If you are like most people, you visit Methven in winter with the sole purpose of skiing at Mt Hutt. The small town is known for its Blue Pub, the friendly locals and the affordable ski holiday destination that it provides. However, soon there will be a new reason to visit, which makes a 2021 Mt Hutt ski holiday all the more attractive.
Currently under construction is the Opuke Thermal Pools and Spas complex, which is slated to open to the public, if all goes to plan, in time for the 2021 July school holidays. Opuke is the Maori name for Mt Hutt, the 2185m peak that sits at the north end of the range and looms large over the town of Methven.
The site will offer three distinct experiences which will really cater to everyone;
- Affordable family bathing: a traditional hot pools experience featuring a variety of large pools at different temperatures to suit your personal preferences. The pools will incorporate passive fun features such as; rocks to climb, alcoves and caves to explore and overlook a soft play island that contains interactive water features surrounded by a lazy river. Caves and alcoves will also provide bathers with increased privacy and ambience, while, at the same time reducing heat loss and providing protection from the sun. Fountains and waterfalls will create a functional landscape.
- Adult Exclusive bathing: a variety of bathing features where adults can socialise, relax and revive their bodies. This area will include a combination of larger communal hot pools, secluded private pools, a pool bar and exclusive private cabanas for premium treatment/hot pool/F&B packages. Adult exclusive pools will enjoy premier views, water jet massages, bubble therapy, sauna therapies, cold plunge pool and a luxury relaxation area.
- High quality spa treatments: This spa experience will focus on total body wellness by providing a menu of quality treatments. Therapists will be trained to deliver impeccable customer service. Treatments will be provided in spacious single and double treatment rooms with peaceful and inviting views.
Another key feature of this development is it’s sustainable approach. The water is sourced from the nearby Rangitata Diversion Race that is fed by glacial melt water. It passes through a state of the art filtration and sanitation system which minimises this requirement for chemical such as chlorine. Furthermore, many renewable energy approaches are being employed to heat the water, Excess solar will be stored, water will move into insulated holding tanks overnight and many other approaches designed to deliver substantial long energy savings and be better for the environment.
This new offering for relaxing and rejuvenating, along with the recent announcement from Mt Hutt Ski Area of the new chairlift development will make Methven & Mt Hutt a very attractive destination in 2021 and beyond.
