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Investing in Hanmer Springs: New Surf Experience for Our District

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HDC News items

Visual showing the YourWave pool.

Hurunui District Council (HDC) is pleased to share with our ratepayers that, through its investment in Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa (HSTPS), an exciting new attraction will be developed for our district—a YourWave surf experience, scheduled to open before the end of 2026.

This project represents a total investment of $4 million, with $1 million of that being funded from new debt, and the balance delivered within the existing long term plan capital programme of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa.

Importantly, this development will be built within the existing footprint of the HSTPS, ensuring no expansion of the site while maximising the value of an already well-established and high-performing asset owned by our community.

Why this investment matters

Hanmer Springs plays a critical role in the Hurunui District economy. As one of New Zealand’s leading visitor destinations, it supports local businesses, creates employment opportunities, and generates ongoing economic benefits for the wider district.

Tourism is continuing to recover strongly, with both domestic and international visitors seeking unique and memorable experiences. Investing in new attractions like the YourWave surf experience ensures Hanmer Springs remains competitive and continues to attract visitors year-round.

This in turn helps to:

  • Grow visitor numbers and length of stay
  • Support local jobs and businesses across the Hurunui
  • Strengthen the district’s economic resilience
  • Deliver long-term returns on community-owned assets

About the surf experience

The YourWave surf pool is a New Zealand-designed and built attraction, offering a unique experience suitable for beginners through to more confident surfers.

Visual showing the YourWave pool.

Key features include:

  • A purpose-built surf pool within the existing complex
  • Adjustable wave technology for different skill levels
  • Warm, geothermal-heated water (around 28°C)
  • One-hour group sessions, as well as private and corporate bookings
  • Opportunities for a local surf club, giving residents regular access

This will be a bookable, standalone experience, complementing the existing HSTPS offering and adding another compelling reason to visit Hanmer Springs and the wider Hurunui in every season.

Visual showing the YourWave Location.

Looking ahead

Construction is expected to begin shortly, with further updates shared as the project progresses.

This investment reflects Council’s commitment to supporting sustainable economic growth, while continuing to enhance the assets we own on behalf of our community.

HSTPS will continue to operate as usual throughout this period—this project simply adds another exciting experience for both visitors and locals to enjoy.

At the same time, HSTPS continues to progress a range of other planned improvements. This includes upgrades within The Spa and the development of a new private bathing experience in the existing private pools area. Routine maintenance and asset renewals are also ongoing to ensure the facility remains at a high standard for both visitors and locals.

All of these projects sit within the scope of Council’s Long Term Plan, and Council is excited to see these enhancements, alongside the YourWave surf experience, come to life over the coming year.

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For more information please contact:

Sarah Wiblin

General Manager

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pool and Spa

sarah@hanmersprings.co.nz

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