In the heart of Whitianga, right downtown, is a unique and magical oasis called The Lost Springs. This is in the backyard of a very determined man who spent 16 years tenaciously searching before striking water. He then spent another 4/5 years finishing the build these fantastic thermal pools. The water which comes from springs 667 meters below ground are considered to be over 16,000 years old!
The Lost Springs were sculpted by the hands and vision of the founder Alan Hopping. The pools are only open Friday-Sunday. Getting there early to enjoy the peace and tranquility that this place has to offer. There are several pools with water temperatures ranging from 32° to 41°C and pools no deeper than chest height.
The Lost Springs are covered in gorgeous plants, flowers, rocks and gemstones. Giving you the impression that you are truly in the hot springs. There is an attached spa and restaurant to enjoy as well. And for those who really like to indulge you can enjoy poolside service including snacks and beverages.
The Hot Springs
The first pool you come to is the Lagoon which is fresh water and cold! We were not brave enough to swim in this one. It has a lovely waterfall that you pass by on the way to the other pools.
Next you pass through the Amethyst cave which boats of stalagmites and stalactites as well as beautiful gems embedded into the rock (all man-made).
They have beautiful colored lights that illuminate the rocks and gemstones.
We really liked this spot as it was warm, secluded and tranquil.
But we did venture out to the Amethyst pool where we enjoyed a poolside cocktail to start the day.
Crater Lake
The furthest and hottest pool is the Crater Lake. It has two mini pools that feed into the main pool. The two mini pools are the hottest and depending on where you sit you may end up where the spring feeds in.
Super fun experience in a very beautiful setting. I highly recommend visiting The Lost Springs if you ever find yourself in Whitianga!
Events from this blog occurred in mid-January 2023. Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual events. Don’t miss our last blog where we explore Whitianga Waterways by land, air and sea.