NZ Hike Day 8: The Hotpools in Copland Valley

The Welcome Hut is a two storey wood cabin with a cooking and common area downstairs and sleeping quarters upstairs. The most fascinating aspect of the cabin is its close proximity to several natural hotpools. As the air cooled in the evening, we donned our swimsuits and dashed out to try out these natural hotpools. It was getting quite dark so we had our flashlights with us to guide us to the hotpools. It was an interesting experience to say the least. One the one hand, being in the warm to scalding hot water was quite comforting, given the windy, cold air around us. On the other hand, the pools sit in pure mud and and have a slimy texture. Anyhow, I guess it was not really my cup of tea as I've been in far clearer hot pools in Turkey (so I'm spoilt). There were hikers who spent hours in the hotpools though. I will also add that my brief experience did wonders for relaxation and sore muscles. And there's something very cool about laying your head back and looking up at the star-filled clear sky, sitting in a hot tub of water. Not quite Sanbona, but very fulfilling nevertheless.