Hanmer Springs travel guide

Hanmer has long been popular with Kiwi holiday-seekers, and has only recently come into its own as a top national tourist venue. Its biggest attraction is of course its impressive Thermal Reserve, but it is also very popular as a base for mountain biking and walking in the Hanmer Forest Park nearby and, in winter, as a base for the Hanmer and Mount Lyford ski fields. When winter snows lie on the ground or spring rain plays on the puddles, the hot pools are the perfect place to be. Hanmer offers a wide range of modern accommodation, some good restaurants and numerous activities from bungee jumping to horse trekking. The town is particularly beautiful in autumn when the forest and tree-lined streets are flush with golden hues and falling leaves. The name Hanmer derives from the name of Canterbury pioneer Thomas Hanmer, often misspelt.