Travelling from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs with the Toddlersaurus in tow was exactly the kind of adventure we love: scenic, fun filled, and unexpectedly perfect. We already expected Hanmer to be beautiful, but it somehow managed to surpass our expectations.
Where We Stayed: Hanmer Springs Holiday Park
Our base for the trip was the Hanmer Springs Holiday Park, and it was a total winner. We stayed in a studio cabin — cosy, convenient, and perfect for a family of three. It gave Max space to toddle around safely while giving us a touch of comfort and privacy.
The park itself was fantastic for little ones:
A jumping pillow for burning off energy Bike hire for older kids (Max isn’t quite there yet, but the stroller-friendly paths worked perfectly) Beautiful grounds with plenty of greenery and space to explore
It’s one of those places where you feel welcome, relaxed, and ready for both adventure and downtime. A great family-friendly option for Hanmer Springs.
The Main Event: Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
No trip to Hanmer Springs is complete without a visit to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa. This isn’t just your average hot-springs spot — it’s a full-on water wonderland.
We visited in summer, which was ideal: sunny weather, warm pools, and plenty of fun for all ages. Max loved splashing around, and the hydroslides were a hit for the whole family.
You can easily spend an entire day.. or two here! Between the thermal pools, small child waterpark areas, and hydro slides, it’s a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
Exploring Hanmer: Walks, Fairy Garden, and the Alpine Village
Hanmer Springs isn’t just about water. There’s a charming walking track near the village, which winds through bushland and leads to a small fairy garden — a hit with toddlers and a peaceful escape for adults.
The town itself is unexpectedly picturesque: alpine-style buildings, tree-lined streets, and that peaceful mountain atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a postcard.
We also took a scenic drive into the nearby national park areas — strategically timed for Max’s nap. We’re big fans of a car nap, and it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a peaceful scenic drive. Rolling hills, pristine greenery, and distant peaks made it easy to soak in the scenery while Max snoozed happily.
Our hot tips for Visiting Hanmer Springs With a Toddler or family
Stay at the Holiday Park – Studio cabins are perfect for small families. The jumping pillow and open grounds are toddler-friendly, and bike hire is great if you’ve got older kids. Plan for a full day at the Thermal Pools – Bring snacks, towels, and sun protection. Summer is ideal for combining warm pools and sunshine. Bring a stroller or carrier for walking tracks – The fairy garden and bushwalks are short and manageable, but Max was much happier in his travel trike. Schedule scenic drives for nap time – Rolling through the hills while Max sleeps makes the drives peaceful and enjoyable. Arrive early – Both the holiday park and water park can get busy during peak season, so early arrival helps you snag the best spots.
Final Verdict
Hanmer Springs is one of those rare places that delivers on all fronts: family-friendly, scenic, relaxing, and just plain beautiful. Max had a blast, we loved the relaxation, and the alpine village charm was the cherry on top.
If you’re planning a South Island trip, put Hanmer Springs on your list — especially in summer. You’ll get warm pools, cool slides, stunning scenery, and a welcoming place to call home for a few days.
Travelling The Dream 