Get the girls together

Hanmer Springs is renowned as an ideal place for a getaway or weekend with friends, lovers, or families.

What’s often forgotten is what’s on offer at this Hurunui spa-spot for a girly getaway. Metropol has this list of suggestions for for a great girls weekend lineup. All you need to do is decide who you’ll invite, which CDs or playlist you will take to party along to, and where you will stay. A spa pool is a must.

We suggest starting your road trip early Friday afternoon to make the most of your first night. Keep in mind whenever you arrive, it will be happy hour somewhere. Consider a pit-stop along the way, in Amberley, a quaint town known to provide some wonderful, preloved (op shop) finds, and fabulous bakery goodies.

Upon arriving in Hanmer, settle into your accommodation and let the good times flow. Spend the night in with a rom-com, bottle of wine, and antipasto platters, or head out to one of the local restaurants to sample their culinary expertise. Start your next morning slowly, embracing a peaceful sleep-in before heading to town for a spot of retail therapy, and the Saturday market, held from 9am to 2pm. Stallholders offer an abundance of homewares and locally produced goods.
Soak the afternoon away in a spa or hot pool, and indulge in one of the many massage or pamper packages available in Hanmer. Check out more of the local cuisine at dinner time, then sleep peacefully (or party on).

Start Sunday with a brisk walk to the top of Conical Hill, before brunch at one of the many cafés about town. Head off with the girls for a spot of retail therapy, or, for the more adventurous types, experience the thrill of a bungy jump or jet boat ride, creating classic memories as you head home.