He Puna Taimoana, meaning The Pool by the Sea, sits on the shores of New Brighton Beach, where the rhythms of the ocean meet the warmth of the water.
Gifted by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, the name reflects a deep connection to place and the relationship between people, land and sea.
Opened in 2020, He Puna Taimoana was created as a place of stillness and connection - a space where visitors and locals alike can pause, restore and reconnect beside the ocean.
Today, the facility includes five heated pools, a plunge pool, sauna, steam room and café, offering experiences that support relaxation, wellbeing and community connection.
New Brighton has long been associated with wellness and rejuvenation.
More than a century ago, the area was home to the renowned Howey's Hydro Baths, located just across the road from where He Puna Taimoana stands today. These seawater baths became an important part of New Brighton's identity, attracting visitors seeking rest, recovery and the restorative qualities of salt water.
He Puna Taimoana continues this legacy, offering a contemporary expression of a tradition deeply connected to the coastline and community.
Care for people and place is at the heart of He Puna Taimoana.
Our pools are heated using ground-sourced heat pump technology, an energy-efficient system that helps reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact compared with many traditional pool heating systems. By working with natural resources in a thoughtful way, we aim to create a place of wellbeing that treads lightly on the environment.
As a coastal facility, we recognise the responsibility we have to care for the natural environment that surrounds us, today and for future generations.
For centuries, people have sought out warm salt water for rest and renewal.
Many visitors enjoy the calming qualities of soaking in warm salt water and the sense of relaxation it can bring. Combined with the restorative atmosphere of the coast, He Puna Taimoana offers an opportunity to slow down, unwind and reconnect with both body and mind.
New Brighton has a long proud history with salt-water hot pools. The original “Howey’s Hydro Baths” were located just across the road from He Puna Taimoana. Users of the salt-water baths credited them with curing sciatica, rheumatism and other ailments.
We are located just a short 15 minute drive from the central city in Christchurch.
195 Marine Parade, New Brighton, Christchurch 8061, New Zealand.
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