Lewis Pass Thermal Springs

Hidden in the beech forests of the Lewis Pass National Reserve, these natural thermal springs offer a blissful soak amid untamed South Island scenery. Fed by mineral-rich waters bubbling up from deep within the earth, the pools are a perfect antidote to a day on the road. Unlike commercial complexes, Lewis Pass Thermal Springs remain delightfully rustic — just you, the steam rising into the cool mountain air, and the sound of the Maruia River rushing nearby.

Highlights & What to See

• Natural thermal pools: Two main pools — one hotter, one cooler — set in a forest clearing. The water is clear, hot (around 40–42°C), and rich in silica and minerals, leaving your skin silky smooth.
• Maruia River walk: A short track leads from the springs to the riverbank, where you can dip your toes in the glacier-fed water or simply admire the jade-green pools and rapids.
• Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve: The surrounding national reserve is crisscrossed with tramping trails, including the St James Walkway, which starts nearby and offers backcountry hiking through alpine meadows and ancient forests.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for native birds such as the kererū (wood pigeon), fantail, and the elusive great spotted kiwi — the area is a stronghold for this species.
• Photography at dawn or dusk: The soft light filtering through the canopy, combined with steam rising from the pools, creates an ethereal scene that’s perfect for capturing the essence of New Zealand’s wild beauty.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that 1–2 hours is ample time to enjoy the springs and a short wander along the river. If you’re planning a longer stop, consider combining your soak with a picnic lunch or a half-day hike on the nearby St James Walkway. The springs are easily slotted into a self-drive itinerary between Hanmer Springs and the West Coast — aim to arrive in the late afternoon when the crowds are thin and the light is golden.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs: Just a 40-minute drive south, this alpine village offers a larger thermal complex, mountain biking, bungy jumping, and the Hanmer Heritage Forest.
• Maruia Springs: A Japanese-style hot spring resort 15 minutes north, with indoor and outdoor pools overlooking the river, plus onsen accommodation.
• Lewis Pass National Reserve: Explore more of the reserve’s tramping tracks, including the short Alpine Nature Walk or the longer Boyle River Loop.
• Reefton: An hour’s drive west, this historic gold-mining town features well-preserved Victorian buildings, a mining museum, and access to the Victoria Conservation Park.
• Murchison: Known as the whitewater capital of New Zealand, it’s a 45-minute drive north and offers kayaking, rafting, and the scenic Skyline Walkway.

Please check official sources for current details.