Craig:
"Nestled in the magnificent South Island high country, the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa have, since
1879, attracted visitors seeking the benefits of its natural mineral waters and clean, clear, alpine air.” -the opening line from the Hanmer Springs brochure.
Well, the springs managed to attract two more visitors once again.
Bridget and I figured it was time for some feet soaking and relaxation so we stopped in at Hanmer Springs (how could you not with their alluring literature). The brochure makes it sound incredible. They claim that the thermal waters do the following things: help your body repair and rejuvenate, increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, nourishing vital organs and tissues, help kill harmful germs and viruses while stimulating the immune system, and help promote wonderful feelings of physical well being. We soaked in the pools for the better part of two hours and agreed that it was not the experience the brochure had touted it to be. Any place where you enter into a series of metal railings positioned as crowd control is probably going to be more like a trip to your local water park rather than a peaceful, serene, alpine getaway. The water slides, coin operated lockers, wrist bands, and hyper little children all confirmed our thoughts of the place. On the up side, we did get our first noseful of sulfur smell for the new year. I am hoping that a trip to Japan will be able to generate a better mineral pools experience.
I can only describe this last photo as maybe one that you would see at the end of “Outside” magazine as the “Parting Shot.” So here is your “parting shot” taken at our Hanmer Springs campsite as the clouds cleared that night.
Next Stop: Kaikoura
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