Secret Spot Hot Tubs, New Zealand

What it is

Secret Spot is a book-a-slot forest spa on the edge of Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua, built around individual cedar hot tubs and private saunas. It is not a geothermal soak, the tubs are filled with fresh water sourced from an aquifer spring and treated with their system (so it feels more like a clean, controlled soak than a mineral pool). The hot tubs run at about 39.9°C (103.8°F) and you cannot change the temperature. Each soak is timed (45 minutes), which sounds strict, but in practice it keeps the place calm and stops people from cooking themselves.

Why you might choose it

If you want the “hot pools” feeling without driving deep into the backcountry, this is an easy win. You get forest vibes, a predictable experience, and small comforts like towel hire and tub-side drink delivery. It is also one of the better options around Rotorua when the weather is messy, because it runs rain or shine and the tubs are ready when you arrive.

What it is not

Do not come expecting a natural, clothing-optional soak or mineral-rich geothermal water. This is a paid, managed venue with rules, schedules, and a family-friendly daytime feel.

Secret Spot sits by the Waipa Mountain Bike Car Park off Waipa State Mill Road, a short drive south of central Rotorua. The last bit is straightforward, but expect a busy access road at peak bike times and school holidays. Follow the signage from the Te Puia area and aim to arrive a little early so you can check in, change, and walk out to your allocated tub without rushing.

What to bring is simple: swimwear and a towel. If you forget, they hire towels and swimwear items (check current pricing on their site). Even in summer, pack a warm layer for the walk back to the car, Rotorua evenings can cool off fast. In winter, the walkways can be damp and a little slick, so grippy sandals help.

Access to the hot tubs involves a small swing bridge and steps up to each tub, plus swinging a leg over the tub edge. If that sounds marginal for your group, call ahead and talk it through. The cafe, bar, and their foot-soak area have easier access.

This is best for couples, small groups, and anyone who wants an easy, controlled soak after a day in Rotorua. The timed sessions make it a good fit if you like plans and hate queuing. It can also work for a low-effort treat between activities, because you are not committing to an all-day spa circuit.

Families: children over 5 are allowed in the hot tubs and saunas, but under-5s are not permitted in the hot tubs for health and safety reasons. Children and teens have supervision rules, so plan on a paying adult soaking with them. If you are travelling with very young kids, the more realistic “win” here is the non-tub areas (food, games, and the foot hot tubs) rather than the main soak experience.

Mobility: the venue is not wheelchair accessible for the hot tub experience itself. You need to cross a small bridge, manage steps, and step over the tub wall. If someone in your group uses a wheelchair or has limited balance, assume the main tubs will not work, and treat the accessible cafe and facilities as the usable part of the site.

Heat is the main risk. Even at a comfortable set temperature, 45 minutes is enough to overdo it if you arrive dehydrated or you have been drinking. Take water seriously, stand up slowly, and get out early if you feel lightheaded. This is one reason the timed sessions are helpful, they nudge you toward a sensible soak length.

Slips happen on wet timber and stone, especially in rain. Wear sandals with grip, move slowly, and keep phones in a dry place. At night, use the lighting and do not shortcut through planted areas.

Etiquette is simple: keep voices down (sound travels between tubs), rinse off if you have heavy sunscreen or mud, and keep drinks to what is allowed by the venue. Pets may be permitted in some areas but not in tubs, follow staff guidance. If you are sick, skip it, hot tubs and shared spaces are a bad mix for everyone else.

How much does it cost to get in?

Entry is paid and pricing is per person, with different rates by session and age. Check the official site for current prices and what is included.

Do I need to book ahead?

Yes, booking is strongly recommended, especially evenings and weekends. Walk-ins can miss out because sessions are timed and capacity is fixed.

Are children allowed?

Children over 5 can use the hot tubs and saunas. Under-5s are not allowed in the hot tubs. Plan for supervision rules for kids and teens.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

The cafe and some facilities are wheelchair accessible, but the hot tubs require a swing bridge, steps, and stepping over the tub wall. If mobility is limited, call ahead before you book.

What should I bring?

Swimwear and a towel, plus grippy sandals and a warm layer for after your soak. Towel hire is available if you forget.