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
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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See what other travellers are saying
- Joy CDunedin, New Zealand16 contributionsRelaxing poolsReception 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 2021Travelled as a coupleWritten 25 April 2021
- 26lvQueenstown, New Zealand109 contributionsLives up to the hypeHaving 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 TeamWritten 31 March 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2020Travelled as a coupleWritten 28 March 2020
- frequentflyerNZAuckland, New Zealand46 contributionsLovely place to relaxWe 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 TeamWritten 16 July 2020This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2020Written 8 July 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.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,118 reviews
Excellent
1,591
Very good
356
Average
98
Poor
42
Terrible
31
Aeacho13
10 contributions
Jul 2023 • Friends
I'd been drooling over Onsen's Instagram for months before my trip, and the views did NOT disappoint! My best friend and I decided to book the ultimate relaxation experience. Onsen was easily accessible by the city bus from Queenstown. Our pool was ready early so we were able to soak a little while longer. The juice was some of the best we ever had! The pool overlooked the mountains and we watched the jetboats zooming down the river. Relaxation lives here. After our soak, I had the hot stone massage--highly recommended! This was the best of the 4 massages I had in NZ. We were treated to drinks and dessert after our spa treatment--the perfect ending to the perfect afternoon. Cheesecake bite was to die for!
Written 8 August 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.
AJ
Auckland, New Zealand272 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
We were lucky to find a slot had opened up for the onsen hot pools and couldn’t turn it down.
The place books up well in advance so get on their website way before your trip. Get on the waitlist and keep checking for openings!!
The views speak for themselves. The hot pools were relaxing and you could enjoy the epic scenery of the area.
The staff were great when checking in and taking us to the pools.
The place is awesome.
The place books up well in advance so get on their website way before your trip. Get on the waitlist and keep checking for openings!!
The views speak for themselves. The hot pools were relaxing and you could enjoy the epic scenery of the area.
The staff were great when checking in and taking us to the pools.
The place is awesome.
Written 5 August 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.
Taylah L
Newcastle, Australia33 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
This is a beautiful and relaxing spa. They played tranquil music whilst we looked over the valley. We had the 6pm booking where we could still see the mountains and river until the sun went down completely and we could then stargaze.
Note you only got about 50 minutes in the pool as they use this time for you to get dressed.
Note you only got about 50 minutes in the pool as they use this time for you to get dressed.
Written 31 July 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.
Amanda C
Gold Coast, Australia1,662 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
What a magic experience with an amazing view!
A must do for couples when in Queenstown.
There’s a complimentary shuttle from town to Arthur’s Point and it’s totally worth the trip!
We enjoyed our drink and snack in the hot tub whilst taking in the incredible views.
It was freezing outside and amazing in.
Perfect amount of time to relax and enjoy!
A must do for couples when in Queenstown.
There’s a complimentary shuttle from town to Arthur’s Point and it’s totally worth the trip!
We enjoyed our drink and snack in the hot tub whilst taking in the incredible views.
It was freezing outside and amazing in.
Perfect amount of time to relax and enjoy!
Written 28 July 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.
Ben_Parks
Melbourne, Australia134 contributions
Jul 2023 • Solo
Life was made easy with a soak and massage.
A huge shout out to Libby who checked me in and removed any doubts I had. Her welcome with a big smile & a sense of ease was a great start.
The oval onsen soak was superb!
Thank you to my amazing massage therapist, Suan (apologies for spelling). Extremely professional & super relaxing.
A huge shout out to Libby who checked me in and removed any doubts I had. Her welcome with a big smile & a sense of ease was a great start.
The oval onsen soak was superb!
Thank you to my amazing massage therapist, Suan (apologies for spelling). Extremely professional & super relaxing.
Written 28 July 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.
DexterCullen
Ireland148 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
A visit to the Onsen pools is on every 'must do' list for Queenstown. We went at night and the peace and starry sky were lovely. The girls working there were very nice. I'm just not sure it lives up to the major hype it receives. It is a lovely experience though. Book well in advance and the parking is limited and tight so beware!
Written 19 July 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.
stormborne
Sydney299 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Honestly the best spa experience we've ever had.
We were picked up from Queenstown for their opening sessions. On arrival we filled out our forms and selected our preferred beverage and snack options for enjoyment whilst in the spa.
Not going to lie it's a bit chilly as you strip down to your swimmers and take a pre-rinse, but once you are in the bubbling mineral spa with the hot air misting around you, watching sun light up the mountain and shot gun river below, it's hard to feel anything but happy.
The tub itself is quite deep - my husband is 6"6 and there was plenty of room for both of us. The 45 minutes passed surprisingly quickly.
After our session we were led upstairs and had the most divine massage. So often the massages at spas are on the soft side, but the ladies we had applied the perfect amount of pressure and had excellent technique, using both long strokes and kneeding. The massage beds themselves were also super comfy and even my husband fit well.
I can't speak highly enough of our masseuse- if I was a local I would be a regular customer.
After the massage we then had a lovely facial with pure Fiji products. our skin felt hydrated and glowed.
After leaving our room we were taken back upstairs to the comfy waiting area to enjoy the view, some juice, tea and sweets before grabbing the shuttle back to queenstown
all in all a sensational few hours - highly highly recommend
We were picked up from Queenstown for their opening sessions. On arrival we filled out our forms and selected our preferred beverage and snack options for enjoyment whilst in the spa.
Not going to lie it's a bit chilly as you strip down to your swimmers and take a pre-rinse, but once you are in the bubbling mineral spa with the hot air misting around you, watching sun light up the mountain and shot gun river below, it's hard to feel anything but happy.
The tub itself is quite deep - my husband is 6"6 and there was plenty of room for both of us. The 45 minutes passed surprisingly quickly.
After our session we were led upstairs and had the most divine massage. So often the massages at spas are on the soft side, but the ladies we had applied the perfect amount of pressure and had excellent technique, using both long strokes and kneeding. The massage beds themselves were also super comfy and even my husband fit well.
I can't speak highly enough of our masseuse- if I was a local I would be a regular customer.
After the massage we then had a lovely facial with pure Fiji products. our skin felt hydrated and glowed.
After leaving our room we were taken back upstairs to the comfy waiting area to enjoy the view, some juice, tea and sweets before grabbing the shuttle back to queenstown
all in all a sensational few hours - highly highly recommend
Written 18 July 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.
Amerson1
Brisbane, Australia115 contributions
May 2023 • Family
Visited with my 20 something son. We were collected by their courtesy bus in Queenstown (very handy as we didn't have a car). Really enjoyed our hour in the pool overlooking the Shotover River, with complementary drink (hot chocolate as the day was cold and rainy) & snack.
Written 5 July 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.
Pedro das Neves
Linda-a-Velha, Portugal7 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Really worth to do it at least once! We did it during sunset and we got both of day and night. Even spotted some constellations.
Written 30 June 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.
Phil B
Brisbane, Australia122 contributions
Jun 2023
An amazing experience when its 2 degrees!
We booked the original onsen that offers fantastic views of the river and mountains.
Definately worth the money for the experience.
Of note, going by my watch, that we didn't quite get the 60 minutes however. Its was more like 60 minutes from check in. But to be honest, an hour is probably too long.
We booked the original onsen that offers fantastic views of the river and mountains.
Definately worth the money for the experience.
Of note, going by my watch, that we didn't quite get the 60 minutes however. Its was more like 60 minutes from check in. But to be honest, an hour is probably too long.
Written 15 June 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.
Hi,
I want to know if you provide fresh water between different guest groups.
Dylan
11 contributions
From the website:
• For our Original Onsen and Outdoor Onsen pools the water is constantly refreshed with 1.5 litres of water per minute exiting the pool and 1.5 litres of fresh water being added.
• Each pool is electronically monitored at one second intervals as the water rotates between the pool and filtration system. The electronics compare the ideal readings to the actual readings and adjust as necessary.
• As the water circulates, it passes through a sand filter and a UV unit and then if required a small dose of bromine is added as a final disinfectant.
• In addition, a staff member undertakes manual pool tests four times a day as a back up to the electronic system.
• The shared facilities are also cleaned on the hour or approx. 10 times each day
•The smaller, private Serenity Soak oval tubs offered to our day spa guests are emptied, cleaned and re-filled with fresh water for each new booking but in keeping with our environmental responsibilities, we limit the number of bookings for these hot tubs each day.
I can’t decide between the Ultimate experience or Serenity soak. What does everyone recommend? Thank you
I can’t decide between the Ultimate experience or the Serenity soak. Which one does everyone recommend? Thanks
JoanneLee
Miranda, Australia2 contributions
We are planning a January date and wanting to do around sunset, what time will be sunset in January?
Is there a way I can know what time my session at the spa will before booking?
Lucyjsmith
Auckland Central, New Zealand105 contributions
Yes if you book online you can choose your time
We are going to New Zealand on April. Which package should I buy for onsen experience with view of Shotover canyon and full body massage?
Raymond S
Sandringham, New Zealand77 contributions
Ultimate relaxation experience. That’s what we got and had exactly what you are after. It was amazing too :)
Daniel A
1 contribution
Hi,
We are planning to do the hot pools early April. What time would be best to book to see the sunset this time of year?
Thank you!
Simon R
Auckland, New Zealand47 contributions
Hi, book earler as very popular.
Not sure hiw the sun seta as you are looking southetly across the shotover flats. Hence will only see shadows, not the sun below the ranges in the valley.
Chances are you may not get to choose such a speciic time.
But sure you'll enjoy. Just ask spa...
Sohni Singh
1 contribution
Hi, is this activity confirmed straight away when you book on TripAdvisor? Or does it take a while for the confirmation to come through?
Marketing U
Queenstown, New Zealand
Hi,
Thank you for your question.
Once you have requested a day and time on trip advisor, our reservations will be in touch with an exact booking time.
Please note all requests are subject to availability.
Thanks
The Onsen Team
Mavissssschan
6 contributions
Should I make reservation at day time or night time? When will the best time slot for that ? I will be in Queenstown in mid December. thanks
Marketing U
Queenstown, New Zealand
Hey,
That's a tricky one! We think it is equally amazing both day time and evening, our most popular session is our sunset experience. In the day time you get to experience the amazing views over the shotover canyon, however in the evening you can relax under the stars.
We hope this helps you decide.
Sincerely
The Onsen Team
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Claim your listingOnsen 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:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Hotels near Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa:
- (0.05 km) Chateau Shotover Summ
- (0.14 km) Nugget Point
- (0.16 km) Swiss-Belresort Coronet Peak
- (0.08 km) Residence du Parc by Staysouth
- (0.09 km) Coronet Quarters - Scenic 10 min drive to CBD - Stones throw from Coronet Peak
- Restaurants near Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa:
- (0.12 km) Kanuka Kitchen and Bar
- (0.14 km) Rakau Queenstown
- (0.16 km) Cargo Brewery - Gantleys Pub
- (0.14 km) Gin Garden
- (0.13 km) Awa Restaurant And Bar













































































