ST CLAIR HOT SALT WATER POOL, DUNEDIN
Aotearoa’s answer to Bondi’s iconic pool, St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool, is another saltwater offering, positioned at the end of
its namesake beach. Without doubt one New Zealand’s most impressive outdoor pools, it has been hosting bathers since the late 19th century – a unique experience that affords the loveliest ocean views and an atmosphere to match. The heated lane pool (28C) is accompanied by a paddling pool and hosts activities like aqua jogging.
PARNELL BATHS, AUCKLAND
This seaside hotspot as been entertaining Aucklanders for more than a century. The 60-metre saltwater lane pool – the largest of its kind Aotearoa – is accompanied by heated lido and spa pools. The interactive aqua playground along with toddlers’ area family pool means that there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained – as well as ice cream and hot chips from the cafe.
LUSTY’S LAGOON, LAKE TAUPŌ HOLIDAY RESORT
This one takes holiday vibes to another level being New Zealand’s only lagoon-style pool that features a swim-up bar. But this place doesn’t just cater to the adults thanks to an onsite ice cream parlour and a children’s pool – and that’s before you get to the water slides and fountains and a diving cave. A giant screen means guests can catch a movie from the comfort of a sun lounger or heated pool once the sun goes down.
ŌPUKE THERMAL POOLS AND SPA, METHVEN
The soothing and sophisticated Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa are “sourced from the mountains and warmed by the sun”. An adult-exclusive area features a swim-up bar and solar powered tubs while the day spa offers signature treatments that blend traditional Māori and modern techniques. Family friendly zones host a lazy river and starlit caves, all under the spectacular gaze of the towering Southern Alps.
MOUNT HOT POOLS, MOUNT MAUNGANUI
Though the Mount Hot Pools bathe in the shadow of the gorgeous Mauao there’s plenty of warmth courtesy of pools that range from 32-39°C and that are infused with natural salt that promises to help restore mineral balance (ocean water is pumped in via nearby Pilot Bay). Other treats include private pools and massage treatments. Come nightfall, the outdoor complex takes on a whole different kind of magic.
