NZ Epic Hot Tub View (February 1, 2026)
As Elena and I were researching things to do in Christchurch, we searched for “Best hot springs in New Zealand” and discovered Onsen Hot Pools just 10 minutes from where we’re staying in Queenstown. Wow. As hot tub connoisseurs, we’ve enjoyed some pretty amazing outdoor hot springs, including one in Chiang Mai, Thailand (see related post). But the mountain view over the Shotover River is jaw dropping.
View from our hot tub this morning in Onsen Hot Pools
I’ve recently discovered the healing power of Forrest Bathing. I first heard about it from Melanie Dower's audiobook, The Finnish Guide to Happiness. Turns out there are many peer-reviewed medical studies about the healing powers of regular nature walks (and mindfulness meditation) in the forrest.
I believe the same healing properties can be found in regular out door hot tub soaks as well as Mountain Bathing. This morning, we experienced both. It’s not like Violet, Elena or I were stressed out, but just one hour later, we agreed we were feeling wholly refreshed.
Giving thanks and deep gratitude for our truly amazing & blessed life.
Elena and I keep a “magic house” list. I want a lake house and Elena wants a beach house. What we whole-heartedly agree on is what we desire inside the house itself. This was just added to the list. There was never a question about having a hot tub. We bought our first hot tub when Will was a toddler over 20 years ago. It’s the only “extravagant” thing we had shipped from our house in San Leandro, California to where we live now in Port Washington, New York. And yes, I go in it every day from the Fall, through the Winter, and until I drain it at the end of Spring before our extremely hot summers.
What we do NOT have is a multi-purpose room with a hot tub in it. That’s what we experienced today and what we’re adding to our “magic house” list.
I envision having a room like the one we were in today facing the lake (or, in Elena’s vision, the ocean). Notice the retractable glass garage door. It’s a nice touch. When the weather is nice, this would remain up. When you’re not using the hot tub or want a bit of protection from the weather (for whatever reason), it comes down and you still have an epic view. There are hooks to dry towels and a flat bed for clean new towels just between the hot tub and the shower. Since the room is private, no need for a shower door. You can admire the view while taking a rinse or full shower after a nice long soak. Love it. All of it!
Great combo of privacy and view, sun and shade. All the things.
I even love the deck outside. I can see incorporating this into the design. Nice outdoor patio furniture with the full view as a back drop. All the nature is wild and that’s wonderful as there would be little gardening or lawn care needed while still enjoying the full scenic views. In the colder months, the center would serve as a fire pit.
Yep, in addition to an incredible experience, today gave me all sorts of ideas for our next house. While I love where we’ve lived in Port Washington for more than 20 years now, I can feel nature calling me to live somewhere closer. It’s fun to dream into what that could look like.
Thank you, Onsen Hot Pools, for the rest, recharge, and all the ideas!
Tomorrow, we pack up and head out to Fiordland. With our last day in Queenstown, I think I’m going to head out for a bike ride. Not an extreme sports downhill adventure, but rather a nice long trail exploring more of this beautiful country. Feeling so calm and relaxed today. This is the energy and vibe of New Zealand and I love it.
