Athenree: Thermal Pools, Pā and Pioneer History

Athenree brings together two natural mineral pools, the history of Athenree Homestead and historical traces at Athenree Pā. Nearby is also Athenree Wetland, with a 20-minute loop walk. This combination appeals to travellers who want to include water, settlement history and a short walk through a wetland in their travel plans.

Athenree Homestead: Farm and Garden History

Athenree Homestead was built in 1879 by Irish settler pioneers Hugh and Adela Stewart. The farm was worked for 30 years, until they left in 1906. During the period from their arrival until their departure, Adela Stewart transformed the grounds: a bare area became extensive exotic orchards, vegetable gardens that supplied the community, and flower gardens considered exemplary. This development connects the Stewarts’ history with the land’s use and design at the time.

A pictorial history of the house is on display for visitors in the entrance area. The presentation may change. The pictorial history offers its own perspective on the house, complementing the story of the farm and gardens.

Two Mineral Pools with Different Rules

Athenree Hot Springs has two natural mineral pools. The larger pool has a temperature of 33–35 °C, an average depth of 1.3 metres and a shallow area for toddlers. The smaller relaxation pool for adults is 38.5–40 °C; children are not permitted there. Travellers with children can take these differences into account when planning, without treating the two pools as the same.

The water supply is also described in specific terms: a 250-metre-deep underground aquifer feeds the pools. Mineral water is continuously pumped through them, and the pool water is renewed every 3–4 hours. The temperature differences and the source of the water can therefore be understood as two distinct aspects of the bathing experience.

Pā and Settlement History

Athenree Pā is classified as a Category 2 Historic Place. It is privately owned and not open to the public. Nevertheless, the site is notable in the history of the district: it is considered the oldest pā in the Athenree district and the site there with the most frequent occupation. Cultural remains about 500 years old have been found at the pā; after its fortifications were built, it was occupied at least three times.

Wetland, Trails and Getting Around

Near Athenree, Athenree Wetland is located on Steele Road between Athenree and Waihi Beach, beside the Waiau River. The Athenree Wetland Loop is a 20-minute circuit with access from Emmerton-Steele Road between Waihi Beach and Athenree. Check trail conditions before you travel. Dogs, camping and lighting fires are not permitted in the wetland’s Wildlife Refuge Reserve.

In the Waihi Beach–Athenree Estuary area, horses may be led or ridden on a signed circuit from the second Thursday in February to the third Wednesday in December. The route runs from Albacore Avenue via Pio Road and Athenree Estuary to the existing walking and cycling path at Island View. Horses are not permitted in the dunes. Confirm the current rules before riding.

The new Athenree Jetty is on Athenree Esplanade behind 12 Roretana Drive. It replaces the former, outdated jetty; the project is complete. If you are planning to visit the jetty, check for current notices, as infrastructure status can change.

Bicycles from Berg can be hired and kayaks used at Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park. Ask at reception; availability depends on arrangements made there.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Papamoa, Waihi Beach, Lower Kaimai, Pyes Pa, Tahawai, Te Puke, Katikati, Paengaroa.

Go to the main travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.