Thermal springs, lush forest, massage and pamper – we’ve found some of the most luxurious spots to relax and unwind in the North Island, ranging from exclusive high-end spas to open wilderness hot springs.

The geothermal capital of Aotearoa is awash with natural hot springs to melt all your troubles away. At Hell’s Gate you can experience the healing properties of a bubbling mud spa. Polynesian Spa specialises in relaxing mineral hot pools, and ancient wellness treatments at the day spa. For an all-natural thermal water experience in the wilderness, find your way out of town to Kerosene Creek, where you can sit in the heat of a natural hot spring in a freshwater stream surrounded by native bush.

Wairakei Resort

Taupō’s Wairakei Resort is a full leisure and relaxation escape, starting with nine holes of golf or a round of tennis followed by a soak and pamper at the spa, rounded off by exquisite local cuisine and comfortable hotel accommodation. Set in the heart of the leafy Wairakei Thermal Valley, the resort has its own geothermal hot pools just a stone’s throw from the tourism hub of Taupō.

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs

One of New Zealand’s top luxury lodges, The Lodge is nestled on a clifftop in the beautiful Bay of Islands. This resort is home to luxe accommodation, panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean, a tranquil day spa, and one of the country’s top golf courses. The Signature BBQ at Pink Beach is a special experience, in which a Kauri Cliffs chef prepares fresh seafood, beef or lamb on an outdoor grill while you enjoy the serenity of your own private beach.

Hot Water Beach

Get your relaxation direct from nature – all you need is a spade and some digging determination to make your own al fresco hot pool on the beach at this famous Coromandel spot. A hot underground spring bubbles up from beneath the sand, and anyone can tap into it at low tide.

WaiOra Lakeside Spa Resort

This award-winning Rotorua spa uses mineral-rich mud and traditional mirimiri healing practises used by Māori for hundreds of years. Enjoy a luxurious treatment at the spa, soak in the hot pools and enjoy the expert service of the friendly staff.

Ocean Spa

The sweeping ocean views from the raised outdoor spas at Napier’s resident hot pools complex are hard to beat. It’s the perfect spot to let your head drop back and just luxuriate in your surroundings. Visit after dark for a particularly peaceful, atmospheric experience.

Mount Hot Pools

Hot salt water bathing was good enough for the ancient Greeks, and you can test their theories about its healing properties at Mount Hot Pools. Placesd squarely at the base of Mauao Mount Maunganui, the water for the pools is pumped from deep in Pilot Bay and heated to between 32 and 40 degrees for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The complex also offers a range of massage therapies.

The Lost Spring

Immerse yourself in a total restorative experience at The Lost Spring in Whitianga, where the luxury of geothermal pools is taken to the next level with poolside cocktails and platters, as well as a full array of treatments in a tree-top day spa.

Taupō DeBretts Spa Resort

This resort has the full recreation package for kids and adults, with a dragon hydroslide, racing slide and warm water playground as well as mineral hot pools, private indoor pools, and spa treatments.