Hanmer Springs Activities

Hanmer Springs Adventure and Thermal Pools

Hanmer Springs sits about a two hour drive north of Christchurch, an alpine village built around a natural hot pools reserve and surrounded by beech forest, gorges and back country trails. Our Hanmer Springs tours and activities cover thermal pools, bungy jumping, quad biking, jet boating, white water rafting and more across North Canterbury.

Soak in the Thermal Pools

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools Entry gives access to a series of open air mineral pools set at different temperatures, plus water slides for anyone who wants more than a soak. It is the easiest way to spend an afternoon in the village, and pairs naturally with a full day of relaxation activities around the reserve.

Adrenaline in the Village

Hanmer Springs punches above its weight for adrenaline. Bungy Jumping off the historic Ferry Bridge over the Waiau River is the headline act, and the Quad Biking tour tackles forest trails and river flats on the same stretch of land. Ground based options include Claybird Shooting and Paintball Adventures, both run through native bush rather than an open field. Browse the full Hanmer Springs adrenaline range to compare everything on offer.

On the Water: Jet Boating and White Water Rafting

The Waiau Gorge carves through the hills just outside the village, and Jet Boating Waiau Gorge covers it at speed, spinning through narrow canyon walls in a jet boat built for the terrain. The White Water Rafting trip takes the same gorge at a slower, paddle powered pace through the rapids. Nearby on the Hurunui River, the Hurunui River Jet Boat Ride runs in both a 30 minute and a 45 minute option, and the Sea Blast extends the jet boating further along the Canterbury coast for anyone touring between Hanmer Springs and Christchurch.

Family Friendly Days and Combo Deals

For a full day covering more than one activity, the Hanmer Springs Double Activities Combo pairs two adventures into a single booking, a straightforward way to fit more into a short stay. The wider family friendly activities range and sightseeing options round out a Hanmer Springs itinerary for travellers of any age.

Why Book Your Hanmer Springs Activities with Everything New Zealand

We are your local travel partner across North Canterbury, not the operator, so we only list tours and activities we would genuinely recommend to family and friends. Compare thermal pools, bungy jumping, jet boating and more side by side, book online in a few minutes and get instant confirmation. Less scrolling, more strolling, straight into the hot pools.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Hanmer Springs from Christchurch? Hanmer Springs is about a two hour drive north of Christchurch, making it an easy day trip or overnight stop in North Canterbury.

What is there to do at Hanmer Springs besides the thermal pools? Beyond the pools, Hanmer Springs offers bungy jumping, quad biking, jet boating, white water rafting, claybird shooting and paintball, all within a short drive of the village.

Is bungy jumping at Hanmer Springs suitable for beginners? Yes, the Ferry Bridge bungy jump is a popular first time jump for visitors, with staff guiding every step from harness to leap.

Can I combine the thermal pools with an adventure activity in one day? Yes, most visitors pair a morning activity such as jet boating or quad biking with an afternoon soak in the thermal pools before heading back to Christchurch.

Is jet boating on the Waiau Gorge different from the Hurunui River trips? Yes, the Waiau Gorge trip runs through a narrow canyon closer to Hanmer Springs village, while the Hurunui River rides operate further along the coastal route toward Christchurch.