Thursday 26th August, 2004

Tourism Award highlight for Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve

Hot pools, pampering and a fantastic day out for the whole family. These are just some of the reasons why the Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve has scooped the best visitor attraction award at the 2004 New Zealand Tourism Awards.

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve and the Hurunui District were delighted to receive the award at a presentation by the Tourism Industry Association in Taupo on Wednesday night.

Graeme Abbot, general manager of the Thermal Reserve, says receiving such a prestigious award is the highlight of the year for the complex.

“We know that we have a wonderful attraction for visitors, and to have the tourism industry recognise this is an honour. The hot pools have been here for more than 125 years and to, after all that time, become the number one attraction in the country is a great achievement for both our staff and the Hurunui District,” says Graeme Abbot.

Graeme Abbot says the award will help to further promote the Thermal Reserve and the alpine town of Hanmer Springs as a holiday destination.

“Already this year we are expecting to see more than 500,000 people through our gates. Any more who are enticed by the award are more than welcome. We guarantee a great day out.”

In addition to the 10 geothermal hot pools, where the temperatures range from 36 to 42 degrees Celsius, the Reserve also has a fresh water pool complete with water slide and toys. Private pools and a sauna/steam room are also available.

The Reserve’s Health, Body and Mind centre offers beauty treatments and massage using natural products. A trip to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve offers the perfect combination of fresh alpine air, natural spring waters and pampering to revitalize the body and mind.

Facts and figures

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is local 90 minutes north of Christchurch.

23% of visitors are international tourists. 60% of visitors are from within the Canterbury region.

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve was a finalist in the New Zealand Tourism Awards in 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2003.

It was the winner of the New Zealand Tourism People’s Choice for 2002 and 2003.

There are a total of 2400 beds available in 37 accommodation providers in the area.

There are 30 visitor attractions and 22 cafes and restaurants in the area.

89% of all tourists who visit Hanmer Springs visit the Thermal Reserve.

ENDS

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