Hanmer Springs Attractions

140km north of Christchurch, situated in a sheltered hollow at an altitude of 366 m, is the spa and holiday resort of Hanmer Springs (pop. 1,200), noted for its abundant thermal springs. It is a quiet little place, surrounded by Hanmer Forest, with the hills of the Hanmer Range (skiing in winter) as a backdrop.

The springs, which had long been used by the Maoris for therapeutic purposes, are said to have been discovered in 1859 by the manager of a farm at Culverton. Soon afterwards the government built a sanatorium, a psychiatric clinic and a soldiers' convalescent home.