Unwind at The Lost Spring: A Unique Luxury Geothermal Experience in The Coromandel

As one of New Zealand’s best-loved summer holiday destinations, The Coromandel might not immediately come to mind as a place to visit in the cooler months.  However, as winter days lengthen, and the fresh light of spring presedes the warmth of summer sun, the iconic coastline of The Coromandel remains as tranquil and clear as ever.  The shorter, cooler days are perfect conditions to explore the walkways, beaches and forests, and the slower pace of life on the peninsula, providing a restorative break from busy schedules.                                                                                                      

The eastern coastal town of Whitianga is home to a secluded spot that is perfect for a spring getaway, rainy day escape, or romantic weekend. Situated in the heart of down town, you could pass by this gate on your way to the beach, never realising that behind the lush semi-tropical foliage lies the exotic sanctuary that is The Lost Spring.

The Coromandel experienced intense volcanic activity many millions of years ago, resulting in the iconic coastal formations found in the Cathedral Cove and surrounds for which we are so famous, and a large geothermal plain on which the town of Whitianga now lies.  Long ago, Maori spoke of secret locations where heated waters bubbled to the surface, springs revered for their warmth and healing properties, and a lost geo-thermal hot spring that had once flowed into the Taputapuatea Stream (locally known as the Mother Brown Stream).

Alan Hopping, owner of a campground in Cook Drive, was fascinated by The Coromandel’s thermal history and inspired by local stories, began a lifelong project to discover the lost spring of Whitianga. With a vision of a therapeutic thermal resort, Alan dreamed of creating an accessible, but magical and secluded retreat that would combine the restorative powers of the thermal spring with modern spa culture.  After many years (more than 20) of drilling, building and planting, The Lost Spring became a reality in when it finally opened to expectant locals.

Nestled in a 1.5 hectares of a lush semi-tropical forest of native trees, delicate ferns and graceful palms, The Lost Spring is a luxury thermal pool complex with a day spa, lounge area and on site restaurant.  As you enter the reception area, housed in the restored historic schoolhouse, the sounds of trickling waterfalls and calming Pacifica music are immediate tonics for the senses. As you leave the reception area to envelop yourself in the thick Pohutukawa-coloured robe provided, you are already beginning to relax.

The 100 percent pure and sterile natural spring waters rise from 667m below the surface through a small crack in the bedrock, completely sterile after 16,000 years underground, with healthful and soothing properties.  Research has shown that water from the spring is thousands of years old and is rich in minerals that nourish your skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.  The pools are filled to the brim, and as they gently overflow, the thermal waters return to their source far below the earth, restored to their natural state as they pass through purifying ground layers.

Sustainability and water quality are paramount at The Lost Spring; the geothermal waters are filtered and UV treated to ensure l00 percent pure crystal clear water. The pools are filled to the brim, and as they gently overflow, the thermal waters return to their source far below the earth, restored to their natural state as they pass through purifying ground layers.

The sculpted amethyst pools shimmer invitingly through caves and grottos to provide tranquil private places for total relaxation.  The therapeutic thermal pools range in temperature from the Amethyst Cave Pool at 32 degrees Celsius, through warm shallows and the Bathtub Terraces to the Crater Lake Hot Pool at the base of The Lost Spring Volcano, at a core-warming 40 degrees.

The Lost Spring  Day Spa takes pampering to another level.  Whether you have an hour or two, or the time to indulge in a whole day of rejuvenation treatments, the spa menu will have something to suit.  The team of trained therapists will select personalised treatment combinations to suit your body and state of mind, or you may select from combination packages and specialised treatment options. 

If you are planning to stay for the day, there are plenty of opportunities to nourish your inner self from the selection on the menu in the licensed restaurant.  The fresh platters and light bites are favourites with  guests, and brunch, lunch and dinner meal options cover most tastes.   Whether you decide to dine al fresco by the pool or in the restaurant, The Lost Spring cocktails add a decadent touch.

The combination of handy location (walking distance from accommodation, beach and main street) and feeling of utter seclusion and luxury is a winner.  It’s great for a romantic evening, a girls catch up, a special occasion or as part of a healthy regime. You will need to leave children aged under 14 at home with a minder, (they will be much happier at the beach or hotel pool slide), and the hushed tranquility of the luxury complex is unbroken.

The Lost Spring is open year round, Thursday to Sunday at present, and you do need to make a reservation.  A very good reason to take a break to The Coromandel, knowing the experience will be “good for your soul".