Athenree Hot Springs, Bay of Plenty – Our Go-To Soak in New Zealand

Some places just stick with you — and Athenree Hot Springs is one of those for us.

We first stumbled across this little gem a couple of years ago while road-tripping in our van with the tent box on top. In true Loren and Craig fashion, we booked a powered campsite at the last minute for a couple of nights… and ended up loving it so much we came back again later that same trip.

These days, while the camping spot is lovely, it’s actually the hot pools that keep drawing us back.

Why We Love Hot Springs So Much

We’re always on the lookout for hot tubs, spas, and mineral pools wherever we travel. They’re not just a treat for us — they genuinely help.

I have endometriosis, and Craig has osteoarthritis in his hands, so warm mineral water therapy can really ease aches, stiffness, and general tension. There’s something about soaking in naturally heated water that just slows everything down — physically and mentally.

The Pools at Athenree

Athenree Hot Springs is open to the public, and you don’t need to book. If you’re staying on-site camping or in one of their cabins, entry to the pools is included, which is such a bonus.

There are two pools, and they each have their own vibe:

The Main Pool (33–35°C)This one is larger, great for a gentle swim, and family-friendly. It’s warm without being overwhelming, and ideal if you want to move around a bit rather than just sit and soak.

The Adult Pool (38.5–40°C)This is my absolute favourite. Smaller, quieter, and adults-only, it’s bliss — especially in autumn or winter, or when it’s overcast and drizzling. Sliding into this pool feels like stepping into the perfect bath temperature, only you’re outdoors, breathing fresh air, and completely switching off.

Rain, Steam & Quiet Moments

We always make a point of visiting the pools when we’re in the area. This trip we managed to go a couple of times — we would have gone even more if the recent tropical storm hadn’t caused slips and flooding that made access tricky from Waihi Beach.

One visit, we were lucky enough to have the pools to ourselves for about 20 minutes. Swimming in the warm water while light rain fell around us was just magical. Steam rising, grey skies, warm water — it felt peaceful and almost surreal.

Then moving into the hotter adult pool afterwards to just sit, breathe, and let the heat soak into sore muscles… that’s the kind of moment that reminds you how important proper rest and self-care really are.

More Than Just the Pools

The location itself is beautiful too, right beside the estuary, with a calm, tucked-away feel that makes it perfect for camping if you like a relaxed, nature-based spot. It’s quiet, scenic, and feels far removed from busy holiday parks.

But even if you’re not staying overnight, the pools alone are worth the visit.

Final Thoughts

For us, Athenree Hot Springs isn’t just a nice place to stop — it’s somewhere we actively build into our trips. It helps ease aches, calms busy minds, and gives us time to properly slow down together.

If you’re visiting the Bay of Plenty — or you’re local and somehow haven’t been yet — go.

And if you enjoy camping in beautiful, peaceful spots, book a stay and make the most of having those pools right on your doorstep.

We’ll definitely be back. Definitely more than once.