Steam rises beside the base of Mauao as five outdoor pools filled with heated Pacific Ocean water deliver targeted hydrotherapy and low-key relaxation. Learn what to expect—temperatures, accessibility, best times to visit and simple safety tips—before you book a 60-minute soak.
Steam rises beside the base of Mauao as five outdoor pools filled with heated Pacific Ocean water deliver targeted hydrotherapy and low-key relaxation. Learn what to expect—temperatures, accessibility, best times to visit and simple safety tips—before you book a 60-minute soak.
The sound of waves beyond the cliff, the low cry of seabirds and steam rising from a ring of outdoor pools—this is the Mount Maunganui Hot Pools at the foot of Mauao. Set against the volcanic headland, the complex uses heated Pacific Ocean water across five outdoor pools, each tuned for different temperatures and massage jets so you can move from warm soak to targeted hydrotherapy.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mount Hot Pools · Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
The sound of waves beyond the cliff, the low cry of seabirds and steam rising from a ring of outdoor pools—this is the Mount Maunganui Hot Pools at the foot of Mauao. Set against the volcanic headland, the complex uses heated Pacific Ocean water across five outdoor pools, each tuned for different temperatures and massage jets so you can move from warm soak to targeted hydrotherapy.
Mauao itself is a prominent volcanic dome with a deep Māori history; the hill and surrounding shoreline have been a focus of local stories and coastal life for centuries. Geologically, the headland and nearby beaches are young volcanic features scored by wind and tide; the hot pools capitalize on the marine environment rather than geothermal springs, offering saline hydrotherapy historically linked to classical salt-bathing traditions.
Expect pools between about 32–39°C, shoulder and leg jets, a children’s splash area, and two spa pools with back and leg massage jets. Towels are available on site and trained therapists offer massage add-ons. The layout is flat and wheelchair accessible, and public transport stops nearby—practical for a short restorative visit.
Plan a 60-minute session, hydrate before and after, and avoid long, repeated exposure if you have heart or pregnancy concerns. Early morning visits reward you with quiet and bird song; evenings deliver an uncrowded sky of stars beyond the headland lights. Bring a swimsuit, reusable water bottle and a light cover-up for the walk back to town. Simple, low-impact and restorative, the Mount Hot Pools are a practical stop to rest tired legs after a Mauao climb or a day on the beach.
Standard bookings are for 60 minutes, which is enough time to try multiple pools and a brief rest between soaks.
Yes—the facility provides towels, though bringing your own can be more comfortable for some visitors.
Yes—the hot pools complex and surrounding surfaces are wheelchair accessible with accessible transportation options nearby.
There is a children’s pool with water play features; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and standard supervision rules apply.
Mount Hot Pools operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The sound of waves beyond the cliff, the low cry of seabirds and steam rising from a ring of outdoor pools—this is the Mount Maunganui Hot Pools at the foot of Mauao. Set against the volcanic headland, the complex uses heated Pacific Ocean water across five outdoor pools, each tuned for different temperatures and massage jets so you can move from warm soak to targeted hydrotherapy.
The sound of waves beyond the cliff, the low cry of seabirds and steam rising from a ring of outdoor pools—this is the Mount Maunganui Hot Pools at the foot of Mauao. Set against the volcanic headland, the complex uses heated Pacific Ocean water across five outdoor pools, each tuned for different temperatures and massage jets so you can move from warm soak to targeted hydrotherapy.
Mauao itself is a prominent volcanic dome with a deep Māori history; the hill and surrounding shoreline have been a focus of local stories and coastal life for centuries. Geologically, the headland and nearby beaches are young volcanic features scored by wind and tide; the hot pools capitalize on the marine environment rather than geothermal springs, offering saline hydrotherapy historically linked to classical salt-bathing traditions.
Expect pools between about 32–39°C, shoulder and leg jets, a children’s splash area, and two spa pools with back and leg massage jets. Towels are available on site and trained therapists offer massage add-ons. The layout is flat and wheelchair accessible, and public transport stops nearby—practical for a short restorative visit.
Plan a 60-minute session, hydrate before and after, and avoid long, repeated exposure if you have heart or pregnancy concerns. Early morning visits reward you with quiet and bird song; evenings deliver an uncrowded sky of stars beyond the headland lights. Bring a swimsuit, reusable water bottle and a light cover-up for the walk back to town. Simple, low-impact and restorative, the Mount Hot Pools are a practical stop to rest tired legs after a Mauao climb or a day on the beach.