Take your R&R to the next level with some of the top resorts, spas, hot springs and wilderness retreats in the South Island. Soak in stunning natural surrounds and let your body and soul unwind in a bit of luxury.

Fable Terrace Downs Resort

Literally overlooking the Rakaia Gorge and its turquoise river, this resort is an recreation hub with fantastic facilities for relaxation. As well as luxury accommodation, Terrace Downs offers a range of activities such as golf, fishing and jet boating. Perfect for leaving your stresses behind and indulging in whatever style of diversion takes your fancy.

Hanmer Springs

Get yourself to this cute little Alpine village and enjoy a blissful soak in thermal hot pools, ranging from 34 to 42 degrees. Open all year round, this is one of the few places you can comfortably watch the snow fall around you from an open-air hot pool. Top off the experience with a massage, facial or body treatment at The Spa.

Millbrook Resort

This Queenstown resort is one of the South Island’s most luxurious, with a fabulous award-winning day spa, world-class golf course, health centre and beautiful modern-design-meets-log-cabin accommodation to really lose yourself in a world of leisure.

Tekapo Springs

Where else can you soak at night and stare at the stars in an International Dark Sky Reserve? This scenic mountain hot pools complex is filled with incredibly pure glacier water pumped from under the ground. It’s a combination of relaxation and recreation, with activities such as spa treatments and stargazing all year round, a water slide and inflatable playground in summer, and ice skating rink in winter.

Otahuna Lodge

The historic Otahuna Lodge near Christchurch is one of the best examples of Queen Anne architecture in Australasia. Stay in one of the seven luxe suites and unwind in the peaceful pastoral surrounds. Round off your relaxation with activities such as massage, guided fly fishing, and cooking classes.

Maruia Hot Springs

Lewis Pass between Canterbury and the West Coast is a lush mountainous area characterised by a braid river and abundant natural hot springs. Maruia Hot Springs harnesses the geothermal mineral water and the stunning views in an indulgent destination retreat. Stop and soak on your way through, or take the time to enjoy the day spa and boutique accommodation.

Glacier Hot Pools

Bliss out in the smooth glacial water of these hot pools tucked away in the heart of the West Coast rainforest, where you can relax and enjoy a secluded, tranquil experience surrounded by nature.

Matakauri Lodge

Utterly private and superbly located on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, a stay at this luxury lodge is a true escape. Drive the scenic Glenorchy-Queenstown road or boat right up to the private wharf and treat yourself to incredible fine dining, relaxing spa treatments and gorgeous accommodation, all topped off with stellar views of the lake and Central Otago mountains.

He Puna Taimoana

This Christchurch beachside complex’s hot pools range from a muscle-relaxing 39 degrees down to a refreshingly-chilly plunge pool. The top pool overlooks the beach and the sauna has a window so you can enjoy the heat while watching the waves break on the sand.