A Perfect Getaway in Hanmer Springs! Settlers Motel

🏘️About the Hotel: Settlers Motel is located in a tranquil area of Hanmer Springs, New Zealand, close to the main street. This 5-star motel is ranked #1 in the area and #1 among small hotels in New Zealand. The motel's design emphasizes guest comfort and privacy, with rooms featuring a relaxed and comfortable decor, custom-made handcrafted furniture, and high-quality amenities and decorations. All rooms are air-conditioned for year-round comfort and include a fully equipped kitchenette for convenient self-catering. In addition, the motel offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, free laundry service, complimentary towels (for use at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools), bicycle storage, barbecue facilities, and more to meet guests' diverse needs. A variety of room types are available, including standard rooms for single or double occupancy, deluxe rooms with spa baths, and family suites. 🚗Transportation: - By Air: Fly to Christchurch International Airport. Hanmer Springs is located in the Hurunui District, 135 km northwest of Christchurch, approximately a 1 hr 45 min drive. Car rental services are available at the airport for self-drive to the motel; airport transfers can also be booked in advance, with some transfer companies offering direct service to the motel. Daily buses operate between the airport and Hanmer Springs; from the town, a short taxi ride will take you to the motel. - By Car: If driving from Christchurch, take State Highway 1, then turn onto State Highway 7 towards Hanmer Springs. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenic route offers beautiful views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. The motel provides free parking. 🏕️Nearby Attractions: - Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: Just a short walk from the motel, this is Hanmer Springs' most famous attraction. Featuring multiple pools with varying temperatures and therapeutic benefits, visitors can relax and enjoy the surrounding mountain views while soaking in the hot springs. A variety of spa services, such as massages and facials, are also available. - Hanmer Forest: Accessible by foot or a short drive from the motel, this forest is rich in flora and fauna and is a great place for hiking and biking. Stroll along the forest trails, listen to the birdsong, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of nature. - Hurunui i-SITE: Located near the motel, this is the Hanmer Springs visitor information center. Here, you can find detailed information about local attractions, activities, and accommodations, as well as displays of local handicrafts and historical and cultural materials, providing a deeper understanding of the town. - Quad Bike Off-Road Experience: Operators offering quad bike tours can be found in town, with tours lasting approximately 2.5 hrs. Ride a quad bike over mountains and through mud pits, and even participate in herding sheep. Instructors ensure safety at the front and rear of the group and stop at designated points for scenic views and photo opportunities. 💰Average Cost: - Accommodation: Prices vary depending on room type and season. Standard rooms average NZD 150–300 per person per night; rooms with spa baths or family suites are slightly higher, ranging from NZD 300–500 per person. Prices increase during peak season (New Zealand summer, December–February). Advance booking is recommended. - Dining: There are many restaurants near the motel, with an average cost of NZD 20–50 per person per meal. Enjoy local specialties such as fish and chips and New Zealand steak. Self-catering in the motel's kitchenette is a more budget-friendly option. - Activities: Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools tickets are approximately NZD 25–40 per person; quad bike off-road experiences start from NZD 139 per person; other outdoor activities such as hiking are free. 💗Other Tips: - Hotel Policy: Check-in is from 2pm–6pm (please inform the motel of your arrival time in advance); check-out is from 8am–10am. Children are welcome; children aged 13 and above are charged at the adult rate; infants under 1 year old stay free in a crib. - Language: The main language is English. - Season and Clothing: New Zealand's seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summers (December–February) are warm; pack light clothing and sunscreen. Winters (June–August) are cold; bring warm coats and clothing. Comfortable athletic shoes are recommended for outdoor activities year-round. - Currency: The local currency is the New Zealand dollar. Currency exchange is available at the airport, banks, and exchange bureaus in the city center. Credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are accepted by some businesses.