About Us

Hanmer Springs Forest Camp was established in the early 1950’s as a New Zealand Forest Service single men’s camp.

In 1977 when the NZ Forest Service ceased operation on the site, a Trust was formed from local residents and the Rotary Club of Papanui: for a peppercorn rental they would manage the site and develop the buildings for recreational, educational and environmental purposes.

The Ensor lodge (built in 2002) has Family cabins and bunk rooms. Most cabins are wheelchair accessible and have two wheelchair accessible showers and toilets.

The Abilities Lodge (built in 1986, and refurbished in 2006) and two new self contained units are purposely built for people with disabilities, and are unique for the South Island.

(Special rate for disabled people apply)

Radiating from the sleeping accommodation are four kitchen/dining rooms.

Each area seats different numbers, to accommodate different size groups.

The kitchens are fully equipped with pots, pans, cooking utensils, ovens, fridges and freezers. A BBQ can be hired on request.

The large ablution blocks, drying room and laundry are situated in the centre of the camp.

Large grassed areas provide plenty of room for children and adults to let of steam.

The big adventure playground has a petanque area and basket ball hoop as well.