Media release from Ngai Tahu Tourism

22 October 2008

New glacier hot pools opens November 1st  

A multi-million dollar hot pools complex, The Glacier Hot Pools, will open in Franz Josef on November 1 2008.

The new complex has been built in Franz Josef’s native rainforest, on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, by tourism pioneers Ngai Tahu Tourism and Joseph Developments Franz Limited.

The stunning complex is enveloped in lush native vegetation and designed as a haven of natural tranquility.

The first phase of the development will open with three main pools and three bush-based private hot pools.

The Glacier Hot Pools is located in the centre of Franz Josef township, and has been established to offer a combined tourism and wellbeing experience.

“The opening of the pools has been hotly anticipated along the coast and throughout New Zealand,” said Sales and Marketing Manager Kerry Walker.

“Work on the hot pools began three years ago so it’s hugely rewarding to see it open on schedule in time for the busy summer season.

“The pools are looking very inviting, and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first local and international visitors. We’re sure they’ll love this new West Coast attraction.”

The Glacier Hot Pools are fed with pure local glacier water.

Great care was taken during the building process to preserve the stunning natural environment, right down to GPS tracking of rainforest tree roots, and an ethos of care for the environment is crucial to the ongoing operational management of the complex.

The Glacier Hot Pools complement the many other activities currently available on the West Coast and will be promoted as the perfect way to relax after travelling, rafting, a heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier or an indoor ice climb at the Hukawai Glacier Centre.

“We’re delighted to offer our clients the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate in Franz Josef after a busy day of activities, either during the day or into the evening under a canopy of stars,” said Ms Walker.

Future developments will include additional main and private hot pools.

The Glacier Hot Pools is Ngai Tahu’s first start-up project of this scale in many years, and will complement existing Ngai Tahu owned or managed attractions on the West Coast, which include Franz Josef Glacier Guides and the Hukawai Glacier Centre, an indoor ice climbing wall suitable for visitors of almost any age and ability.

About Ngai Tahu Tourism:

Ngai Tahu Tourism is a subsidiary of Ngai Tahu Holdings Group, the wholly owned investment company of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu, tasked with managing the commercial investments and creating wealth for the benefit of Ngai Tahu shareholders. In addition to its interests on the West Coast, Ngai Tahu Tourism’s portfolio also includes Queenstown’s Shotover Jet, Dart River Jet Safaris, Huka Falls Jet, the Hollyford Guided Walk, Rainbow Springs, Abel Tasman’s Aqua Taxi and a percentage of Whale Watch Kaikoura. In a joint venture with Wakatu Incorporation, Ngai Tahu Tourism also operates Kaiteriteri Kayaks, Abel Tasman Kayaks, Ocean River Kayaks and Kiwi Kayaks.

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