Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa

Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa

Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa
4.5
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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About
While Queenstown is generally done at full pace, Onsen Hot Pools takes a step back to let you take in the beauty of the surroundings and simply relax. With uninterrupted views across the Shotover Canyon, our Cedar Hot Tubs are heated to 37.8C on warmer days and up to 39.8C during the winter and can accommodate up to four adults. Our natural setting is matched by the pure water captured on its endless journey between the sky and earth to continually fill and refresh the pools. With complimentary transport to and from Queenstown, Onsen Hot Pools is relaxation the natural way.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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  • Joy C
    Dunedin, New Zealand16 contributions
    Relaxing pools
    Reception was lovely and welcoming, although the “relaxing” music must drive the staff nuts all day. We had a short wait until our pool was ready, in the comfy seats. Our hour in the pool was as described, lovely and relaxing. It was great to have the ability to control jets and water. And the views are simply stunning. We went at sunset, and although it was overcast we still enjoyed the fading light and having the small lights on the wall were very romantic. Having the drinks and snacks included was a lovely touch, and we went for juices and sorbet - highly recommend those choices as they were nice and cooling when you feel a bit warm! The warning before your time was up was helpful, and quite unintrusive. It does feel a little overpriced, I think you’re paying a premium because of the location and views rather than the actual service. My biggest issue is the initial impression. We missed the driveway initially, as signage is overwhelmed by several other signs in the vicinity. Once we pulled in it was unclear where to park at all. The area is in desperate need of at least a gardener, if not a landscaper. There are grotty looking buildings belonging to other businesses, so out of Onsen’s control, but there are ways of minimising their impact. Once you then find the path down to the pools, you’re taking your life in your hands. I don’t mind a bush walk, but not as the entrance to a business like this. While you expect fallen leaves in autumn, you would think staff would be out at least once a day to use a leaf blower. Instead it looked (and felt) like it had never been cleared. The walkways were actually slippery with decaying leaves. Being dimly lit (and unlit when you reach the driveway) was also a quite hazardous when leaving at night.
    Visited March 2021
    Traveled as a couple
    Written April 25, 2021
  • 26lv
    Queenstown, New Zealand109 contributions
    Lives up to the hype
    Having lived in Queenstown for a few years and spoken to many visitors and locals who had been to Onsen, we had reasonable expectations on our first visit. But I have to say we were not disappointed! The setting is very special, a short walk from the road takes you far enough away from the hustle and bustle of Arthur’s Point, with stunning view over the Shotover River. Beautifully presented facilities and nice little touches complete the experience. Generally I like a nice hot soak, and thought the water temperature was not quite enough on entering, but it ended up being plenty warm enough when you are soaking for an hour! Would be too hot if the temperature increased. The indoor hot tubs are in a private room with their own showers. After the hour soak, you make your way down the hallway to the changing rooms (small but big enough on the night we went - may be cramped during busy times?) The staff were friendly, professional and accomodating, ensuring we had an amazing experience right to the end. We were lucky enough to get a local’s deal for our soak - might struggle to afford regular visits at full price. Might be worth considering local’s prices for the next 12 months as this might help Onsen get through what will likely be a quiet time for the region. We look forward to visiting again soon. Thanks again Onsen!
    Hi Laura, We are so glad to hear that you took advantage of our local’s deal, it is important for us to offer these deals for our local community to give everyone the chance to unwind in a tranquil environment. It makes us so happy to know that we exceed your expectations, we are proud of the experience we provide and love reading your lovely review. Thank you for your support, We hope you to see you again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written March 31, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written March 28, 2020
  • frequentflyerNZ
    Auckland, New Zealand46 contributions
    Lovely place to relax
    We enjoyed a classic Onsen experience and loved it. We went on a cloudy rainy night, so no view or stars, but that had its own sense of privacy too. The roof retracts so you can be as enclosed or exposed as you wish. We had noted other reviewers comments about the doors, but it was not an issue for us. Yes you can see people’s legs walking by, but you’d have to be facing the door to do so. We found the ten minutes a but rushed to get dry and dressed, we knew there was the option of moving to the changing room, but preferred the privacy of the room. We made up for that though just sitting in the upstairs lounge and relaxing until we were ready to leave. If we did it again we’d probably try to book it around sunset to get the view and then the dark.
    Hi FrequentflyerNZ, Thank you for sharing your feedback, We are so pleased that you enjoyed your recent Onsen visit, there is something very tranquil about sitting in the hot pool in the rain. We glad that you relaxed in our lounge area after your pool, it is one of our favourite areas. Please visit us again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written July 16, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2020
    Written July 8, 2020
  • Wanderlust1988
    New York City, New York15 contributions
    Rushed
    Booked a room for two and honestly the view and onsen itself are nice but from The moment we walked in from the shuttle Our experience was rushed. We arrived 20 minutes early and I expected them to show us to the locker rooms to change and get ready for our experience. Instead we were shown to our room 20 mins early and told that our experience started now — even though both of us needed to change and use the restroom. I specifically booked the room at 9 to see the stars but instead we started early and I barely got a glimpse because of the early start time. I timed the experience and our “warning knock” came 10 minutes early. Staff needs to get their act together if they want them his place to be considered luxury by any means. Also, there is no privacy in the room as the bottom half of the door is clear glass. You can see people shuffle back and forth which takes away from the relaxation element.
    Hi Maryana We are disappointed that you felt rushed throughout your experience. Our aim is for all of guests to leave having experienced the best relaxation and pampering on offer in the region. I apologize if you felt rushed, we operate a tight time schedule to ensure all our guests have the best experience with no delays. Regarding your full session time I am happy to investigate this matter further. I am unable to match this review to a booking name or reference number, if you are happy to supply this please email marketing@onsen.co.nz Guests safety is a priority, as the pools are hot and we offer alcohol as part of our packages, our doors are a health and safety requirement to ensure client safety. Thank you for your feedback, we want you to know we are listening. Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written March 10, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written February 29, 2020
  • ann144
    Auckland Central, New Zealand36 contributions
    scenic soak
    Visited on recommendation of a friend. Did the outdoor soak. Staff were friendly and helpful. The view was stunning and the outdoor tub/cubicle private but you can hear your ‘neighbours’. Would be nice to have healthy snack options too, eg fruit, not just the crisps or ice cream. And agree with previous reviews, the buzzer to end the session is quite a jolt back to reality, would be more soothing to have a chime or even nature sounds. $90 is quite pricey for an hour soak so make sure to go at an interesting time of day like sunset.
    Visited April 2021
    Traveled solo
    Written April 1, 2021
  • sparky98288
    New Zealand27 contributions
    Nice pools and friendly staff
    My husband and I visited here and had a soak and massage package. This place is popular so I would recommend allowing plenty of time to find a carpark, it was full when we arrived so we had to wait for someone to leave. Staff were lovely and friendly. Changing rooms were adequate but could do with a bit more frequent cleaning and increased attention to detail (for example my locker was missing slippers, my robe had a ripped pocket, and my husbands robe was missing it’s belt). Pool room was lovely and clean and the view was amazing! The massages were good too.
    Hi Sparky98288, Thank you for your review. We love to see you rated your experience as four star, it really makes us happy to know that your enjoyed your pool and massage experience with us. Our changing rooms are monitored regularly throughout the day, however the issues you faced in the changing rooms during your visit are not the five star experience we pride ourselves on. We can only apologize for this and thank you for letting us know, we will pass on your feedback onto the team. We hope you visit us again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written August 16, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written July 30, 2020
  • Sheila C Simbajon
    Auckland, New Zealand18 contributions
    Spectacularly amazing
    The pool was epic! The service crew is highly professional and friendly. But I would like to commend Jenny who gave me the best deep tissue massage I ever had in New Zealand. I grew up in a culture of massages. Jenny is just naturally gifted to have relieved my knots and tension. I wish I could take her to Auckland as I regularly get massages at least once a month. Nevertheless, my experience at the Onsen Pools was amazing and spectacular. 45 minutes at the pool was totally worth the price. And the facial I had was so relaxing too. Well done!
    Visited January 2021
    Written January 29, 2021
  • Giovanni Mamea Suafa
    Auckland, New Zealand55 contributions
    The Best place to admire Nature!
    My partner and I have always wanted to try Onsen Hot Pools as we would constantly see it on adverts and Instagram stories. Now it was our turn and we were not one bit, disappointed. We absolutely loved everything about this place and the magic is provided. A place to relax and admire the beautiful mountains as they slowly become silhouettes. The stars were amazing. We booked our 1 hour session for 10pm but this is in the summer which means that the sun doesn’t go away until about 10.30pm. So if you are wanting a nice starry night, make sure to book during the winter. The only thing we didn’t like was that we could not stay longer. You must experience this at least twice in your lifetime!
    Visited January 2021
    Traveled as a couple
    Written January 13, 2021
  • The Global Kiwi
    Auckland, New Zealand94 contributions
    Great experience!
    Can’t fault anything really. Of course it is a bit pricey so I’d like to see some value-adds such as a cheese and crackers board (the “snacks” aren’t really much more than a tiny bite) or even a bathrobe to pop on as soon as you get out, to make the $150/hour seem a little more justifiable. In saying that, it was still a great experience and the staff were great. Would recommend 😊
    Hi TheGlobalKiwi4, Thank you for your feedback, We are always looking for ways to improve, knowing what our guests are looking for is very important to us and the only way a business can grow. We hope to see you again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written August 17, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written May 31, 2020
  • Kimmy8789
    5 contributions
    Absolutely amazing experience
    We went twice! The first night we done the inside original pool - amazing and so relaxing! The second evening we came and done the serenity soak & massage which included myself getting a half body massage and a facial and my partner got the mens facial. My partner has never done anything like this before and he felt refreshed, relaxed and absolutely loved it. My massage was incredible and the facial was amazing too, apparently I was glowing haha. Can’t thank the Onsen team enough, they looked after us so much and are very helpful and love what they do. Definitely recommending to everyone I know 😀
    Hi Kimmy, Wow your review really makes us smile, We are beaming with pride knowing that we hit the mark and delivered on everything that we promised, our team work so hard to ensure leaves with a memorable experience. We will be sure to share you review with the rest of the team. Thank you for taking the time to share your kind words. We hope to see you back at Onsen soon! Sincerely, The Onsen Team
    Written March 10, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2021
    Traveled as a couple
    Written March 8, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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2,118 reviews
Excellent
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98
Poor
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Terrible
31

Wanderlust1988
New York City, NY15 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Booked a room for two and honestly the view and onsen itself are nice but from
The moment we walked in from the shuttle
Our experience was rushed. We arrived 20 minutes early and I expected them to show us to the locker rooms to change and get ready for our experience. Instead we were shown to our room 20 mins early and told that our experience started now — even though both of us needed to change and use the restroom. I specifically booked the room at 9 to see the stars but instead we started early and I barely got a glimpse because of the early start time. I timed the experience and our “warning knock” came 10 minutes early. Staff needs to get their act together if they want them his place to be considered luxury by any means.

Also, there is no privacy in the room as the bottom half of the door is clear glass. You can see people shuffle back and forth which takes away from the relaxation element.

Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Maryana We are disappointed that you felt rushed throughout your experience. Our aim is for all of guests to leave having experienced the best relaxation and pampering on offer in the region. I apologize if you felt rushed, we operate a tight time schedule to ensure all our guests have the best experience with no delays. Regarding your full session time I am happy to investigate this matter further. I am unable to match this review to a booking name or reference number, if you are happy to supply this please email marketing@onsen.co.nz Guests safety is a priority, as the pools are hot and we offer alcohol as part of our packages, our doors are a health and safety requirement to ensure client safety. Thank you for your feedback, we want you to know we are listening. Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written March 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

ann144
Auckland Central, New Zealand36 contributions
Apr 2021 • Solo
Visited on recommendation of a friend. Did the outdoor soak. Staff were friendly and helpful. The view was stunning and the outdoor tub/cubicle private but you can hear your ‘neighbours’. Would be nice to have healthy snack options too, eg fruit, not just the crisps or ice cream. And agree with previous reviews, the buzzer to end the session is quite a jolt back to reality, would be more soothing to have a chime or even nature sounds. $90 is quite pricey for an hour soak so make sure to go at an interesting time of day like sunset.
Written April 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sparky98288
New Zealand27 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
My husband and I visited here and had a soak and massage package. This place is popular so I would recommend allowing plenty of time to find a carpark, it was full when we arrived so we had to wait for someone to leave. Staff were lovely and friendly. Changing rooms were adequate but could do with a bit more frequent cleaning and increased attention to detail (for example my locker was missing slippers, my robe had a ripped pocket, and my husbands robe was missing it’s belt). Pool room was lovely and clean and the view was amazing! The massages were good too.
Written July 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Sparky98288, Thank you for your review. We love to see you rated your experience as four star, it really makes us happy to know that your enjoyed your pool and massage experience with us. Our changing rooms are monitored regularly throughout the day, however the issues you faced in the changing rooms during your visit are not the five star experience we pride ourselves on. We can only apologize for this and thank you for letting us know, we will pass on your feedback onto the team. We hope you visit us again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written August 17, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sheila C Simbajon
Auckland, New Zealand18 contributions
Jan 2021
The pool was epic! The service crew is highly professional and friendly. But I would like to commend Jenny who gave me the best deep tissue massage I ever had in New Zealand. I grew up in a culture of massages. Jenny is just naturally gifted to have relieved my knots and tension. I wish I could take her to Auckland as I regularly get massages at least once a month. Nevertheless, my experience at the Onsen Pools was amazing and spectacular. 45 minutes at the pool was totally worth the price. And the facial I had was so relaxing too. Well done!
Written January 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Giovanni Mamea Suafa
Auckland, New Zealand55 contributions
Jan 2021 • Couples
My partner and I have always wanted to try Onsen Hot Pools as we would constantly see it on adverts and Instagram stories. Now it was our turn and we were not one bit, disappointed. We absolutely loved everything about this place and the magic is provided. A place to relax and admire the beautiful mountains as they slowly become silhouettes. The stars were amazing. We booked our 1 hour session for 10pm but this is in the summer which means that the sun doesn’t go away until about 10.30pm. So if you are wanting a nice starry night, make sure to book during the winter. The only thing we didn’t like was that we could not stay longer. You must experience this at least twice in your lifetime!
Written January 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

The Global Kiwi
Auckland, New Zealand94 contributions
May 2020 • Couples
Can’t fault anything really. Of course it is a bit pricey so I’d like to see some value-adds such as a cheese and crackers board (the “snacks” aren’t really much more than a tiny bite) or even a bathrobe to pop on as soon as you get out, to make the $150/hour seem a little more justifiable.

In saying that, it was still a great experience and the staff were great. Would recommend 😊
Written May 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi TheGlobalKiwi4, Thank you for your feedback, We are always looking for ways to improve, knowing what our guests are looking for is very important to us and the only way a business can grow. We hope to see you again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written August 17, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Kimmy8789
5 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
We went twice! The first night we done the inside original pool - amazing and so relaxing! The second evening we came and done the serenity soak & massage which included myself getting a half body massage and a facial and my partner got the mens facial. My partner has never done anything like this before and he felt refreshed, relaxed and absolutely loved it. My massage was incredible and the facial was amazing too, apparently I was glowing haha. Can’t thank the Onsen team enough, they looked after us so much and are very helpful and love what they do. Definitely recommending to everyone I know 😀
Written March 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Kimmy, Wow your review really makes us smile, We are beaming with pride knowing that we hit the mark and delivered on everything that we promised, our team work so hard to ensure leaves with a memorable experience. We will be sure to share you review with the rest of the team. Thank you for taking the time to share your kind words. We hope to see you back at Onsen soon! Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written March 10, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

ashbabyxo
Dunedin, New Zealand2 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
We did the outdoor onsen hot tubs.
We did the evening lantern ones as the photos looked beautiful with the lanterns around the hot tub. However we're very disappointed that they were just on the back wall and looked nothing like the photo.. the outdoor hot tubs seem like such an after thought, they are cramed in comparison to the original ones which are pure bliss.. they arnt private at all and you can see the people on both sides of you, you can also hear loud and clear the conversations on both sides.
I hated this experience and would not reccomend going to the outdoor hot tubs.

If you are going to go make sure you get the original onsen hot tubs, they are incredible. Everything about them are luxury. Spacious, romantic, private and just beautiful.

The fact that they are both the same price is also ridiculious as they are so far apart in comparison
Written August 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marketing U
Hi, Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback, We are sorry to hear that you are disappointed with your experience, we do our best to provide as many images of each experience as possible, so all of our guests have a clear understanding of the experience they have booked. We understand that not all of our experiences are for everyone, but we are glad to hear that you enjoy our Original Onsen experience. We'll be sure to pass your feedback on to management, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written August 22, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Kristin
2 contributions
Apr 2021 • Friends
A visit to the Onsen Hot Pools was high on my to do list while in Queenstown and it didn't disappoint! The outdoor onsen exceeded all my expectations! From the view, to the service, and the actual pool itself, everything was perfect. I highly recommend booking a soak in an onsen on your next trip to Queenstown, it's a great way to unwind and enjoy the stunning surrounds. I will be back!
Written April 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rach Gold
Sydney, Australia146 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Lovely experience with an Outdoor Onsen!
The view and tranquility is spectacular.
The included drink and snack is nice, they should have an option where you can buzz for another drink though!
For the spa only dressing gowns and slippers aren’t included so be sure to bring some for yourself to use. Towels and body wash for after is though which is good.
Only marked down as water did smell strongly chlorinated, us and another guest both noticed it.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Rachisgold, Thank you for reviewing your recent visit, Our Outdoor Onsen is one of our new experiences, to hear that you enjoyed your soak is a great compliment, as any business we are always looking for ways to improve so your feedback is very important to us. We will be sure to report your feedback to our maintenance team, We hope you visit us again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written April 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa (Queenstown) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Frequently Asked Questions about Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa

Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa is open:
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