Waingaro Hot Springs [Reopened Apr 2016]
Waikato
Waingaro Road, Waingaro
Waingaro Road, Waingaro
Phone: (07) 825 4761
**Please mention nzhotpools.co.nz when you call** Description
Reopened around $12 per person. Slide is only open sometimes so enquire before going with kids. bumper boats look to have closed. Reopened recently so very clean and new facilities. [Jhani Mulder , auckland]
Directions
45km north west of Hamilton out in the 'whops', this place is a little tricky to find without consulting a map before you leave./n
20 minutes West from Ngaruwahia. If you reach a T-junction for SH22 you've gone too far.
Interactive Map
Map showing location of Waingaro Hot Springs [Reopened Apr 2016]
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My Experience

If you're staying at the camping ground I'm sure its a treat, but as a hot pool venue for a connoisseur such as myself, I find it difficult to justify the 45min long and windy drive from Hamilton.
Bather Reviews
382
Stayed there for 3 nights in our caravan in January 2021, unfortunately no hot water in the top block so no showers, middle block was just filthy, pools were dirty, lots of hair & floaties. Alot of it being used for social housing & long term living unfortunately. Very run down and no where near as good as it was in the 80's/early 90's.
Rating: 3/10
Cindy - Taranaki
30th August 2021
Rating: 3/10
Cindy - Taranaki
30th August 2021
381
i have been there lots and i do not see why people are making rood comments about it i had so much fun and i think some people are just to stuck up to have any fun at anything that's not bling
Rating: 10/10
larry - cambridge
13th October 2020
Rating: 10/10
larry - cambridge
13th October 2020
380
Stayed here for 1 night in the Motel 1 accommodation. Across the road down a driveway shared property with the locals
What a dump @ $210 per night for 3 people - feels truly ripped off
Pools looked scummy and dirty and didn't dare enter the water
Shower in unit had very slow running hot water
Unit needs a major make over - had 4 new coffee cups though - price tags still on it
Smelt of cigarette smoke
Rating: -/10
Keith - NZ
09th September 2019
Rating: -/10
Keith - NZ
09th September 2019
379
Stayed here for 1 night in the Motel 1 accommodation. Across the road down a driveway shared property with the locals
What a dump @ $210 per night for 3 people - feels truly ripped off
Pools looked scummy and dirty and didn't dare enter the water
Shower in unit had very slow running hot water
Unit needs a major make over - had 4 new coffee cups though - price tags still on it
Smelt of cigarette smoke
Rating: -/10
Keith - NZ
09th September 2019
Rating: -/10
Keith - NZ
09th September 2019
378
Not bad for a swim and that is all
Rating: 3/10
Jeff - Napier
11th October 2018
Rating: 3/10
Jeff - Napier
11th October 2018
377
Went to Waingaro Hot Pools for the first time with my family today...The customer service was great, however the hot pool was disgusting with floaties the appeared to look like skin. There is not tuck shop as all pools have...
The hydroslide was only turned on for approx 20 minutes then turned off again, so clearly the owners are "TIGHT" on money when we have just paid $6 each for a "DAY PASS". The concrete leading up to and flooring at the top of the hydroslide were slippery and full of Lycan which causes accidents when wet.
Once our day had ended due to the hydroslide still being off and my son not being able to use it again, we went to have a nice shower to clean the pool gunk off...However the shower floor was slippery with sludge and the water is COLD AS HELL in the shower...Yet another TIGHT ASS way to take our money and skim on provisions... I hope the next owner cares about their customers more buy providing the service we are paying for buy not cutting costs to make profit off us and especially in regard to the many HEALTH & SAFETY issues the Waingaro Hot springs has.
That aside Lovely staff.
Rating: 3/10
Michelle Weir -
11th August 2018
Rating: 3/10
Michelle Weir -
11th August 2018
376
What a dump. If we hadn't had to pay for accommodation in advance and the weather wasn't so foul we would have left. The accommodation was appalling... Dirty oven, had to wash dishes before using, one window in a room didn't close properly and there was a broken tile on the floor in the kitchen. It was just really run down and unkempt. Pools were nice but paid extra for the kids to go on the slide and they opened them for 15 minutes during the 2.5 hours we were there.
Rating: 1/10
Julie - New Zealand
16th July 2018
Rating: 1/10
Julie - New Zealand
16th July 2018
375
I've been going to Waingaro since an infant. Yes it may be outdated compared to other wealthy Springs but in general it does the job I expect it to do.
It's become neglected somewhat but doesn't change the fact that the water is why I'm there; relaxation temperature, hydrotherapy, peace and the childhood memories flashing by when I look at each area of the site.
I love the loud laughable characters of the owners and the smiling humble staff, they have shown me no bias, ever and I'm Maori...in all honesty the owner will clock you, real loud, on the intercom if she has to because most times its needed.
Be responsible and she won't call you out.
Rating: 8/10
MeiMei - Hamilton
17th April 2018
Rating: 8/10
MeiMei - Hamilton
17th April 2018
374
I went to Waingaro Hot Springs on Saturday the 24th of February 2018. I booked a spa for half an hour for $40. when I got their with my misses it seemed like the cripple lady their hadent prepared the spas. acccutually it looked like they were not in use. she then got the lifeguard to fill the spa from the hose and turn the spa tap on manually from spa and turn something on in the control room next door. it had floating scum in it. I have a bladder infection from it or something. I will find out. i'm so angry with waingaro hot spings & I think it should be comdemed and the previous shonky national government to be held to account.
Rating: -/10
Mike Mike - Hamilton/New Zealand
26th February 2018
Rating: -/10
Mike Mike - Hamilton/New Zealand
26th February 2018
373
If you are Maori,dont go here,the lady will call out over the mike " hey Maori girl you can't swim there.. Disgraceful. These people are rat shit opps, I mean racist
Rating: 1/10
Shane Winiata - Aoteroa/New Zeala
03th February 2018
Rating: 1/10
Shane Winiata - Aoteroa/New Zeala
03th February 2018
372
Absolutely disgusting $200 later. Now have sore ears and flea bites from staying in a revolting so called motel
Rating: -/10
Unpleasant customer -
11th February 2018
Rating: -/10
Unpleasant customer -
11th February 2018
371
Pretty shabby. Doesn't look like it's had any love since the 80s. Cracked concrete, broken fittings. Some manner of Classic Hits blaring over a speaker, with occasional interjections about chippies and drinks available at the shop. Very small town NZ.
Pools were reasonable, in the context of the overall general shabbiness, and a pleasant temperature. Absolutely no sign of lifeguards, although there was a lifeguard seat - indicated by a handwritten and sellotaped sign.
The larger hydroslide was excellent fun but felt decidedly unsafe. Got whacked in the face by flax on each run, and consistently got air while hurtling down a couple of corners. Didn't die. There was a sheep ambling around the hydroslides and pooping on the path. Not a huge amount of clearance in pool at bottom of slides. Most of the time, the slide attendant was distracted chatting to a mate instead of watching the near collisions, checking for drownings, etc.
If you temper your expectations, everything's perfectly fine. Just don't drive more than maybe half an hour to get to it.
Rating: 3/10
Matt - Wellington
02th January 2018
Rating: 3/10
Matt - Wellington
02th January 2018
370
Pretty crappy place. The smaller hot pool was super gross, could see skin/toenails etc floating in it. The bigger pool was ok. No life guards half the time, and the other half was an old lady that could barely walk.
Rating: 2/10
Petah -
04th November 2017
Rating: 2/10
Petah -
04th November 2017
369
A great day out and the whole family had a good time at a decent price. The people were really nice and friendly and the facilities were just fine. The place is good value and we would recommend it. Unsure why there are negative reviews out there - maybe some people have unrealistic expectations of what to expect from hot pools in the middle of the North Island!
Rating: 8/10
Stu - Tauwhare
06th October 2017
Rating: 8/10
Stu - Tauwhare
06th October 2017
368
Went today for the first time with family. Staff were friendly at the gate. All of the rails around the pools and inside the pools are rusted and in need of renewing. Many parts of the concrete were slimey and slipperey too especially up by the hydroslides, was quite dangerous. The hydroslides were awesome though, kids had a day of fun. Plenty of shelters to sit under with many tables and seating, great for family get togethers. The walkways around the pools are odd, not spacious or level, gotta be careful all the time there. Pools are geat though.
Biggest complaint would be the 'life guards'. I saw 4 life guards today. 1 was an elderly woman who struggled to walk up the steps, another a large plus size woman (Im very plus sized so I know the physical limitations well) so I doubted their ability to actually save someone from drowning. The other 2 were men, 1 was very aware of the swimmers, walking around watching constantly, compared to the other who sat on his phone majority of the afternoon. An incident did occur too while I was there, an elderly woman was trying to get out of the hot pool but so many people occupy the stairs and sit in the way blocking the entrance and the use of the rails. She ended up slipping and hitting her head while trying to squeaze through them. No life guards saw it, took awhile for someone to get the attention of one, and they didnt really do anything, just came over asked if she was okay then helped her get out. Thats as far as the lifeguards assisstance went, the elderly woman ended up being concussed and her family took her to the hospital. After that I complained saying to a lifeguard that the stairs into the pools should be kept vacant because thats why the elderly woman slipped. The lifeguard listened, went over to all the people blocking the stairs and asked them to move, they did, then as the lifeguard turned they all returned back tot the stairs to sit. He didnt ask them again either. Another lifeguard occasionally asked them to scoot over every now and then. People blocked the stairs all afternoon.
The place needs to invest in replacing the fixtures, and cleaning the pavement. But most of all they need trained life guards that enforce safety rules. Apart from these grievances my family had fun, but definitely didnt feel safe, so 4/10.
Rating: 4/10
Maree - Hamilton, NZ
20th August 2017
Rating: 4/10
Maree - Hamilton, NZ
20th August 2017
367
Waingaro Hot Springs is the best day out for the whole family. The owners and staff are so warm and welcoming. It burst with character, so relaxing and always clean. I feel so lucky to have this just half an hour away and great all year round what ever the weather!
Rating: 10/10
Joni Mathieson - Raglan
29th May 2017
Rating: 10/10
Joni Mathieson - Raglan
29th May 2017
366
Um I don't know what to say it was half and half the water slides were amazing I would recommend that but the pools are disgusting ???
Rating: 5/10
Marco - Italy
23th December 2016
Rating: 5/10
Marco - Italy
23th December 2016
365
wow.rude owners.long way to access with the crapist food,service and over all experience.go to the aroha.
Rating: 1/10
bather - hamilton
28th October 2016
Rating: 1/10
bather - hamilton
28th October 2016
364
Good and bad:
Good:
Great that they are open again. Apart from a few new coats of pain and fences, it's much the same as before. Which is ok by me because I loved soaking in the hot water looking up at the mountains.
Bad:
We hired a private spa only to find out that the bubbles weren't working. (You pay 40 bucks for a spa, you expect to get bubbles not just a private hot pool with a view of some gorse) The attendent was a lovely guy and went to get help immediately. Someone returned every few minutes telling us the problem was being looked into. Then after 15 minutes nothing. We sat there in the tub for a further 30 minutes without the problem being solved. After waiting long enough we gave up and went back to the main pools. My partner later when to Chood Singh up at the office for a refund and he got very irate. His manner was very intimidating. He only agreed to refund the amount after my partner threatened to go to Consumer Affairs.
Despite the unprofessional management I still love Waingaro Springs. Have been going there since I was a kid in the 70s. I may have trouble convincing my partner to agree to come back again though.
Rating: 6/10
80sfan - New Zealand
11th August 2016
Rating: 6/10
80sfan - New Zealand
11th August 2016
363
We went there last month, the young lady who took our admittance was pleasant and helpful, pointed out where we could park in the shade so our dogs wouldn't get over heated in the car. The pools and buildings are old but appear to have had quite a lot of painting done of late, were clean and tidy, and the water temperatures were nice at 32 deg in the main pool and 40 in the hot smaller pool.
It was not the fanciest, and their little shop is pretty bare but we enjoyed our afternoon there.
Reading through the other reviews, I think we had a better experience than some, but I can see that some investment to make improvements might be a good thing.
Rating: 7/10
John Welsford - New Zealand
16th May 2016
Rating: 7/10
John Welsford - New Zealand
16th May 2016
362
Lets hope that a more customer focussed regime comes with the re opening. I too found the management and staff appalling to deal with. I stopped going (had been a regular customer) before it was forced to close as I found the customer service/attitude appalling. You'll get another chance from me but it will be the last. Much prefer Te Aroha or even better Morere between Gisborne and Napier
Rating: -/10
Weka - Hamilton
09th March 2016
Rating: -/10
Weka - Hamilton
09th March 2016
361
Lets hope that a more customer focussed regime comes with the re opening. I too found the management and staff appalling to deal with. I stopped going (had been a regular customer) before it was forced to close as I found the customer service/attitude appalling. You'll get another chance from me but it will be the last. Much prefer Te Aroha or even better Morere between Gisborne and Napier
Rating: -/10
Weka - Hamilton
09th March 2016
Rating: -/10
Weka - Hamilton
09th March 2016
360
Yay, they have now reopened :)
Rating: -/10
Pete -
03th February 2016
Rating: -/10
Pete -
03th February 2016
359
i am from waingaro but i barley went to the hot pools. They are very expensive and definitely not worth it. The water is amazing but only because its natural. Every time after swimming there i always felt sick. The kids pool was never filled or it was closed down. The private spas are Very expensive and again not worth it. The very hot pool is great and relaxation but is sometimes to hot. There are never life guards around which is very poorly. Changing rooms are always clean but there is only one cold shower. It would have been nice to have private showers with hot water. water slides are very dangerous and there is never life guards around either. Hot food shop is never open which should be ideal because the hot pools are so far from any place to get food. Owner is very rude. Always was scared of her when going there. She would always growl at young ones to hurry up and purchase food from the first shop before you enter the pools. Love the birds and the playgrounds they have for the kids. There is alot of ground, it would be great to extend the pools. Never have i seen the bumper boats pool clean. Even though it looks shut down they still run it even when the pool is green. Waingaro hot pools is waingaros attraction out there, so i hope when the owners re-open the pools everyone will love it out there just as much as i do.
Rating: 3/10
anon - Raglan New Zealand
16th February 2015
Rating: 3/10
anon - Raglan New Zealand
16th February 2015
358
Worse hot pools I have ever been too - staff were rude (I think it was the owner!) and hugely overpriced for the condition it is in. Glad its gone!
Rating: 1/10
Zoe - Hamilton
29th January 2015
Rating: 1/10
Zoe - Hamilton
29th January 2015
357
Naww I miss Waingaro. Yea it wasn't like other posh fancy places. It was real. A bit rough but the kids and I never minded something a little different. It was fun and immersed in beautiful scenery. Come on Waingaro just a few clean ups, we miss you.
Rating: 9/10
A Hoeta - Mangere
16th December 2014
Rating: 9/10
A Hoeta - Mangere
16th December 2014
356
'The facts' the council should be honest and transparent and give the media all the facts, or the media should provide all the facts if they have them - why did they close it down - 'even though the Council owns the land the Singhs own the chattles and business' the council were going to buy it' they sent in surveyors to complete a site inspection and that report provided by the councils surveyors listed a number of issues not known to the Singh's, some pertaining to Geological concerns over the slide, with earthquake concerns. Over the years and most currently the Singh's have provided there own Geological and Surveyors reports, and when and where necessary have used these reports to make sure the complex is safe. Their is now a dispute over these reports, Councils and Singh's. Amros and Chood, they work all the hours under the sun to make sure the complex is clean and well maintained. When the age of the complex is taken into consideration. If they were to spend $10's of thousands on up grades to bring the complex/buildings into the 21st centry when competing with a newer swimming complex's in Hamilton less travel costs for most, or do they put money into making sure the complex is safe, clearly they want to make sure it is safe. All I do know is that water testing is sent out to laborities for testing, this paperwork must be available for immediate inspection by Council, this has always been provided, Council has conducted and signed off regular inspections of the complex, one must always remember an event such as the earthquakes or serious flooding changes the perseption of what maybe acceptable, and councils change acts regularly so the safety of any business activity is maintained. The unexpected closing of the pools by the council, is not about dirty toilets., it is about health and safety, slides, buildings etc, some of these are old, and need to be brought up to spec, they were deemed to be up to health and safety standards, just prior to the council's surveyors report that closed the complex suddenly in December., Give the Singh's the opportunity to resolve there differences with council, but those who have never visited the complex don't write about things you do not know first hand, or gossip. The Singh's have formed lifetime friendships, with repeat customers, and I know they want the business up and running as soon as possible. I know this couple would give you the shirt of their backs .. don't knock them support them in there business as they have provided years of laxing for thousands of customers.
Foot note - Council should be supporting the Singh's business it is good for torists, campervans, helping them see an untouched part of the country less than an hour out of Auckland.
My thoughts and thanks for the service you have provided me, my family and friends over the years. Let me know when the opening party will be :)
Rating: 10/10
Susan Barron - NZ
21th August 2014
Rating: 10/10
Susan Barron - NZ
21th August 2014
355
I always found the water clean and loved swimming. I am now travelling to Te Aroha for my swims. Te Aroha is Council operated. Why doesn't Council take over Waingaro and bring it back to the great place it used to be.
Rating: -/10
Liz Shaw - Hamilton NZ
09th July 2014
Rating: -/10
Liz Shaw - Hamilton NZ
09th July 2014
354
Wow I wrote a terrible review in 2010 and everyone has written the same thing and worse since then. How is there no doco on this by now? Fibreglass shards from the slide, batshit crazy owners, "not for individual sale" cokes in the fridge, drownings, life guards smoking butts at the slide...tip of the iceburg.
Rating: 1/10
Eric - Hamilton
05th July 2014
Rating: 1/10
Eric - Hamilton
05th July 2014
353
so when is it going to be back up and running maybe council should buy it ?? it was a primo place to be late eighties early nineties when I was a kid packed to the day and the challenges on the log getting it bouncing sure it hurt a few of us males haha slides were primo typical of nz every thing is run down the country is broke splash planet was going backwards last time there to its a real shame cause these were great nz places
Rating: 10/10
cathro - nz
05th June 2014
Rating: 10/10
cathro - nz
05th June 2014
352
To the MOANERS-Get a life and stop finding faults that are'nt there. Okay there are some things that could do with a bit of repair and revamp but too big a change would spoil WAINGARO'S authenticity. I and my daughter worked for Amro and she makes sure we have those toilets,units, motels, kitchen in the past caravans spick n span clean. Amro checked work to make sure we cleaned properly, so I don't know how her standards have changed drastically to cause these the bad reviews. Yea Amro is a straight shooter but if anyone needs help she will help if she can. I know from experience, you can get a lot of rude, demanding customers, also the Singh's have to put up with a lot of prejudice crap-so come on give them a fair go. And you reckon the water is murky sometimes-the rule in the pools is wear proper swimwear(Togs and white t-shirts if you need to) but you get people wearing coloured tops any shorts(some jeans) this is mighty hard to control because people ignore the rules. Babies taken in pools with no swim nappy and crap so the pool has to be closed off until it is cleaned. I don't know if other pools suffer the same problems I would surely like to find out. So one cannot help but lose the plot sometimes, quite frustrating. If areas have'nt been cleaned Amro's workers must be pretty slack-because everyone has designated areas to clean and be responsible for. So give the SINGH'S a break for goodness sake, what they have done to the pools is a big improvement to what was years past and the pool charges are pretty reasonable compared to other areas. Instead of big moans make a list of things you believe they need to change and post it to them. It's a BIG job running that type of business and if you don't have reliable good staff one could have problems. So when the pools re-open I hope you all come back to Waingaro and and enjoy our countryside again-give AMRO & CHOOD another chance, I'm sure there will be good changes. From a Local and longtime pool user.
Rating: 8/10
Hiria Maniapoto - Hamilton
30th May 2014
Rating: 8/10
Hiria Maniapoto - Hamilton
30th May 2014
351
Yup, Custy service was SHIT, cabins are SHIT, slide is DANGEROUS and SHIT, lifeguards, what lifeguards? but the water was absolutely loooovely and the pub food just yuuum! Just needs a bit off love.
Rating: -/10
jacky - mangere
18th May 2014
Rating: -/10
jacky - mangere
18th May 2014
350
yeah,the pools are shit. dont go there. pubs worth a visit though, friendly staff. some of the locals look a bit scary but they always make you feel welcome and are quite often extremely funny. the pubs a bit run down but that adds to the character, after all it is a very old pub. great view of the pools and hills from veranda. fantastic windy roads if your on a motorbike. great destination for a ride. like going back in time.
Rating: -/10
will -
15th March 2014
Rating: -/10
will -
15th March 2014
349
every time ive visited waingaro hotsprings the water has been nice and clean very beautiful scenery great customer service very well looked after all round great place to be 10/10
Rating: -/10
matt doherty -
08th February 2014
Rating: -/10
matt doherty -
08th February 2014
348
No 343 (Bronson) Either you have a warped sense of humour or you are a relation of the Singhs.This place has been closed because of safety and health reasons through lack of care, attention and upkeep.
These people deserve all they get as they have had their hand out for a long time and have given little back.
They dont even have the courtesy to place 'closed ' signs at major turnoffs to Waingaro some 20 kms away, so you dont know until you get there that it is shut down.
Thumbs down to them as this could be an awesome tourist jewel if it were handled properly but sadly too much money may be needed to bring it up to standard and most unlikely from its current owners. Its certainly the Fawlty Towers of hot pools and is likely to stay that way until a new owner has the guts to take it on.
Rating: -/10
shirley -
05th February 2014
Rating: -/10
shirley -
05th February 2014
347
OMFG What a joke of a place. I am so angry even a day later I am spewing about this shit hole. Let me tel you NZ all the negative comments about this place is true, even though we didnt get to experience the filthy looking premises I believe it all. Let me tell you this readers, on a scorching hot day my husband and I and our 4 kids all under 7, drove a long, hot, loooooong windy drive to the pools only to find the fking thing was closed. No signs anywhere so say so. I so wished I had of seen these reviews before hand. Not only that the fling website dosent even say its closed. The end of the school holidays and we thought we,d do one last whanau thing together and dum ass me chose this place as we had never been before. What an absolute waste of space. I hope the council shut it down or someone else takes over. At least I know never to wonder again what it will be like at Waingaro hot springs. I know we will never go back, and I haven't stop ringing friends and whanau to tell them don't waste their time and gas.
We went yesterday. 0/10
31 jan 2014
Rating: -/10
Mel - Manukau
01th February 2014
Rating: -/10
Mel - Manukau
01th February 2014
346
Chood and Amro are good people. No question. You just need to take the time to get to know them. They are really funny. It must be understood that Amro is an extreme extrovert. You will not find anyone more extrovert than Amro. She is fearless and will speak her mind in any situation. That is just how she is. Putting water quality aside, much criticism stems from differing cultural values and ideology and should be considered in this light. The caste system mentality should be appreciated for the humour it evokes. Visitors to Waingaro are randomly treated to what amounts to quality, free, spontaneous, live, reality comedy theatre, that eclipes even the very best TV comedy, like Fawlty Towers. Basil Fawlty routinely abuses and insults his staff and patrons. That is what makes him so funny. Instead of taking offence when Amro shouts at patrons in person, or yells at them over the loud speaker, or blows her whistle and pokes them with a pole, they
should appreciate how lucky they are to be involved in such high quality, real life reality comedy. Imagine what it would cost to employ John Cleese, (Basil Fawlty), to fulfill this role?? The patrons get this free entertainment for no extra outlay. They are very lucky and should recognise what comical gems Amro and family are.
Unfortunately, the comedy element is counter productive and lost on the average visitor. Instead of appreciating the humour, the visiting public often take offence and stay away in droves.
If Amro (conservatively) abuses, shouts at or offends only one person per week, that amounts to 1000 people over 20 years. Virtually none of these patrons will return. Statistically, each aggrieved customer in such incidences, then tells 10 potential customers, on average. That amounts to 10,000 individuals that will boycott the venue. Unfortunately, this is the single most significant factor in the decline of attendance. Prior to the Singh family tenure, the place was always packed, the car parks crowded and vehicles parked on the road outside. That is how packed it was. Now, you can go there anytime and the place will be virtually empty. Amro, despite her best intentions, has unwittingly decimated the turnover to a fraction of what it was previously. Sadly, l
ocals just don't go there. Previously, a large number went weekly, from all around the district. Kiwis seem to take offence far too easily and fail to realise the value of the live comical theatre unfolding before them. We can learn from them - Kiwis need to get a sense of humour.
So what if she shouts at you or blows her whistle and pokes you with a pole? So what? Yes, I know it's not normal but it is extremely funny, you must admit. And that is how it should be viewed.
I rate Chood and Amro's unique reality theatre very highly, at 10/10.
Rating: 10/10
Bronsan -
27th January 2014
Rating: 10/10
Bronsan -
27th January 2014
345
Bugger these are closed, went to both the pools north of Auckland, so many people in the pools you could not move, just looking at this made me not want to go in, so my family got a refund, compared entry prices, plus distence travelled to locations, we live in Manukau, so cheaper and a nicer trip for a family outing Waingaro still the better and cheaper place to go. Waingaro is an older complex but the water entering the pools is fresh hot spring water 'people complaining of cloudy water, maybe they should close there eyes underwater,I have never seen it cloudy, always seems clean to me, I would not swim if I had any doubts, come on Waingaro get up and running sooner the better ...
Rating: 9/10
Robert Cumming - NZ
27th January 2014
Rating: 9/10
Robert Cumming - NZ
27th January 2014
344
DONT STAY!! BAD SERVICE, OUTDATED, NOT CLEAN, NOT WORTH IT!!!
Rating: 1/10
Johnny - Auckland
13th January 2014
Rating: 1/10
Johnny - Auckland
13th January 2014
343
SHIT!!!!!!!!!was just thinking about this place and going for a visit again and taking my 8 year old son.. its been about 12 years since i have been and what i can remember from that visit, was by the sounds of it nothing has changed they the owners are still rude as!!!!! and out dated food!!!!!.we remember that to!!!!..hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!!! so many mixed reviews but my inner self is swaying towards its still the outdated place it was.....by the sounds of it,you would of been extremely lucky to go there when the bumper boats actually worked...sounds like same excuse used for last 12 years...and they the water slides have always just been turned on for a certain amount of time..so nothing changed there......but in-saying this i still mite just take that trip down when it re opens as i remember the slides were alot of fun and they didnt mind us standing up on the speed slide...now you gota love that....will give another review once i return when its opens again....Geeeeeeeee i really hope im not gona be asking for my money back....flmfao...also to all aussies .....come on i grew up in aussie as a kid and you will never find any water slides that compete in nz at all..shame really cause they so much fun.......the speed slide here is best slide in nz and only because you can stand up on it.......some please build a decent water slide park in nz.......
Rating: -/10
bobby - waitakere,nz
11th January 2014
Rating: -/10
bobby - waitakere,nz
11th January 2014
342
Wow, I was reading the reviews and am shocked. I met Amro and she is as straight up as you can get. The pools were shut down which my kids were disapointed about, so we decided to camp there. We had a wonderful time and Amro was so friendly and made sure we were all ok. She even let us leave whenever we liked - no time limit. It was expensive, but she also gave us a discount. The toilets were clean, the kitchen was spotless. There were 3 other campers, and we all had a great time. The owners have run this venue for the last 20 odd years. They are trying to fix the place up so everyone is safe. Don't look at the nationality of owners, it has nothing to do with it. They are NZders. We intend to camp again, and if the pools are open, it would be good, if not, we will enjoy our family time together as we did on 1/01.
Rating: -/10
Lototau - Manukau
10th January 2014
Rating: -/10
Lototau - Manukau
10th January 2014
341
Why are you still advertising on TV 5.30pm 24/12/2013 if the pools are closed then
Rating: -/10
Rossco - NZ
24th December 2013
Rating: -/10
Rossco - NZ
24th December 2013
340
These hot pools have been closed by the authorities and anyone wishing to travel there should ring before going. The hotel is not been closed as it operated seperately.
Confirmed on 24 Dec 2013. The hydroslides and hot pools are closed until repairs are complete. Expected re-opening: beginning of February. Accommodation is still open. - Sheldon Nesdale, NZHotPools.co.nz
Rating: -/10
column - nz
22th December 2013
339
Rude staff, filthy pool and dried blood on the paths...
Avoid at all costs
Rating: 2/10
Anthony - Timaru
08th December 2013
Rating: 2/10
Anthony - Timaru
08th December 2013
338
Worst experience of my life. Totally misrepresented on website. Dirty, old and unloved. Hygiene wise, I wouldn't even wash my face in the basin.
Rating: 1/10
Joanne Clark - Auckland New Zealand
28th November 2013
Rating: 1/10
Joanne Clark - Auckland New Zealand
28th November 2013
337
Just out of curiosity I Googled Waingaro springs to see if the place had changed but obviously not. I was there about 2010 and I had the worst experience anyone could imagine. It's really disappointing to realise that all the complaints that have been made (even on this site) concerning Waingaro Springs have had no effect whatsoever. The Managers have not responded favourably, like you say, they don't care....Many years ago my ancestors used to bathe in the therapeutic springs of Waingaro, it's such a tragedy.
Rating: -/10
Pauline Mackenzie - Australia
05th November 2013
Rating: -/10
Pauline Mackenzie - Australia
05th November 2013
336
To start off, the last time I came here was last year and the place was absolutely SHOCKING. The only reason why I looked this place up is to see if they finally changed the owners... When we arrived, we paid for entry and slides; after nearly 10 mins of waiting, because no one was at the desk!! The owners have a real hostile demeanour, and presented themselves as if they just didnt care, and that was reflected throughout the entire establishment. The slides look run down and un-safe -- The pools water was murky and questionable -- the bbq area was disgusting- and dont get me started on the toilets.... The "lifeguard"; yes just the one, didnt care, and was letting grown men go down the slide all at once, which seemed very dangerous, and that entire time, no one was watching the main pool; If we didnt drive so far, and pay so much, we would of just left, but this experience was enough to turn me off it for a long time. This place has the potential for greatness! Bu tthe owners simply do not care! They need to show some love into this iconic water park. But until some changes are made, I dont see me coming back again. PS; it is obvious that the owners fake comments on this page, the last 2 reviews are identical, and were posted on the same day :/ come on; thats just LOW.
Rating: 1/10
Val P - Auckland
29th October 2013
Rating: 1/10
Val P - Auckland
29th October 2013
335
on be half of my whanau we would like to thank the staff for their hospitality. we had a wonderful time at Waingaro Hot Pools. The Staff was great and the facilities were outstanding. it was that awesome my whanau and i are doing it again this weekend.
Rating: 10/10
Nicole Brown - New Zealand
22th October 2013
Rating: 10/10
Nicole Brown - New Zealand
22th October 2013
334
to the staff of Waingaro Hot Pools on behalf of my whanau i would like to thank you guys very much, had a Tu meke time.
the cabins were awesome, the pools were awesome. my mokopuna really enjoy themselves. yes i read the reviews and yes i was a bit spectacle about coming down, and im glad that i did because i would recommend Waingaro Hot Pools to everyone
Rating: 10/10
F. Wiki - Auckland
22th October 2013
Rating: 10/10
F. Wiki - Auckland
22th October 2013
333
I dont agree with the rotten comments on here the staff were friendly not rude!! and i enjoyed my couple of hours with the family when we visited for the day and hmm this mark fella SHOCKING that is all .!!
Rating: -/10
Frazy - Auckland
18th October 2013
Rating: -/10
Frazy - Auckland
18th October 2013
332
Went there for 1 night, and it was 1 night to long, the motel room smelt, the sheets weren't clean the coffee was rock hard the mattress on the QB had springs in it thats how old the mattress was. I barely had a wink of sleep all night. Wld not recommend it to any one, they charged us $168.50 for the night which was way to expensive.
The authorities need to go out and look at the motel and the pool, seriously don't go.
Rating: -/10
Bev - Aus
18th October 2013
Rating: -/10
Bev - Aus
18th October 2013
331
Garbage do not go!!!!!! I just worked there for 1 week got paid $3 per hour!!!!!!!! Dirty, unsafe, no qualified lifeguards, rotten or expired food and the owner is obnoxious and extremely rude
Rating: 1/10
mark houltham -
09th October 2013
Rating: 1/10
mark houltham -
09th October 2013
330
So.... we went to waingaro hot pools last night for a nephews birthday party... I should go back in time first... Back in the late 90's, we used to go to waingaro hot pools nearly every weekend. It was the 'place to go'. It was always packed full of people, facilities were modern and clean. I loved the bumper boats and the slide. The last time I was there (back in the late 1990's), I brought a bag of chips and when I opened them, they were completly stale. No crunch. I took them back and asked if I could swap them or get my money back. The male indian owner, took a chip out of the bag, put it in his mouth and chewed that rubbery chip (no crunch) then proceeded to tell me that there was nothing wrong with the chips and i should just eat them. I couldnt believe it! Ended up in a stand off, I wasnt leaving without a full refund of the chips, he wasnt going to give me my couple of bucks back. In the end he did. Worst customer service ever. So due to bad customer service combined with falling standards of hygiene and tired looking facilities, I havent been back since then. If we went to the hot pools we went to Te Aroha. Same distance from Hamilton, they are smaller, but are much nicer. Great service and the private spas are amazing. Anyway, back to last night. So I pull up, go inside the little office, there is the same indian man who gave me bad customer service 14 or so years ago. Is he going to wow me this time around? I stand and wait to be served... and wait... and wait... he is on a phone call. Speaking in indian, so I'm going to assume its not a customer. So after he finished his phone call that was obviously far more important then a paying customer standing right infrount of him, I am finally served. When I drive in I immediatly notice a couple of things. The first is, NOTHING has changed since I was last there, NOTHING! Well... except the log is gone. The second is that there is practically noone there! There were maybe three cars in the parking lot. Says a lot. Guess I'm not the only one to not come back after bad service... This is what a place looks like when it has had no cash investment in it for a long time. Everything is tired. It could be such an awesome place again if some serious money was spent on it. The pools were nice and hot. We all jumped strait in and immediatly had fun. As we had lots of little kids it was a little annoying when the little kids pool was empited at about 6pm (we stayed till nearly 9pm). The water was nice and hot, and seemed clean. And once the sun went down you couldnt see how tired everthing was. We actually had a really good time. And I loved that noone was there. We practically had the pool to ourselves. The lifeguard was nice and friendly, but I thought it was a bit dodgy that a couple of times I looked around and I couldnt see him anywhere... ? And once I looked up and he was sitting up in a building watching us out the window eating a huge bag of chips. If a kid drowned there is no way he could have got to us in time... I'm sure there are some rules about that...? We had to laugh though, as when it got dark they turned the tv on, and you'll never guess what was playing... a latest release movie...? Comedy? Romance? A funny reality show? Something for the kids maybe...? No, coronation st. The tv screen above the pool at Waingaro hot pools played coronation st. Hilarious! So overall, if you want a ride in the bumper boats, forget it, there was no water in the pool. If you want flash facilities, this is not the place for you. If you want to relax in a hot pool and have a bit of fun with the family, and have low expectations with regards to facilities and customer serivce, then this is your place. We would go again. My advice, go with low expectations and you'll have a good time.
Rating: -/10
Yvette (honest truth) - Hamilton
05th October 2013
Rating: -/10
Yvette (honest truth) - Hamilton
05th October 2013
329
We had a wonderful time relaxing, swimming and chillin around the pools for three days. The slides were fantastic, a must for everyone to have a go!
Check this place out it is cool.
Rating: 6/10
Janine - Tauranga
05th October 2013
Rating: 6/10
Janine - Tauranga
05th October 2013
328
My eldest daughter is 37 years old, that is how long i have visited the pools, over that time I have found mine and my family visits 'an awsome time out from the busy hussle of life' relaxing in the pools, the toilets are spotless. I have been at the pools when school groups have attended and watched the lifeguards cast a watchful eye on the swimmers. At times we have stayed in there cabin and motels, these have always been cleaned to a high standard with fresh sheets etc. By chance I stayed in the motel that the family is complaining of 'fleas' I can say this is absolute rubbish. For a family day out the pool is value for money. The owners and there staff want every visiter to return, so they don't provided bad service, however I have observed some visiters behaving badly, these ones are asked to leave, so others can continue to enjoy a hazzle free relaxing experience. 'By the way' did the person who wrote about the bumper boats not operating did you ask why they were not operating instead of writing negative feed back' I asked and was told the last big flood from the mountains behind caused a problem so the water inside the bumper boat area needed to be emptied 'some things humans can not control' Go to the pools enjoy :)
Rating: 10/10
Susan Dalziel - New Zealand
02th October 2013
Rating: 10/10
Susan Dalziel - New Zealand
02th October 2013
327
Very bad experience! Staff very rude. Stayed in motel after few hours noticed was being attacked by fleas notified owned and she accused us of lieing. Asked us to capture fleas to prove we weren't lieing. Linen was disgusting very smelly. Door locks broken to unit so was unable to leave bags inside. Left after fews hours very upset and with no refund!!!!
Rating: 1/10
Jamiee - Auckland
21th September 2013
Rating: 1/10
Jamiee - Auckland
21th September 2013
326
I am very suspicious of people posting negative comments on here...maybe they have vested interests in other places!! We visited 10th August, 2013 and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Rating: 7/10
Maria Williams - Auckland
16th August 2013
Rating: 7/10
Maria Williams - Auckland
16th August 2013
325
Old and tired place needs a lot of improvement to be the place it was in the 80's.
Would not recommend to overseas tourists.
Motel clean and tidy but dated.
Had to laugh at the "lifesaving" device - a tyre tube with short rope!
2nd visit in a lifetime and that's probably it for me!
Rating: 3/10
Greg - Jaffa
07th August 2013
Rating: 3/10
Greg - Jaffa
07th August 2013
324
Very disappointing. Having just recently stayed at Miranda & de Bretts' holiday parks and used their hot pools there is just no comparison. The complete needs a lot of money spent on it to bring it up to standard. No problems were experienced with the management or staff. We would not return.
Rating: 2/10
Coral - NZ
31th July 2013
Rating: 2/10
Coral - NZ
31th July 2013
323
Haveing spent three nights in a lovely motel room, swimming from early morning till late at night, we enjoyed it all. We exepted the slides would only run when the staff had time to spend supervising them, but they ran for so long my kids gave up before they closed down again. We all had a laugh a minite on the bumper-boats. The staff, from the cleaners, to the attendents, and the owners were friendly and helpfull to my grandsons and I, and we intend going back often.
Rating: 8/10
TE PUKE 3 - NZ
25th July 2013
Rating: 8/10
TE PUKE 3 - NZ
25th July 2013
322
our grandma took us to waingaro for the july school holidays, and we had a great time. we were able to bomb,yell,slide,bump, eat ice creem, drink l&p, and then sleep piecefully all night. The hot chips at the pub were lovely too. and he made us all a shirley temple to drink. Thank you to every one for the best holiday ever. sean and eliah.
Rating: 9/10
sean and eliah - tepuke
25th July 2013
Rating: 9/10
sean and eliah - tepuke
25th July 2013
321
It is nice to see since the last time I was there (circa 2 years ago), that there has been considerable and continuous improvement. To be fair nothing has changed since I was a boy (besides the absence of a notoriously large and slippery wrestle log, and we only went swimming), but as far as how the hot soak experience went - the water was hot and clear, there is lots of fresh paint and the single staff member was very friendly. At $11 for adults and $6 for kids I think the relaxation dollar couldn't go any further!
Rating: 6/10
Michael - Hamilton
24th July 2013
Rating: 6/10
Michael - Hamilton
24th July 2013
320
went there with an open mind after reading reviews, however the reviews that state 1/10 are correct. think twice about traveling to this place unless you like getting abused by the owners, cabins were dirty the condensation was so bad. staff are not trained lifeguards as they make out. my daughter came out of hydroslide and got injured and they didnt know what to do they didnt even have an incident book. Honestly this place should be closed down it is disgusting
Rating: 1/10
Susan -
23th July 2013
Rating: 1/10
Susan -
23th July 2013
319
found the place to be a lil run down but in saying this maybe run down isnt the perfect word ' perhaps not modernized or out dated would be more fitting ' which was just damn marvelous if you ask me ' i found the place tranquil ' friendly/helpful staff ' my kids went on the bumper boats ' and the slide in fact they just absolutely loved it ' we have stayed in numerous places over the country and found the cost to be fair ' $6 for an all day hydro-slide compared to $5 for a half hour turn on the hydo-slide at our local pool in town more than value for money ' the cabin was clean and tidy ' WE WILL BE RETURNING :)
thankyou to the staff out Waingaro 20/7/13
Rating: 7/10
jacinda wilder - hamilton new zealand
22th July 2013
Rating: 7/10
jacinda wilder - hamilton new zealand
22th July 2013
318
I was really looking forward to seeing Waingaro as I had never been there! Although the place is a little outdated it was absolutely wonderful! We had and awesome day and the 6 children with me didn't want to leave! The staff were extremely helpful and friendly, in fact they gave us lots of laughs. Thank you we will be back :-) fantastic place for kids and the pools were lovely and hot! Awesome!
Rating: -/10
Karen - NZ
22th July 2013
Rating: -/10
Karen - NZ
22th July 2013
317
i called the owner he did not listen to my complaint an then i found this so the pools are very cold an we went ther at 11pm cas the add said 30 degrees dont go if you arewanting hot pool;s
Rating: 3/10
kevan -
11th July 2013
Rating: 3/10
kevan -
11th July 2013
316
I'm very suspicious of the good reviews this place has received, as from personal experience it is simply terrible.
Perhaps the people who are posting positive comments have some vested interest?
Rating: -/10
Suspicious -
09th July 2013
Rating: -/10
Suspicious -
09th July 2013
315
If anyone ever had two ask me were is my happy place it will be waingaro hot springs owners AAA class staff very very helpful pools very clean motels flat cabins all very clean I've been recovering from cancer now for 3yrs and in the 3yrs I've made waingaro my home away form home I can not beleave the amount of rubbish that people put on here about this very Special place with very special people thank you very much Amro an Chood for allowing me to rest my head an body from all the pain me and my family has been faced with in the last 3yrs you haved walked with us thank you thank you thank you very much form my family two yours Josie xxxx
Rating: 10/10
Josie Kelly - Nz
08th July 2013
Rating: 10/10
Josie Kelly - Nz
08th July 2013
314
Took my Partner , 4 year old son & 13 year old brother in-law to this place. We really enjoyed ourselfs ! Pools were very clean ! Staff very friendly ! Slides a bit scary but my partner & brother inlaw LOVED them ! We swam for like 5 hours ! Definitely worth the trip & a bonus that it was so cheap ! Thinking about staying in the cabinsthis weekend :)
Rating: 8/10
Tiare - Auckland
25th June 2013
Rating: 8/10
Tiare - Auckland
25th June 2013
313
Strangely no other pool complex on this site has anywhere near the difference in reviews this place does.
It's either great and friendly 8, 9 or 10
Or
rude and dirty 1, 2, 3
Advertising standards had a rating of "Missleading" when they upheld 2 complaints!
Rating: -/10
Errr really - Auckland
17th June 2013
Rating: -/10
Errr really - Auckland
17th June 2013
312
we loved it after a nice and windy bike ride to soak in the hot pools. compare to other pools we thought the price wasn't too bad
Rating: 10/10
John -
12th June 2013
Rating: 10/10
John -
12th June 2013
311
Had a large group of 40 stay in cabins n flat 4 queens birthday weekend. Overall the kids love the pools, sure it could do with some work and maintenance but its pretty good value and we will definetly return. I dealt with the owner a lot to organise the wkd and she's not rude just straight up.
Rating: 7/10
Ange Sua -
09th June 2013
Rating: 7/10
Ange Sua -
09th June 2013
310
We stayed at Waingaru Hot Springs last weekend.
All the facilities we used were clean and tidy, lawns and staff friendly and helpful. It was so nice to watch families having fun and listening to their laughter a delight.
Looking forward to another visit.
Rating: -/10
Sheryl Roberts - NZ
08th June 2013
Rating: -/10
Sheryl Roberts - NZ
08th June 2013
309
OK so I know everyone is entitled to their own opinion, But I think some of yous are going abit O.T.T come on the place could be far worse. But I mean if its not your cup of tea I suppose you don't go back. Simple as!?! I'm having my baby's first birthday there and I couldn't be more excited I fell in love with it my first time going there. The place could do with a little work but nothing major not to the point where your calling it a hole. Its amazing. I'm looking forward to July will see yours there staff :-) I would recommend this plac for people wanting ton relax with not so many prying eyes staring at you its not to packed its lovely and the area around nature omg. Love love it thankyous will be back heaps
Rating: 8/10
Caroline Woods - Hamilton
08th June 2013
Rating: 8/10
Caroline Woods - Hamilton
08th June 2013
308
What an awesome swim I had at the Waingaro Hot Pools this evening, Thank you to the lovely hosts, you can appreciate them if you have an open mind and a sense of humor. If you are an anal person you will miss out on the beauty this place provides. I love it just as it is. Magic and clean, Don`t miss out on the relaxing experience. It beats Waterworld anyday.
Rating: -/10
kate - New Zealand
01th June 2013
Rating: -/10
kate - New Zealand
01th June 2013
307
Be warned. Bumper boats don't operate. Camp sites very small and neglected. Power cut did damage to motor home. No apology from owner and she was very rude when I spoke to her. Staff that live on site noisy all night. One of oe kids got sick after accidentally drank pool water. Place very run down.
Rating: 3/10
Craig - Hamilton
30th May 2013
Rating: 3/10
Craig - Hamilton
30th May 2013
306
First experience for most of our kids,we all enjoyed it...in fact am thinking of going back for couple nights for daughters birthday....all u moaners why go there for? Its worth the drive ,pretty much can do as u please there
Rating: 7/10
winstah -
09th May 2013
Rating: 7/10
winstah -
09th May 2013
305
NO Bumper Boats? been like this for awhile me think... wasn't that part of the complaint to ASA some time back with the first being late 2010.
Nice to see they appear to still have the same pictures on their website that were ruled as old by Advertising standards authority... camera still not working I guess.
Err conditions apply... what are these exactly? as can't appear to find these, on their website!
So no bumper boats... still by the looks of the reviews.
Muddy outside... to be fair it was hot when I visited.
Still appear to have every other review saying its a hole...
Still you are welcome to check out the reviews by the "ADVERTISING STANDARDS AUTHORITY" there are two of them that the complaint was upheld in recent years.
Rating: -/10
james - Auckland
02th May 2013
Rating: -/10
james - Auckland
02th May 2013
304
Pools from Drive in Entry look inviting...
Nice Drive up to the Cabins - Unfortunately we parked our vehicle outside our cabin, it was a little Tight - and very Muddy at the time. *(need more Gravel).
Cabins are equipped, Electrics all go - note to oneself (Bring your own Bedding) as the under-sheet and pillows are a bit Stale... Eewww.
There are about Eight Cabins: two toilets and one shower in the Ladies, I suppose it's the same in the Mens too - *(Surely there's a handy man in your community, have you thought to extend the Bathroom/s?).
Major Disappointment and must be removed from the Brochure - NO Takeaway Bar, - solution: bring a couple of loaves Buttered Bread, Sausages and Sauce the BBQ's $10.00 for an hour, no biggie to bring your own Fruit and Drinks - if your rich The Tuck shop is there so bring plenty of Dosh.
NO Bumper Boats? been like this for awhile *(need a Handy man to fix & a Pool fella to sort that yukkie pool out).
OMGsh the Kitchen is home for Birds eg: holes where they make their nests, Eewww the smell in the kitchen is Grosse - The Grill on all stoves don't work, too grotty I wouldn't dare make toast in there anyway. If you are camping in a Tent, you are out of luck - Cabins have Toasters and Fridges.
*(Please call your Handy man and fix your Stoves and give the place a Major Disinfecting - need a Builder to Fix the holes in the Ceiling too)
Hydro-slide: One life guard? you really need another at the top too - this will help avoid pile up of swimmers crashing into each other on the way down the slides / Life guard should let the swimmers know not to run up that wet slippery path way - I've seen many accidents happen there *(Safety is Priority).
Amro is Wonderful, helpful and her and her Family work very Hard - it would Be Awesome if Hamilton council pulled the community together for a Service project on this place.
Many hands can make a difference.
Will be watching out for changes, we'll be Back.
Rating: 3/10
WillKat - AUCKLAND
30th April 2013
Rating: 3/10
WillKat - AUCKLAND
30th April 2013
303
i was think about takeing my kids i hvent been there in yrs last time i thk it was indian`s running it ??? but readin wot pple hve writein dont think i will be goin there sounds a bit nasty :(
Rating: -/10
vik f - hamilton
30th April 2013
Rating: -/10
vik f - hamilton
30th April 2013
302
Having been a regular swimmer here in my teens, I just couldn't believe the bad reviews and had to see it for myself. Well the hot pool wasn't hot...about the same temp as the big pool...no mor than 25/26C. The hot (not) pool had bits of flaky something floating throught the water and what looking like clumps of hair rolling around the bottom. The big pool was cloudy an felt yuk. The hot (not) pool used to have continuous flow of hot water flowing in...this isn't the case now. It is like what you would expect from stagnant water. IMHO this is a case of amoebic meningitis waiting to happen. The showers have cold water only (they have a sign that says this). The games room is locked and in a cage. The bumper boat pool has only 3 boats, the other shells are on the decking. Overall i would advvise against going here. I was here 10 minutes and got my money back. Amro gave me my money back, clearly not happy, but there was no yelling or screaming. Price was reasonable if they get their act together.
A real pity they have ruined this tourist icon.
Rating: 2/10
Shane - Melbourne/Australia
30th April 2013
Rating: 2/10
Shane - Melbourne/Australia
30th April 2013
301
Had a great time here, staff were very friendly. Looking to stay longer next time, cheap compared to other places we stay in and the cabin stay included swimming in the pool both days.also great for young kids it had a playground, tramp and swings . can't complain.
Rating: 8/10
Vanessa - New Zealand
14th April 2013
Rating: 8/10
Vanessa - New Zealand
14th April 2013
300
My review was very bad... and it was upheld by the advertising standards authority. (independent)
Its strange this complaint led to the withdrawal of their TV advert as missleading...
So quite how you can swing between 1 out of 10, then the next says clean and wonderful 9/10 out of 10.
I'll let you make your own choice if the reviews are real or fake. but the place being dirty and nothing like the advert was upheld.
Now look at fast food adverts to see how bad the representation has to be to be missleading.
I personally advise take your money else where!
Rating: 1/10
James - New Zealand
14th April 2013
Rating: 1/10
James - New Zealand
14th April 2013
299
awesome place beautiful cabbins awesome hospitality all round fun i recommend it to anyone whos thinking of going just had my sons 2nd birthday there and now were planning a trip back cant wait... dont let the bad remarks put you off you'll be the one missing out
Rating: 10/10
shontae - new zealand
07th April 2013
Rating: 10/10
shontae - new zealand
07th April 2013
298
Wow, what hilarious, cheap entertainment. I never knew reading reviews could be so funny! Obviously everybody has their OWN opinion and they are entitled to it. That's why this review page is here. And OBVIOUSLY people do have bad days. If you are trying to run a business though, there are few do's and don'ts to be concidered. And if any old, smelly, grumpy person yelled at my son in public for making a mistake and broke a rule, I would crack them! There are way better ways to handle situations and if you can't, and lose ya rag in public... time to retire and let someone else, more patient deal with that kind of job that OBVIOUSLY needs patients. Yeah nah... not going! Boo for you guys for waaaay too many bad reviews. Time to pull finger I think. Well Over 60% negative.
Rating: -/10
Duzzintmatter - Te Puke NEW ZEALAND
04th April 2013
Rating: -/10
Duzzintmatter - Te Puke NEW ZEALAND
04th April 2013
297
Just returned from our third Easter weekend spent at Waignaro - another brilliant weekend. Great venue, great company, great time. Perfect for our very large group and the pools and slides are enough to keep our kids happy and entertained. Are the hot springs a little dated? Sure, but that is what we love about them.
Rating: 10/10
Kerry - Auckland/New Zealand
02th April 2013
Rating: 10/10
Kerry - Auckland/New Zealand
02th April 2013
296
went recently to these pools and found these pools to be pleasantly suprised :) was quiet and peaceful, the facilities were in good condition
Rating: -/10
amy howard - hamilton new zealand
02th April 2013
Rating: -/10
amy howard - hamilton new zealand
02th April 2013
295
just reading the reviews put me off abit....but can someone post some recent pics up...i mean is it that bad? was thinking of having my daughters 16th birthday there...still deciding...but the reviews are poor....hope management are looking to better there facilities...i was just gonna book, going by the photos but i i wll check it out next wkend...thanks for the feedback tho
Rating: -/10
janet - auckland
30th March 2013
Rating: -/10
janet - auckland
30th March 2013
294
Awesome place to stay and ave fun with the kids!. Great water slide, not overpacked. Lovely people running the place (Amro, you rock!!). Definitely going again for longer.
Rating: 9/10
Paula - Auckland nz
24th March 2013
Rating: 9/10
Paula - Auckland nz
24th March 2013
293
we came down for a weekend getaway for me and my husband first time in 6 years we had the best time it was wonderful the staff were great the pools were nice and clean and our cabin was very clean and tidy thankyou very much will be back again
Rating: 10/10
lynette and adrian - new zealand
19th March 2013
Rating: 10/10
lynette and adrian - new zealand
19th March 2013
292
I chose to take my family to Waingaro for the weekend to celebrate our baby’s 1st birthday…ABSOLUTELY wonderful! All the staff were so friendly and hospitable. With the hot weather, baby’s cake was melting, they kindly put it in the shop fridge NO moaning! OK, if you are stuck up and want 5 star you wont get that from Waingaro, if you want safe, fun, friendly, relaxing – go to Waingaro. We have made future reservations – Thank You Amro & Staff, see you in Easter! Rangi & Whanau
Rating: 9/10
Rangi - Auckland, NZ
26th February 2013
Rating: 9/10
Rangi - Auckland, NZ
26th February 2013
291
I have not been to the waingaro pools for many years,and never again. It was too dirty. i grew up at waingaro and swam there most weekends in my primary school days. Those days it was a great place, clean and tidy and friendly. What a shame some people dont know how to keep an attraction like this pristine.
Rating: -/10
Kathy - nz
21th February 2013
Rating: -/10
Kathy - nz
21th February 2013
290
I hadn't been to Waingaro for about 15 years and now witha young family was thinking of going. I read some of the reviews and was a bit worried so rang them to get some comments. They said "please come so you can see for yourself". We did and we had such a fabulous time! Everything was just wonderful! The pools and facilities were all very clean and the place is well laid out. Our children had a blast on the waterslides and their chocolate thick shakes were some of the best we've ever had. We had a perfect family day so I just wanted to let others know as it seems some of these reviews are not quite right.
We've told all of our friends that Waingaro is a great day out. I think it cost our family about $65 and that was for the pools and the slides which I think is pretty good for a water park.
Rating: 10/10
Kylie & Paul - Auckland
18th February 2013
Rating: 10/10
Kylie & Paul - Auckland
18th February 2013
289
There are alot of fake reviews in here. The real ones read something like 'expensive, rude, run down, unhygienic'. The fake ones read something like 'had a great time, owners loverly'. I was going to take a trip out there. perhaps not now I've this.
Rating: 1/10
Nigel Wade - Hamilton
02th February 2013
Rating: 1/10
Nigel Wade - Hamilton
02th February 2013
288
Omg reading these comments it's hard to believe that we have been to the same place. Took my kids there today and we had a great time the kids loved it we arrived half an hour after the slides had closed but paid a discounted price an the staff put them on for us. Later on in the evening I spoke with a man who had come up from Wellington he had just asked the staff to re open the slides at 7 pm which the did. As for the grumpy old lady I have read about in some comments she made me laugh yes with her whistle it is her head that will roll if anyone gets hurt n let's face it you don't f round with water. So I say blow your whistle. Really enjoyable visit today as for the surroundings loved the sheep. If you want somewhere up to date n flash go to the city. They have obviously had people trying to get in for nothing n let's face people do try it. This is a business not a free pool. That's to all the staff will be back again
Rating: 9/10
Roseanne - Rangiriri
22th January 2013
Rating: 9/10
Roseanne - Rangiriri
22th January 2013
287
our group was standing in line ready to pay in the small office area. then the old lady AMNO?or whatever her name was ordered us to return to our cars and she wanted us to come back in by 1 car at a time. which we thought was just f%&kn stupid. and for us to move our car 1 meter forward. but couldnt because there was another car blocking the drive. and we didnt see any logic in it. but was extremely fast to grab the cash from our hands. first impressions surely do last. she does need to retire or need more training in customer service. anyway: the toilets were tidy. overall its a basic day out. nothing flash. nothing exciting.
Rating: 5/10
C. Nelly - AKL. NZ
20th January 2013
Rating: 5/10
C. Nelly - AKL. NZ
20th January 2013
286
Have just returned from a few days at Waingaro. We had a cabin which was clean. We had no expectations but were happy with what we got & the owners were very friendly & accomodating. The pools were clean & hot! & our boys spent many hours on the slides. All in all a nice time away & we will be returning.
Rating: -/10
Tracey Foley - Hibiscus Coast
18th January 2013
Rating: -/10
Tracey Foley - Hibiscus Coast
18th January 2013
285
a run down dump especially the showers, toilets and kitchen (very poorly maintained and not enough toilets and showers and kitchen had almost no appliances.) The camping sites were also of poor standard and the prices too high ($75 for 1 night for one adult and two 14 year olds (they consider over 13 to be an adult) in a non powered camp site. Very embarrassed to think that this place is being promoted to overseas tourists.
Rating: 1/10
Peter Tranter - Auckland New Zrealnd
15th January 2013
Rating: 1/10
Peter Tranter - Auckland New Zrealnd
15th January 2013
284
Was just looking for the site to find contact details. After reading all these comments i think we wont be going here.
Rating: -/10
Daniel - NZ
13th January 2013
Rating: -/10
Daniel - NZ
13th January 2013
283
6monhts of planning for a family reunion and a 60th birthday, was almost ruined because of the incompetent, rude and arrogant management. we had booked all cabins and flats to accommodate our family for this special occasion. On our arrival we were expected to pay for our bookings upfront of which some paid, we soon discovered as people were arriving that a cabin and the flats were double booked or were occupied by the owners family. Oh where to sleep all these people? hmmm then the fun begins and the shit hit the fan! The rude smelly arrogant man owner said we had never made that booking..What an idiot. They denied getting phone calls and the email,,unbelievable. He then called my mum a liar, even after my mother and sister drove there and made the booking in person, and was followed up by phone calls and emails.
But after some heated words, they moved there family out of the cabin and flats to accomodate us.....The cabins were filthy. They had dirty stained sheets, dishes & floors, a fridge that reeked of sour rotting milk. Only one cooker worked in one cabin. Smoke alarms didn't work. A cabin didn't lock, and when we asked for this to be fixed, they gave us two little screwdrivers to fix it our selves! Dodgy. The toilets and showers were gross and the list goes on. With all the kids we had, we made the most of the dodgy dangerous waterside and dirty pools. On a positive, we had an awesome get together due to the fact that the Hotel staff up the hill, were the most hospitable, friendly, down to earth, welcoming people you could ever meet. And that could be due to the fact that they are Kiwis...not the money hungry owners down the hill. So stay at the pub instead, if you still want to head this way
Rating: 1/10
Hayley - Rotorua, New Zealand
09th January 2013
Rating: 1/10
Hayley - Rotorua, New Zealand
09th January 2013
282
We have just returned from a weeks stay at Waingaro for the third year in a row.We also go there almost every Saturday night during the year.I have read the negative reviews and I believe them to be Bull S--t
Amro Chood and the staff do a great job Its simple if you don't like it stay away don't rubbish something after a single visit
Rating: 10/10
Peter Fairgray - Hamilton NZ
06th January 2013
Rating: 10/10
Peter Fairgray - Hamilton NZ
06th January 2013
281
$12. per head is a very cheap day for such a relaxing and theraputic soak in geothermal water. In fact it is one of the cheapest I know of. Do you expect the owners to work for nothing. I am health conscious and rarely have found the pools to be unclean, (maybe after hundreds of people have swarmed the place), but an old complex doesn`t mean it`s dirty. I have travelled the world and would be devastated if Waingaro Hot Springs weren`t available to me to use. It is the most relaxing, unwinding, healing place around. Go find somthing else to whinge about.
Rating: -/10
Kate Savage - New Zealand
05th January 2013
Rating: -/10
Kate Savage - New Zealand
05th January 2013
280
Having just spent 2013 new years there my family had a wonderful time and made the most of the pools and hydro-slide and the wonderful views of the beautiful landscape . The younger kids our babies didn't want to leave. Myself and my mother found the proprietors easy to deal with an only willing to help with any questions or issues we had. Yes for sure there are some necessary improvements that need implementing but nothing important enough to spoil my families brief holiday..... we wish the Singh family and there staff all the best for 2013 and will definitely be going back.....
Rating: 10/10
Landen Morrison - Hamilton NZ
02th January 2013
Rating: 10/10
Landen Morrison - Hamilton NZ
02th January 2013
279
having spent grandsons bday out there..waterslide excellent fun...bumper boats ripoff! old dated suroundings specially the bbq area..al filthy and rusty!Lady owner in reception was obviously ther just for the money she had an old calculator to add up our group (overcharged me a non swimmer then argued!)no people skills whatsover.....such a shame its a beautiful spot we had a great time...but felt it needs new owners to bring it back to former glory...pay booth is extremely dangerous a very busy road runs right pastwhere u have to stop to pay...and as for the lifeguards thats a joke! theyre not even on this planet!Sad but true sorry!
Rating: 3/10
disapointed - Raglan
23th December 2012
Rating: 3/10
disapointed - Raglan
23th December 2012
278
AVOID!!! It's interesting to read the varied comments of this place. I generally agree with all the negative comments. In brief - yes, it is terribly run-down and the owner fed us a pack of lies about the place. But the main thing that gets me is the ads that make it look and sound so appealing. This is such false advertising and so disappointing to make the effort to get there to be greeted by almost the complete opposite of the ads. I read so many reviews of "great childhood memories" and "take it for what it is", which would be fine if the ads were honest. No working bumper boats, green pool water in bumper boat pool (although owner said we could use them if we paid!!! - Urghhhh, no way!), horibble toilets, no new games room, unsafe stairs, crappy playground....... It gets 1/10 rating because at least the 2 functioning thermal pools felt warm.
Rating: 1/10
Karyn - Australia
11th December 2012
Rating: 1/10
Karyn - Australia
11th December 2012
277
The customer service we received from the staff at Waingaroa Springs was second to none. Amro and her team were exceptional. WE arrived at Waingaroa early and were able to check in before noon. Our children were really excited about going on the bumper boats and although they weren't scheldued to operate our hosts ensured we got our rides. Our cabin had all that we needed, beds, fridge, microwave, stove, table and chairs and cooking utensils but we elected instead to cook on the outside bbq's. On departure we were allowed to access the pools at 9 am instead of waiting until 9.30 am. A big thank you to all of the staff at Waingaroa. We look foward to seeing you all next year.
Rating: 8/10
The Te Amo Whanau - New Zealand
26th November 2012
Rating: 8/10
The Te Amo Whanau - New Zealand
26th November 2012
276
I must say the place wasnt the cleanest we spent one night in a cabin, and found it expensive however the kids loved the pools and my 6 year old said it was the best pools hes been too. But I dont see myself going back there again the manager was lovely very helpful
Rating: 4/10
Rachel - Auckland
16th November 2012
Rating: 4/10
Rachel - Auckland
16th November 2012
275
alot of my friends have been down here, and think waingaro hot springs is awesome!!!!
Rating: -/10
Denise Payne - Auckland, NZ
10th November 2012
Rating: -/10
Denise Payne - Auckland, NZ
10th November 2012
274
I have been extremely busy at work of late, and felt as if I had been neglecting my children lately working such ridiculous hours. I stole them away from school on a Friday afternoon. We arrived at Waingaro at 2:00 pm approx and waited for some time at the cashiers cabin. No one. We made our way down the driveway and saw some whom I thought must've been staff. She told us to go in and pay when the cabin was attended. We went in, feeling very uncomfortable about it and my kids went into the pool after I told them to (relluctantly). They swam for about an hour and I got them out and we made our way to the cashiers cabin where a man was now attending. I had noticed that for my kids (5yrs, 8yrs) I would be expecting to pay $6 each, totalling $12. I passed my card over to the man expecting him to say "twelve dollars please"...but NO he told me "20 BUX!! 6 per child and 8 FOR SPECTATORS!!!"...NEVER have I felt soooo ripped off!! I looked for the sign - showing this pricing - NONE. I was disgusted. I went home to do some research. 12 hot/thermal pools surveyed, 8 did not have a spectator's fee, one was $1, one was $2, one was $3 and one was $9 BUX!!! Although there is no justification for it was MARGINALLY a nicer site. I am NOT happy. $12 for an hour is ridicuously easy money in my mind and then 'to charge the person who brought them the money and didn't even use a service????' ...GUTTED!!!!!
Rating: 1/10
Vicky - Huntly
02th November 2012
Rating: 1/10
Vicky - Huntly
02th November 2012
273
I run a Holiday Programme for 40 children. I booked my group in for a swim and all day pass on the slides. I had When I made the booking a man on the phone said that he would turn on the slides as soon as we got there. I was planning on arriving at 9-9:30am. I then confirmed booking a week prior and was told that the slides would not be turned on when we arrived and that they would be turned on at 11am. Very annoyed as I had already told the kids we were going early and that they could spend the whole day on the slides if they wanted. We arrived around 10am, I had 7 staff members with me and the kids were happy swimming until the slides opened. There was also another programme there, and quite a few general public and NO LIFE GAURDS. One arrived 10mins later but seemed not interested and would go off to the toilets or not even be watching the pools. Amro the owner then came down to the pools, she started blowing her whistle at kids (in my group), screaming and yelling at them to move back to the shallow end when they were not struggling or have difficulties (I knew they were good swimmers as I know 3/4 of my group really well and I would not let them in the deep pool if I knew they weren't the best swimmers). She then started blowing her whistle and screamed at two of my staff as they had their feet on the edge of the little kids pool while watching the kids swim. She opened the slide at 11am like she said. She instructed the lifeguard who was "watching" 3 pools to watch the hydro slides with her which then meant that there was no one watching the 3 swimming pools. She asked that one of my staff members be at the top of the slide which I was fine with. She told the kids the rules and let them on. I have around 6 kids who did not want to go on the slides but they wanted to come watch, she yelled at one of my staff members and said that she was trying to get them on the slides for free... All they wanted to do was watch but she would not let them and said that they had to go down to the seated area where they could not see anything. Amro then realized that there was no one watching the three pools and instructed the lifeguard to go back to watching the 3 pools. She they got a pole and started poking kids when they reached the bottom of the slide and into the pool. She was also screaming at them saying they should not be on it because they could not swim (they could - majority of them take swimming lessons) She was being that harsh and yelling that much that she was making the kids cry and not want to go on the slide any more. A boy who was not in my group came down when he was not supposed to and almost hit one of my kids in the pool at the bottom. She started screaming at them and said "are you two stupid, do you not know the rules, i told you them" I tried to tell her that it was not the child in my groups fault but the other and she would not listen and kicked them both off the slides. She then asked two more of my staff to go to the top of the slides and tell the kids when to go down. (Under staffed and using my staff as if they were her own). My self and two other staff members where at the bottom of the slide and people could not get in the gate so she blows her whistle at one of them and says "open the gate" my staff member "ahhh how much are you paying me?" and then Amro says "god your lucky to be here". Amro also yelled and screamed at man and his son who had come down the slide together they ended up getting off as they were sick of it. Two more life guards then showed up (she said they were late, they should have been on time as both big groups would have booked and they would have known they would need the extra staff) They were all dressed different, some with jeans on (did not have lifeguard on there tops) My group were not having a good time so I went to the office to complain. We had only been there around an hour and a half. Amro left with a district nurse... very professional. Tried to have a civil discussion with the man in the office (I thin Amro's husband) he go very angry and seemed to think it was not there fault they were understaffed and also that Amro was not doing the things I said. So I told him we were leaving and that I wanted my money back. He then got very grumpy and said that they had used the pools and slides so I said that I wanted half back. He agreed and said that all kids needed to be on the bus and at the front gate before he would give it to me. Very pathetic... I then went and told the kids we were leaving to go to a different swimming pools and they were all soooooo excited. They should not be excited to leave somewhere that is supposed to be all about family and having a good time. While I was getting the kids on the bus Amro comes over and screams "are you that one that complained?" I said what as I was talking to one of the kids. She then says "Did you not go to school" she was very angry and all because what I had complained about was true. They did not have enough life guards, she was being horrible to the kids, screaming and shouting at people and using my staff as if they were her own. Some other things she said: "i've never had a complaint in the 17 years i've owned the place", "you just have a terrible group that's the problem", "we are not understaffed, no one has ever drowned here except these two maori kids, that was their own fault though they did not listen". She said this and more in front of my kids and I asked her more than once and she said she did not care. She said "you should you should respect your elders, I am probably the same age as your grandmother" she probably is and my reply was "exactly thats why you shouldn't be a lifeguard, how are you going to jump in and save some one" there's no way she could she pretty much blind and deaf. She then said my job was not stressful, me and my staff were watching more kids than hers were!!! I got half my money back which I was happy about but still think I should have got it all back after how we were treated. While I was getting my refund I asked how many lifeguards should be watching the 3 pools (the slides had closed, thought they were open all day) and she said 2 was the minimum, there was only 1 down there, I said to here there you go you only have 1 lifeguard on and she reckons that her being up in the office counts. How are you going to save someone when you are 10ms away up in an office? She said well my staff are on there lunch break (all at the same time, great management and safety) I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND TO ANYONE WANTING TO TAKE THEIR FAMILY/CHILDREN THERE!!! It is unsafe the owners a unstable and not right in the head I think. They can not handle any criticism and deny everything. They are soooooooo unprofessional and I am going to make sure everyone I know hears about our experience. They should sell the place because they are doing a terrible job. Place is in bad condition and dirty. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY DRIVING THERE AND PAYING TO GET IN. Amro is a a horrible, physco lady and should not be working with children.
Rating: 1/10
Hayley Broughton - New Zealand
17th October 2012
Rating: 1/10
Hayley Broughton - New Zealand
17th October 2012
272
We stayed October 9, 2012. A very lengthy drive and to be met by a grumpy old man who was cranky at the thought that we might get use of his pools for nothing for 2 days, despite us staying in a powered site at $21 a head...... His attitude is appalling. His wife? Amro is delightful and very helpful and seems to do all the work , but even she cannot make up for the grumpiness. The facilities are somewhat tired, although the pools are very warm and exceptionally clean. We were perched on what seemed like a mountain top and did not feel the path to the facilities was safe to walk on at night, cracked uneven path and low guide rails. Toilet nd shower facilities were clean. Insufficient space for vehicles to park ..... Was very tight getting in and out in our motor home. Only place in New Zealand I have felt the need to lock up for my safety. Interesting pub next door with classic old style meals. IF YOU NEED MOBILE reception or Internet access, forget it!
Rating: 2/10
Mary Morrissey - Australia
10th October 2012
Rating: 2/10
Mary Morrissey - Australia
10th October 2012
271
Awesome place, just got back from another great weekend here! Stayed in a motel which was very clean and had everything we needed. Staff were very friendly as usual. Pools were well maintained and kept clean at all times. Great place to visit, highly recomend!
Rating: 10/10
Shaun - North Shore - Auckland
26th August 2012
Rating: 10/10
Shaun - North Shore - Auckland
26th August 2012
270
Absolutely REVOLTING! When we arrived there had been an accident on the water slide, the person was bleeding all over the paths and during the whole time we were there, it wasn't cleaned up. Kids were running all through it. The hydroslide staff were smoking at the bottom of the hydroslide and hanging out with their family (not watching the kids all go down in groups of 10+ and hurting each other at the bottom) and there was so much hair and scummy stuff in the pools is was disgusting. The bathrooms smelt awful and the toilets were filthy. My daughter also became very sick with some sort of virus which she more than likely picked up from there. Such a shame, it used to be so nice! I have heard it is a bit nicer during the week but I won't be risking our health going back there.
Rating: 1/10
Amanda - Hamilton
20th August 2012
Rating: 1/10
Amanda - Hamilton
20th August 2012
269
Have just spent 2 nights in the flat with a group of friends. The flat was very basic and the beds old. I would probably describe it more as alarge dorm as it is veryopen living, but had everything we needed. The pools and slides were fantastic!!! Owners friendly and helpful. We had a great time in and out of the lovely warm pools and then just heading across the road for a rest when we needed it before heading back for more fun. If you are after a weekend away from everything and no cell reception with some good friends then this is for you.
Rating: 7/10
Kirsty - New Plymouth
19th August 2012
Rating: 7/10
Kirsty - New Plymouth
19th August 2012
268
I took a group of 45 secondary students to Waingaro as a great way to finish our music tour. We had a fantastic few hours at the pools, loved being able to soak in glorious hot water surrounded by great countryside. The staff couldn't have been more helpful - they happily ran the hydroslides and bbqs for us at times that suited us, and the facilities were clean and well-maintained. I wouldn't hesitate to bring a school group to these pools again in the future - and those slides are crazy fun!
Rating: 9/10
Nicola Haddock - Auckland
01th August 2012
Rating: 9/10
Nicola Haddock - Auckland
01th August 2012
267
What a complete shit hole. We would never return. Very run down establishment run by greedy undesirable people. What an embarrassment to the Waikato.
Rating: 1/10
Scott - Hamilton
29th July 2012
Rating: 1/10
Scott - Hamilton
29th July 2012
266
Pools are great! Large. Hot. Well set up for all ages and stages. Large covered areas to leave your bags if its wet or sun cover if its sunny. This is an historic establishment providing a great hot spring swimming experience!
Rating: -/10
rachael -
23th July 2012
Rating: -/10
rachael -
23th July 2012
265
I left extemely disapointed after a recent stay at Waingaro Hot springs. Cabins were poorly maintained and cleaned with a broken lightbulb still in the fitting allowing only one bulb to light the room. This helped disguise the build up of dirt and hair around the outer areas of the room, the oven had a broken power point which was a safety concern.
We went down to the pools the night we arrived to find people drinking alcohol in the pool and smoking around the pools after seeing a sign around the pool clearly stating no eating dring or smoking in or around the pool area.
We went down to the pools again in the morning when they opened at 9am and awaited for the arrival of the lifegaurd, a female walked past occassionally wearing a lifegaurd top and started blowing her whistle and yelling at people she was quite rude and unapproachable she would disappear again as she was preoccupied with other duties of cleaning toilets and changing rooms and serving people at the enterance.
The water in the pools was lovely, warm and clean, unfortunately the same could not be said for the surrounding facilities.
I went to use the toilets at the complex after seeing the cleaner leave about an hour prior.
Upon entering the toilets a stong urine smell was present, i then located a semi clean toilet and closed the door behind me to find cochroaches also enjoying the enviroment.
At about 11.30am two full time lifeguards arrived, one was present at the pool watching the patrons and the other lifeguard dressed in denim jeans was manning the hydroslide area.
This place has so much potential it just really needs a bit of hard work, a good clean and better standards put in place to make this the awsome place it used to be and that we all loved so much.
Rating: 4/10
kath - tokoroa
15th July 2012
Rating: 4/10
kath - tokoroa
15th July 2012
264
Disgusting, despicable, gruesome ew ew ew unsafe, unhygienic and quite frankly sickening. The owners are barmy and greedy, not at all concerned with the standard of service or experience that the customers have. Do NZ a favour and onsell to someone who will actually give a crap about the place so that they can make it the fun family friendly enjoyable experience that it ought to be. Come on Amros, give it up!!!
Rating: 1/10
Danielle -
12th July 2012
Rating: 1/10
Danielle -
12th July 2012
263
Currently reading reviews and trying to decide which hot pools to take the kids this holidays. Sounds like these pools are quite nice, with the only problems being hygene with facilities and the owners being pricks. Im a people person who likes clean things. No thanks :)
Rating: -/10
Doc - AKL NZ
01th July 2012
Rating: -/10
Doc - AKL NZ
01th July 2012
262
I recently stayed overnight with a couple of friends and we had the pool to ourselves a majority of the time. It was hard to find the motivation to get out of the pool because it was sooo relaxing. Owners were really lovely and the staff too.
Rating: 7/10
Paula - Waikato
25th June 2012
Rating: 7/10
Paula - Waikato
25th June 2012
261
Use to go as a child some 40 years ago so decided to visit. What an amazing change from the mud bottomed pools, now nice and clean, bright blue, stayed in clean cabin and found people very helpful and friendly to my needs. Will come again. :-)
Rating: -/10
Patsy & Ben - Hamiltion
04th June 2012
Rating: -/10
Patsy & Ben - Hamiltion
04th June 2012
260
We have read some of the negative comments people have made about this place in the past and feel most of it is unwarrented and unjustified! We have been to this location twice now, our last two day stay was this Queens Birthday Weekend, (2012) the pools were impecabley clean, well kept and well monitored by a lifeguard. The water was crystal clear and very soothing to the body especially the very hot pool! The couple who own the complex were very welcoming and we spent about 30 minutes chatting to Amro in the shop / office prior to going to our site. We were able to choose any site that we felt was the most suitable to us and Amro even offered to power up more private sites located higher up from the main ones near the pools if we wanted to go there. A very friendly camp with everything one would want for. We have a motorhome and two little dogs..... No problem so long as they were on a lead, poops picked up and kept out of the pool areas. Good to see a campground / pool facility that's doggy friendly albeit by prior arrangement. Music while you bathed, shop offering food and a great water slide for the more adventurous! We had Tui's, Fan Tails and several other lovely birds fluttering around our site, then there was the bird avairy as well.
A great place to go, worth the trip, very relaxing and laid back, the fees are very reasonable compared to other camps and pool complexes that we have visited.
We will be returning!
Dave and Nicole