About Us

The Glacier Hot Pools is located in the heart of Franz Josef's lush native rainforest and was opened 1st November 2008 by leading New Zealand tourism company Ngāi Tahu Tourism, and Joseph Developments (Franz) Limited.

The multi-million dollar complex is the only commercial hot pools on the rugged West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. It features three enticing main pools and three private hot pools, ideal for family groups or couples.

All hot pools are filled with pure local glacier water descending from Kā Roimata a Hinehukatere.  The glacier waters are of great significance to local Ngāi Tahu whose legends speak of how the glacier was formed by the frozen tears of Hinehukatere for her lover Wawe.  Local Ngāi Tahu have a long tradition of manaakitanga (hospitality) with the area also famous for its other precious natural resource, pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone).

Ngāi Tahu’s values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) are reflected in the hot pools team’s lengths to preserve the stunning natural rainforest environment that envelops the Glacier Hot Pools, making it a truly special and unique experience.

The hot pools team continues to be guided by the principle of 'touching the landscape lightly' and is committed to a Responsible Tourism plan which will ensure this focus is maintained throughout the development.

Start planning your trip now to enjoy your own blissful Te Tai o  Poutini (West Coast) experience.