One-hour group sessions, private and corporate bookings and even opportunities for a local surf club with regular access for residents are also features.
YourWave surfers remain in one spot.
Photo / YourWave Hanmer Springs
Sarah Wiblin, general manager of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, said the attraction is expected to open in about a month, after testing.
“We are super excited to officially have water and be in the testing phase and yeah, we’re three or four weeks away from officially being open,” Wiblin said.
Wiblin said the testing phase was a chance to sense how the attraction can be enjoyed by surfers of different ages and stages – with a minimum age requirement of 8.
“The testing process is about us understanding for an 8-year-old who’s never surfed before, when they jump on a board, how long they’re going to be able to stay on the board the first time,” she said.
“Versus the flip side for an adult who might be a beginner and the experience they have, right through to an adult who might have surfed their entire life and loves surfing.
“It’s basically putting local groups of Hanmer school children, children from the local college and also adults through our processes to make sure that our team and all our systems are working.”
There are no maximum or minimum weight restrictions for the ride, Wiblin said.
Wiblin said the YourWave was a “separate product” to the pools, meaning people can add the experience on to a day out, or simply come for the surf experience.
“For us it’s about bringing something new and interesting,” she said.
“It’s about attracting a different market and a different group of people to Hanmer to try something new or experience a new attraction.
“But also for our local kids as well, it’s going to be a great chance to teach them surfing.
“And the fact that the water’s 28C and we’ll be surfing year-round and be able to guarantee a wave every day of the week’s pretty cool as well.”
It comes months after the popular thermal resort opened New Zealand’s first “snow room” as part of a new wellness experience.
“Elemental by Hanmer Springs” combines a sauna, steam room, snow room and private geothermal pools experience.
The adults-only offering has been designed to provide something for visitors seeking an immersive alpine escape.