leisurely pace. It's an easy stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Canterbury region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Just a 5-minute walk away, these natural hot pools are the main draw of the village.
• Hanmer Forest – A network of walking and mountain biking trails through towering redwoods and pines, starting from the village edge.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge – A historic bridge and popular spot for bungy jumping and jet boat rides.
• Molesworth Station – New Zealand's largest farm, accessible via a scenic 4WD tour from Hanmer Springs.
• Kaikōura – A 1.5-hour drive north, famous for whale watching, seal colonies, and seafood.

Please check official sources for current details.