Onsen Hot Pools, New Zealand

What it is

Onsen Hot Pools is a bookable hot pool and day spa complex in Arthurs Point, about a 10 minute drive from central Queenstown. The headline experience is an exclusive-use cedar tub in a private-feeling room with river and canyon views. “Exclusive-use” matters: you are not sharing your tub with strangers, but the pool rooms sit beside each other, so you may still hear other guests.

How the visit works

This is a scheduled, managed venue. You book a time, arrive early, and follow their house rules (including compulsory swimwear). The predictability is the point, you are trading the romance of a wild soak for a controlled experience with staff, changing areas, and clear policies.

Good to know

Onsen is set below the road on a steep site above the Shotover River. That gives you the views, but it also shapes the access and the mobility realities. If anyone in your group has limited balance or stamina, read the access notes carefully and contact them before booking.

Onsen is at Arthurs Point Road in Arthurs Point, Queenstown, with limited on-site parking for cars and no space for large campervans. If you are driving, allow extra time in peak season and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in. They also run a complimentary shuttle that must be arranged with your booking, which is often the easiest option when Queenstown traffic is heavy.

From the car park, the route down to the main building is roughly 100 m on a gently sloping gravel track. After rain or frost the surface can feel loose, so wear shoes you trust. Bring swimwear (togs are compulsory) and consider a warm layer for after your soak, especially in winter. Towels are included with experiences, but always double-check your booking details before you arrive.

Queenstown is busy year-round now, but winter and summer evenings are the tightest. If you have a sunset plan, book well ahead and do not schedule a tight dinner reservation straight after, you will enjoy the soak more if you are not watching the clock.

This is best for couples, small groups, and anyone wanting a “special occasion” soak that still feels practical. It is also a solid recovery activity after skiing, hiking, or long travel days, because you can control the timing and avoid weather surprises.

Families: children under 5 are not allowed in the pool rooms at any time. Children aged 5 to 11 are allowed only in daytime windows (they specify 9am to 4pm), and evening sessions are restricted to guests aged 12+ to keep things quiet. If you are travelling with kids, treat this as a daytime activity and plan something else for the evening.

Mobility: the site is steep and spread over levels. They note wheelchair access can be arranged to some areas (including access to the lower pool level and day spa areas), but the cedar tubs themselves are reached via a small flight of stairs. For many wheelchair users, that means the core soaking experience may not be workable without assistance and a safe transfer. If accessibility is essential, contact them before booking and describe what you need in plain terms.

Expectations: this is a controlled environment with rules around food, alcohol, and swimwear. If you want a free-form soak, pick a different style of spring.

Overheating and dehydration are the main risks. Even if you feel fine sitting down, standing up quickly can make you lightheaded. Drink water, take breaks, and get out early if you feel dizzy. Onsen does not allow BYO alcohol in the pool rooms and they are direct about why: alcohol plus hot water increases the risk of fainting and falls.

Slips are the other predictable issue. Wet timber steps into tubs are slick, especially when it is cold outside. Use handrails, move slowly, and keep your phone tucked away until you are seated.

Etiquette here is simple and worth following. Keep voices down, respect the session times, and keep your shower quick so the next group is not waiting. Swimwear is compulsory. If you are wearing heavy sunscreen or makeup, rinse before soaking. If you are sick, postpone, shared changing areas are not the place to “push through”.

If you are unsure about accessibility, do not guess on the day. Arrange it in advance, the staff can only help if they know what you need.

How much does it cost?

Entry is paid and pricing varies by experience and time. Check the official site for current rates and what is included in your booking.

Are children allowed?

Children under 5 are not allowed in the pool rooms. Children aged 5 to 11 can attend in daytime hours (9am to 4pm), and sessions after 5pm are restricted to ages 12+.

Do I have to wear swimwear?

Yes. Swimwear (togs) is compulsory in the hot pools.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Some areas can be accessed with assistance and prior arrangements, but the tubs themselves are reached by stairs. Contact Onsen before booking if you need step-free access or transfer help.

Can I bring my own food or alcohol?

They do not allow BYO food or alcohol in the pool rooms. Plan to eat and drink according to their on-site rules.