Onsen Hot Pools (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Onsen Hot Pools?
What makes it 50% Kids-Friendly: Children 5–11 are admitted only 9 am-4 pm with a paying adult; hot water requires constant supervision, no play zones or child services exist, and each child surcharge raises cost.
Positives:
- Complimentary Amenities: Includes shuttle, towels, private showers, aromatherapy, drink and snack for each session.
- Family-Sized Tubs: Private tubs fit up to 4 guests, perfect for 2 adults and 2 kids under 12.
- Adjustable Canopy: Retractable roof lets you control sun, rain or starlight exposure.
Challenges:
- Age Restrictions: Children under 5 are not permitted; kids 5–11 only between 9 AM and 4:30 PM with a paying adult.
- Limited Parking: On-site parking is scarce; shuttle is the easiest way to arrive.
- Advance Booking: Sessions fill up quickly, especially during school holidays—book early.
What is Onsen Hot Pools?
- A boutique alpine spa featuring private cedar-lined hot tubs poised on a cliff above the Shotover River canyon
- Temperature-managed soaking pools housed within barrel-shaped cedar enclosures
- Architectural design that integrates retractable canopies with panoramic mountain and river canyon vistas
What is so special about Onsen Hot Pools for with kids?
- Private cedar tubs perched above the Shotover River canyon
- Retractable roof lets you choose sun, rain or starlight
- Complimentary shuttle, towels, showers, drinks and snacks
- Family-friendly tubs fit 2 adults + 2 kids (5–11 yrs)
- Kids under 5 are not allowed; age window ends at 4:30 PM
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a full private soak, changing, and enjoying the view without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Onsen Hot Pools
Soak in Original Onsen Cedar Tub:
Relax in a private, cedar-lined tub perched above the Shotover River.
Tip: Select 37.8°C or 39.8°C and open the retractable roof for fresh air or starlight.
Enjoy Canyon and Mountain Views:
Lean over the tub edge to see the Shotover River canyon and snow-capped peaks.
Tip: Choose a tub facing the canyon when booking to maximize views.
Use Free Shuttle Service:
Ride the complimentary shuttle from Queenstown town centre to the hot pools.
Tip: Book your shuttle at the time of reservation to secure your preferred pick-up time.
Snack and Sip During Your Soak:
Enjoy a complimentary drink and snack included in every session.
Tip: Request child-friendly options and bring a refillable water bottle for extra hydration.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Onsen Hot Pools
- Book a Morning Slot: Reserve a 9 AM session to match the 5–11 age window and avoid school holiday crowds.
- Confirm Shuttle at Booking: Secure your pick-up time from Queenstown town centre when you reserve your soak.
- Pack Quick-Dry Clothing: Bring swimwear and a quick-dry robe or change of clothes for faster post-soak comfort.
- Check Weather: In colder months, plan to close the canopy and bring warm cover-ups for kids.
Reviews of Onsen Hot Pools
Jasmin V
Recommend going to this ~~ Key highlights: * Affordable for what you get * Complimentary drink / snacks in your session * Lovely views We booked a private 60min onsen for ourselves and it was absolutely lovely. My friends and I really enjoyed chatting and relaxing, customer service was absolutely lovely. Interior was lovely and calm, clean, spacious. Just a heads up that the place itself, you h...
Danielle Cushing
Amazing experience! By far my favorite thing we did in Queenstown. Extremely clean, quiet, private, and customized to exactly what you wanted. The views didn’t disappoint. Snacks and drinks were perfect. Sabah gave the best back massage I have ever had. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting some time to unwind and relax. We went the the last day we were in Queenstown, if I had been in town lon...
Kira Smith
I booked this as a treat on our recent trip to Queenstown and it honestly met all my expectations. We booked the ‘Ultimate Relaxation Experience’ which included a 2 person soak in a private cedar-lined hot tub followed by a 1 hour treatment. The hot tub has spectacular views over the Shotover river and surrounding mountains. We opted to go just before sunset so we could admire the views in the lig...
Jazi sanders
I am exploring the South Island from Townsville, Australia, and this was an experience that was on my “must do” to do list - and boy did it not disappoint. The entrance to the place was beautiful, smelled DIVINE, the staff were lovely and so accomodating. I instantly felt relaxed. I booked the “tri bath” experience for my partner and I, and I don’t regret it one bit - even the ice bath in 2 degree...
ezavsp
We had an amazing experience at Onsen Hot Pools! From the moment we arrived, the customer service was outstanding—friendly smiles all around the facility made us feel welcome immediately. The interior design of the waiting area is calming, relaxing, and warm, creating the perfect atmosphere while you wait for your session. There’s even a charging station if needed. We booked the original Onsen (s...
When is the best time to visit Onsen Hot Pools (Queenstown, New Zealand)?
In winter, close the roof canopy to block wind and stay warm; arrive by shuttle to avoid icy roads. In summer, open the canopy for sun and stargazing. Pack a warm robe for quick change after your soak.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Original Onsen Soak Only (2 adults) | NZD 175 |
| Child add-on (2 kids 5–11 yrs at NZD 30 each) | NZD 60 |
| Shuttle service | NZD 0 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 235 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Onsen Hot Pools
Address: 160 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Onsen Hot Pools (Queenstown)?
About Onsen Hot Pools
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 442 5707Average price
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
Average price