If this year has felt like one big blur of busyness, you're not alone. We hate to break it to you, but we're already one-third of the way through 2022. After a stacked summer, we're more than ready for a rejuvenating holiday this autumn.
The crew over at 100% Pure New Zealand are on the same wavelength, so we've teamed up to help you take on a relaxing escape this season. As the temperature drops, it's the perfect excuse to book in at a hot tub, spa or wellness retreat.
Waiho Hot Tub Experience
Franz Josef Glacier
What's more serene than sliding into a wood-fired hot tub? Opting for one tucked away in the abundant rainforests of the West Coast. At Waiho Hot Tubs you'll be surrounded by dense native greenery, the song of chirping birds and the comforting scent of wood smoke. Add a BYO bottle of vino, and you've got a recipe for restfulness.
Akaroa Glamping
Akaroa
Hit reset on your mind, body and soul with a few nights in nature, thanks to Akaroa Glamping. With two idyllic sites to choose from, these abodes make the most of their prime location on the Banks Peninsula. Enveloped by native bush and decked out in calming earth tones, there's no better place to step back and indulge in some you-time. Run yourself an outdoor bubble bath, pour a glass of savvy b and call it a night.
Kamana Soak
Queenstown
Let's be clear, Kamana Soak might just have the best view of any hot pool in New Zealand. These private hot tubs are available just for the lucky guests of Kamana Lakehouse, a picture-perfect hotel perched high on a hill just above Queenstown central. This vantage point gives their hot tubs an unparalleled view of Lake Whakatipu and the Remarkables mountains. Follow up a soak with a tipple at their bar before nodding off in their well-appointed hotel suites.
Hapuku Lodge And Tree Houses
Kaikoura
First place on our New Zealand bucket list certainly goes to Hapuku Lodge And Tree Houses. This one-of-a-kind destination is all about connecting with nature—the lodge even offers luxury treehouses nestled above a native Kanuka forest. Each treehouse is perfectly positioned to take in the surrounds with wide-open windows, an impressive soaking tub and a cosy fireplace. You might just never want to leave.
Waikite Valley Thermal Pools
Waikite Valley
Soak up something different with a trip to Waikite Valley Thermal Pools. You'll be treated to waters from the largest pure geothermal spring in the country. There are six pools to choose from or opt for luxury with a private spa surrounded by lush greenery and moody clouds of steam. Pick up the private pool package, and you'll also score a snack platter to share—double win.
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
Aoraki Mount Cook
Forget 'Gram-worthy, wellness wanderlust is where it's at. Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is a one-stop destination to disconnect from the daily grind and nurture the things that matter. The location is nothing short of extraordinary; daylight delivers sun rays dancing across Lake Pukaki, while the dazzling sky reserve comes to life after dark. Experience all this with a luxury holiday package or book in for an upcoming wellness retreat.
Hells Gate
Rotorua
More than just a hot pool, Hells Gate is your chance to tap into the healing nature of geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water. Locals have used these tools for more than 800 years for their exfoliating, cleansing and soothing properties. Wrap up the experience with a dip in their cold plunge pool—that's certainly one way to feel refreshed.
He Puna Taimoana
Christchurch
He Puna Taimoana delivers something out of the ordinary for New Zealand hot pools; it's situated right on the beachfront. You'll instantly feel at ease upon entering the complex—the pools overlook the sandy shores of New Brighton beach and out to Pegasus Bay. There's no better way to experience this than with a sunrise soak in autumn. Start the day right with a two-hour session, cosy robe, complimentary mocktail and guided meditation.
Tekapo Springs
Tekapo
Soaking and stargazing, name a more dynamic duo. There's no better place to experience this perfect combo than with a stargazing experience at Tekapo Springs. You'll dive deep into the science and stories behind the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve on this two-hour tour. Even better, your seat will be a floating hammock in the cosy 37.5-degree hot pool.
Wairakei Terraces
Taupō
What's one way to nail an adventure day in Taupō? Top it off with a trip to the ethereal Wairakei Terraces. This adults-only spa complex makes the most of its home in the Wairakei valley, with three pools housing mineral-packed geothermal water. Our top tip in autumn is to book your session for sundown. The glistening blue waters and geothermal steam are a seriously dreamy backdrop for golden hour.
Treat yourself this autumn and add a relaxing destination to the top of your list.
Editor's note: this article was produced in partnership with 100% Pure New Zealand. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.