Glacier Hot Pools

Nestled in the heart of Fox Glacier village, the Glacier Hot Pools offer a blissful retreat after a day of exploring New Zealand's West Coast wilderness. Fed by natural mineral springs and heated to a soothing 36–40°C, these outdoor pools are surrounded by lush rainforest, with steam rising into the cool alpine air. Whether you're soaking under the stars or watching the mist roll over the Southern Alps, this is quintessential West Coast relaxation.

Highlights & What to See

• Main Hot Pool: A large, thermally heated pool perfect for a leisurely soak, with views of native ferns and towering kahikatea trees.
• Private Pools: Three smaller, secluded pools available for hire – ideal for couples or small groups wanting a more intimate experience.
• Cold Plunge Pool: For the adventurous, take a quick dip in the invigorating cold pool between hot soaks – a classic Scandinavian-style contrast therapy.
• Rainforest Setting: The pools are set within a serene native garden, with the sound of birdsong and the Fox River nearby.
• Evening Soak: Come after dark when the pools are lit by lanterns and the stars emerge – a magical end to any day.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least 1.5–2 hours to fully unwind. It's best visited in the late afternoon or evening as a post-hike reward – especially after walking the Fox Glacier or Lake Matheson trails. The pools are open daily from late morning until late evening, so you can easily fit a soak into a relaxed day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox Glacier – Just 5 km away, take a guided walk or heli-hike onto the glacier itself.
• Lake Matheson – A 15-minute drive, famous for its mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
• Gillespies Beach – A wild West Coast beach with a historic gold-mining settlement, 20 minutes south.
• Franz Josef Glacier – A 25-minute drive north, with its own hot pools, glacier walks, and the stunning Sentinel Rock Walk.
• Okarito Lagoon – A 45-minute drive, where you can kayak among white herons and spot kiwi on a night tour.

Please check official sources for current details.