Soak, rest and relax outdoors in hot ocean water pools, under majestic Mauao and surrounded by golden beaches, cafes, native bush and walking tracks.
Treat yourself to an onsite luxurious massage with one of the friendly and experienced massage therapists based at the Mount Hot Pools.
This is an accessibility friendly facility and is one of the only hot ocean water pool complexes in the world. There are five outdoor pools, including a hot relaxation pool, a mild hydrotherapy pool, a children’s pool with a slide, and two outdoor spas, as well as three indoor private sanctuary pools. Choose the water temperature and setting that suits you best.
Unwind under Mauao and listen to the birdsong. This is a natural escape in the heart of magical Mount Maunganui.
The Mount Hot Pools has been inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, is Poolsafe accredited, and has been awarded the Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Accreditation.
About our pools
The Mount Hot Pools is one of the only known hot ocean water pool complexes in the world. Pacific Ocean water is heated to between 32-39 degrees Celsius via a 600m-deep bore below the base of the extinct volcano, Mauao.
Many locals have made a trip to the Mount Hot Pools part of their weekly routine, relying on the hot ocean water and its natural salts for rehabilitation, easing muscle and joint inflammation and improving mobility.
This also makes the hot pools the perfect spot for those looking to relax and recover.
History of the Mount Hot Pools
Memories made at the Mount Hot Pools span generations. Both locals and visitors who enjoyed these unique hot ocean water pools as kids regularly return to relive the fun with their own children and make new memories.
Te Puna Waitapu was the original geothermal hot spring on Mauao. This sacred ancient hot pool was located just above where the Mount Hot Pools are today and was used for bathing and healing.
The modern history of the Mount Hot Pools goes back to the 1950s. Mr Claris, a local water diviner, set out to find fresh water for a growing local population. Instead, he found hot salt water.
The first public hot pool officially opened in January 1966, the facility was extended in 1975, and the pool complex we know today was formed in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Hundreds of thousands of people visit the Mount Hot Pools each year.
He Pou Rarama
A culturally significant artwork that tells the story of the four sacred springs of Mauao stands at the entrance to the Mount Hot Pools.
He Pou Rarama by local artist Tiare Dickson has a commanding presence outside this popular hot ocean water pool complex, both day and night.
The pou was crafted from corten steel and has been laser cut to reveal coloured acrylic which glows with the assistance of LED lighting. Dickson said the kōrero of the four springs – Waipatukākahu, Ruarapapari, Te Puna Waitapu, and Te Kawa Waipuna – is meaningful to all iwi and hapū connected to Mauao, “so everyone will feel involved in this work”.
Mount Hot Pools Opening Hours
Monday – Saturday:
7.00am – 10.00pm
Sunday & Public Holidays:
8.00am – 10.00pm
General Admission Prices
Please visit our website to view our current prices.
Note:
Private Sanctuary Pools close at 9pm. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult when using a private sanctuary pool. Due to safety regulations a minimum of two people are required when using a private sanctuary pool.