Sapphire Springs Holiday Park & Mineral Pools — Hotel in North Island

I'm almost loathe to leave a review as I'd love this hidden gem to remain exactly that - hidden! If you are looking for an idyllic, peaceful spot to camp or just for a day trip, you've found it. 20 mins north of Tauranga or South of Waihi, sapphire springs has something for everyone.

Beautiful, warm pools for all ages (including 2 new hot tubs). Theres a water slide and diving block that kept our 9 year old amused for days, a warmer soaking pool and a warmer toddler pool. Covered Bbq area ($2 coin operated). Well maintained grounds (no prickles!!!) and basic changing rooms / toilets with an outdoor rinse shower (cold). There's also a kids play area.

The camp grounds are spacious with powered and un-powered sites. The trampoline and mini golf were a hit with the kids. Some basic essentials are available to buy at reception, or theres a supermarket 10 minutes up the road in Katikati. Bring mozzie repellant against the sand flies.

Showers are $2 coin operated for 6 mins.

YOU WILL NEED TO BRING ALL YOUR OWN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. There are no communal pots, pans, cups, cutlery etc. Not even a cloth to wipe down benches. This is where the rating went to 4* instead of 5. There are cooking hobs, zip hot water, lots of fridge space but no cupboards. There's also a free bbq for campers.

The whole area is surrounded with native bush walks and a beautiful river.

On the whole it is a gorgeous place to either relax or have adventures. Great for kids though toddlers would need to be closely supervised due to the camp backing onto the river.

Staff were happy and helpful.

If there was any room for improvement, it would be having at least some kitchen equipment, and not having to pay extra to swim after check out on your last day if you have stayed...

This is a very well-organised and well maintained holiday park that has everything you could possibly want or need. There are a range of different sites, powered and unpowered, enjoying a peaceful rural/bush view.

We got a spot in the lower powered site area right next to the meandering river and a fab wee swimming hole underneath some beautifully shady trees. The river water is clear, clean and cools you off in the heat of a summer’s day.

The ablutions and facilities are clean and highly functional. The showers are $2, which is more expensive than most, but they have excellent pressure and temperature. You get ten minutes before the water reverts to cold. The kitchens are super clean and organised, and the cooking facilities looked near new. If you’re doing your dishes, don’t forget your tea towel. Everything else is provided. There are three washing machines and two dryers. A wash is $4, and everything dried lickety-split in the hot BOP sun!

The best part of this camp is the access to the tepid pools and hot tubs. There is a children’s play area, a BBQ shelter, and three different swimming pools to have a dip in. Access to these pools is included in your camp fee, which is $22 per adult per night for a powered site; $18 for a non powered site. NZMCA members get $2 discount per person per night. Excellent value, I reckon.

Very much enjoyed our stay here. It felt relaxed but also very organised. We will...

We had a fantastic stay at Sapphire Springs over the course of 3 nights as 2 adults and three kids. We stayed in the Bungalow, which is lovely. It is situated location close by to the mini golf, trampoline, and a short walk to the pools and nature walk. The room had everything we needed, although we only wish they could offer complimentary wifi even if it's exclusive to that room. Only for times when kids get up super early and we could not get any reception.

The holiday park is situated amongst amazing natural scenery. The river that runs through the park is beautiful, and we thoroughly enjoyed throwing stones into the river and watching sticks flow down the small rapids. They offer a few walks. However, we only did the Puriri walk as it's recommended for younger kids. They really enjoyed seeing the Kauri and Puriri trees along with the Rimu further down the track. It was wonderful watching the kids being one with nature.

The pools themselves are a tepid warm temperature and a good depth for kids to be able to enjoy themselves. The two hottubs were in demand due to the cold winds passing through. Only wish the changing facilities were a tad closer to save running in the cold. But it's all part of the adventure.

Overall, I would highly recommend coming here. Also the managers are so friendly and provide a warm overall experience. We will hopefully be...