Top South Island Traditional Wellness

Watershed is a floating sauna experience on Lake Whakatipu, where guests cycle between hot Finnish saunas and cold lake plunges while surrounded by Queenstown’s alpine scenery. Designed around the classic rhythm of contrast therapy, guests move between sauna heat, cold water and moments of rest on the deck overlooking the mountains. Most people naturally fall into a pattern of sauna, plunge, rest, then repeat. Located just minutes from central Queenstown, Watershed offers a calm space on the water that feels surprisingly removed from the town centre. Guests often visit after a day hiking, skiing or exploring the region, or simply to slow down and reset. The experience suits couples, friends and anyone curious about contrast therapy, and is especially popular as a winter ritual after a day in the mountains.

Hanmer Springs is a resort town known for its natural hot pools. Open mid-morning until late evening, these popular pools are a great place to replenish yourself after a long walk or to take the kids during the day. By booking your tickets in advance, you can drop in at any time and avoid the disappointment of getting turned away, especially during the pool’s busy weekends.

Watershed’s private sauna experience takes place on a floating pontoon on Lake Whakatipu, with uninterrupted views of the surrounding alpine landscape. Enjoy exclusive use of your own sauna, deck and plunge pool, allowing privacy and flexibility throughout the session. Located just minutes walk from central Queenstown, it offers a rare combination of seclusion, scenery and easy access that sets it apart from traditional land-based spas.

- Immerse yourself in nature as you soak your muscles in a solar-warmed hot pool - Sit back and relax as you enjoy views of the Southern Alps - Treat yourself to a beverage or local fare from the swim-up bar - Relax in the quiet of the Tranquility Pools and enjoy an adult-only experience - Explore the Tranquility Pools in comfort with a complimentary robe and towel

Enjoy 90 minutes in the heart of Queenstown at The Bathhouse Spa Queenstown, a self guided, phone free and alcohol free sanctuary for complete restoration. Move at your own pace between a 38°C hot pool, a 34°C ambient pool and a 12°C cold plunge, then warm in a traditional Finnish sauna with fireplace, two infrared saunas and a scented steam room. Relax in two tea lounges with premium teas and chilled water. Visits include unlimited 100% cotton towels, Sans[ceuticals] toiletries and Dyson hair appliances in elegant change rooms. Self guided sessions suit brisk contrast therapy or a lingering unwind after skiing, hiking, biking or winery visits. Located 400 m from the lakefront and CBD, The Bathhouse offers a refined ritual of comfort, calm and considered detail.

Embark on a scenic journey from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, renowned for its therapeutic thermal pools nestled amidst picturesque alpine landscapes. This tour uniquely combines relaxation and adventure, offering activities such as jet boating, hiking, and mountain biking on world-class trails. En route, indulge in local cuisine at charming cafés and opt for a wine tasting at Waipara's esteemed wineries, ensuring a memorable experience that caters to diverse interests

Travel Recovery Head Spa in Christchurch Overview / Description: This session begins with a slow, therapeutic head massage that stimulates circulation, soothes the nervous system, and eases fatigue caused by travel, stress, or sleeplessness. Drawing from traditional Chinese wellness practices, the treatment also includes gentle pressure point work to help restore energy flow throughout the body. In addition to relaxation, this experience incorporates a nourishing hair care ritual using herbal-infused oils and warm towel compression. Your scalp and hair are cared for with natural ingredients to leave you feeling refreshed, both inside and out. Highlights: 75-minute full head spa treatment Extended therapeutic head massage with pressure point focus Herbal oil nourishment for scalp and hair Warm towel wrap for deep absorption and comfort Relaxing tea service included after the session English-speaking therapist in a private room

Treat yourself to a little “me” time during a massage of your choice in Queenstown. Step inside the massage center solo, or bring your special someone along for a romantic experience together. Choose from a range of treatments such as deep tissue, maternity, and hot stone massages, or reflexology. Take a break from your busy travel schedule or recover after skiing or hiking adventures in Queenstown.

There’s fun and relaxation for all ages in the Discovery Pools: • Float the lazy river 36 °C • Discover the stars of Matariki in our cave 37 °C • Brave the cold plunge • Leap into the jump pool • Enjoy the Aqua Play Zone • Relax and enjoy mountain views from the observation pools

Experience traditional Chinese healing in the heart of Christchurch with this 60-minute Gua Sha Facial — a rare opportunity to enjoy ancient beauty therapy in a modern wellness setting. Unlike standard facials, this immersive ritual uses natural stone tools to gently stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, helping to de-puff, detoxify, and rejuvenate your skin without chemicals. Perfect for wellness seekers, or those recovering from long travel, this experience combines cultural authenticity with expert care. It’s not just a treatment — it’s a calming ritual for both skin and spirit.

Immerse yourself in tranquility with a sauna and ice bath session by the beautiful Kawarau River in Queenstown. Choose between a communal session to connect with others or a private experience featuring guided sauna rounds and breathwork during the cold plunge. Enjoy 75 minutes in the public session or have a private session with 75 minute and 2.5 hour options. Unwind in our traditional wood-fired barrel sauna with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees celsius, then cool off in the river or an ice bath. Surrounded by stunning views, this experience promotes mindfulness and recovery, complemented by a cozy fire pit and herbal tea.