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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Teresak187
Tauranga, New Zealand33 contributions
Aug 2021
Got a voucher for my birthday, tip is make sure you book well in advance, There was only 2 spots left when I booked several weeks in advance. Great views of the river below, and saw the shot over jet go past. They gave us towels to use & rooms have a shower in. Spas were at at good temperature & you could add cold water if required. We got a uber from town was only $30 & then after spa walked down to the brewery place down the road
Written September 14, 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 Teresak187, What a lovey birthday treat, we are delighted to know that you enjoyed. We hope had a great time celebrating your birthday. Thank you for visiting, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written September 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

rachnz2015
Rotorua, New Zealand202 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
Over looking the shot over at dusk is probably the best time to go as you get the beautiful touch of lanterns lighting up your room.
The complimentary drinks and treats are a great touch.
Make a booking online but don't leave it too close to the date you want as you maybe disappointed and there is an option of a shuttle service.
Other options available to add a treatment to your spa also.
Written November 16, 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.

mmorgan2569
Papakura, New Zealand16 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
This is our third visit to Onsen. We have thoroughly enjoyed every time. Each time we had the 45min serenity soak + 1hr relaxation massage. The whole place is very inviting a relaxing from the moment you enter.
The soak is a really nice experience and very relaxing/peaceful. First 2 times were during the day with amazing views the most recent time we went while dark and a little rainy which created a nice atmosphere also but did not have the view we would have had during the day. Both are great experiences. The refreshments during the soak are a nice touch.
The massages are by far the best we have had.
It is a little pricy but a must do and well worth the extra.
Could not recommend enough! We will be back.
Written May 4, 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.

hannah
Christchurch, New Zealand207 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
It is recommended to book this a long while ahead. It used to be always booked out before COVID19; now it has higher chance to book a spot. It was quite expensive but it did have special location and view.
Sparking wine and ice cream were nice.

A few tips learnt from others and our visit:
If possible, shower before the visit and have swimming wears on inside your outfit in order to save sometime.
We did not feel losing too much privacy as other visitors said door cannot be looked and the inside can be seen through from the bottom part of door.
When the time was up, the alarm sounded like fire alarm😱
Trying to go there during the Autumn, golden leaves trees in the whole valley.
Written July 29, 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 Hannah, Thank you for sharing your tips, We agree, we tend to book out 4 weeks in advance so booking in prior is essential, were glad you enjoyed your experience with us. 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.

iitravel
Brisbane, Australia371 contributions
Jul 2022 • Solo
Hired one of the private hot pools with the retractable roof and was not disappointed.

Early morning visit in winter with crisp clean air and views of the valley below and surrounding mountains. You may even see the jet boats in the river below.

The staff were friendly, take your order for the included beverage and snack and then shortly after arriving you are shown to your hot pool. They explain how to operate the hot pool , retractable roof there are also written instructions as to what each button is for. Your choice of drink, snack and a carafe of water to consume is delivered to the hot pool.

A bell sounds when you have 10mins left to allow you to take a shower and dress.

I took advantage of the shuttle that picks you up in Queenstown in a central pick up location and drops you back there.

A thoroughly relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Written October 28, 2022
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, We appreciate you taking time to write this 5* review! We agree, it is great watching the jet boats go by. Hope to see you again soon. Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written December 15, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

G0ldie66
Auckland, New Zealand83 contributions
Dec 2020
Recommended by a friend, I surprised my teenage daughter with a 1 hour Spa.
This place is extraordinary - views are simply breathtaking from every private room, complete with shower
to rinse off. The Shotover Jet goes right past - staff are especially welcoming and friendly.
Magical experience - a must do when visiting Queenstown area
Written December 14, 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 G0ldie66, Thank you so much for your amazing review, What a lovely surprise to arrange for your daughter, we are so glad we could create amazing memories for the two of you. We'll be sure to pass on your review to our team, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written December 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

FamilyFirst_12
Chicago, IL57 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
We really enjoyed this experience. It was well run. We originally booked the outdoor experience but the next day I emailed them asking to change it to the original so we would have the retractable door in case of rain. This was easily accomplished in a timely manner as our request was quickly answered. It was very clean, relaxing and enjoyable. Loved the view and it was very private. The snacks are a nice touch. My husband had a beer he had tried before so he was happy and I had a wonderful red wine. I really enjoyed the boysenberry ice cream, perfect balance while soaking. We timed it to go at sunset which worked out very nicely. The hike up the stairs at the end is a bit much but completely worth it.
Written March 24, 2023
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.

TheBoujCrew
Tempe, AZ674 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
VISIT: end of February 2020
SERVICE: The Outdoor Onsen

I would mark this pretty high to do on your list to do in Queenstown. I just happened across their site and when we asked locals about it, they said it's very romantic. I just feel like we could never get something like this in America that's this well kept and I felt the price was decent. We booked the day before as we weren't sure where in our trip we could fit this and it ended up perfectly the day after our bike tour and later in the afternoon from our kayak tour, so helped us soothe our muscles at the same time.

They have a free shuttle that picks you up in town, which was easy for us since we had no transportation. They drop you back off at the same place too. The facility has gorgeous and clean bathrooms and within your own Onsen you have a private shower that you can wash off before and after you get into the Onsen. There is also an outdoor (private) bench where you can change and leave your clothes. There is also a cold water spout, in case the water gets too warm for you. The attendants will knock on the door and tell you how much time left of your soak. A bonus is you get to watch the shotover canyon boats glide past you from your hot tub which was pretty entertaining!

Our outdoor onsen came with 2 drinks and 2 snacks which actually had an impressive list with the drinks including beers and cider and nonalcoholic options and snacks ranged from chips and ice cream! Water is also included. Just based on this short experience, I have reason to believe that any experience here will be magical!
Written January 31, 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.

Emma M
3 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
We did the ultimate relaxation package. It was great! Scenery was amazing and massages very relaxing.

A couple things could be improved however, especially because of the price you pay. The buzzer was extremely loud and sounds a few times when your time is up in the pool. It kills the whole relaxation vibe before the massage.
They also took us to the spa then arrived with the snacks/drinks while we were half way through getting changed expecting to come in. Why not just bring it in at the start so you are not interrupting 🙂
Written April 3, 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.

Ross H
Warwick, Australia2,278 contributions
Jan 2020
Absolutely relaxing. Hot tub, chilled glass of local wine, and just watching the jet boats going up and down the Shotover River. Definitely book well in advance as the Onsen is usually booked out days/weeks ahead
Written January 29, 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 Ross, Thank you for your review. It makes us so happy knowing that you were able to switch off, unwind and enjoy your experience. Great advice, we are extremely busy so it is always a good idea to book in advance. We hope you get the chance to visit us again soon, Sincerely, The Onsen Team
Written January 30, 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

Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa Information

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