You are ready to improve your life as well as your house with a spa pool, but you are not sure where to begin your search? You might have questions, like, "how can I buy a spa pool?" or "how much can it cost?”
We understand, which is why Hot Spring Spas New Zealand has created this comprehensive Spa Pool Buyer's Guide with you in mind – an easy, printable guide and a simple video that walks you through each step of shopping for a spa pool, to answer these inquiries and much more, so you can buy with confidence.
What spa pool should I buy?
The right spa pool for you comes down to three things: how you want to use it, how many people will soak at once, and the space you have available. Match those to a collection and you narrow the shortlist quickly.
From a romantic two-seater for your apartment balcony, to a sprawling seven-seater built for weekend fun. From an economical yet capable base model to an ultra-luxurious machine featuring the latest and greatest spa pool tech. Spas come in a range of types and sizes, and understanding your options is key to choosing the right machine for your needs, wants and situation.
Choosing the right type of spa pool
A spa pool shouldn’t be viewed as a cost, but an investment that can pay itself back over time – as long as you choose the right machine, because not all spa pools are built the same.
When you buy from a proven brand like Hot Spring, you’ll enjoy access to New Zealand’s most energy efficient, longest-lasting, highest quality machines. We offer dozens of spas across four distinct collections, each of which caters to a slightly different type of buyer:
- The luxurious Highlife: Nothing less than the best.
- The premium Limelight: High-end spas designed to be shared.
- The value-packed Hot Spot: Hot Spring quality, unmatched value.
- The entry-level Freeflow: Backyard luxury meets accessibility.
Choosing the ideal spa pool size
Spa pools come in a wide variety of sizes. Hot Spring spas range from the two-person Mini, with a footprint of 2.2m², to the seven-person Prism, with a 6.5m² footprint.
Your ideal spa size will depend on a few different factors:
- The available space in your preferred spot
- Your budget (larger spas typically demand a larger investment)
- How you plan to use your machine (e.g. for socialising, relaxation, etc.)
- The maximum number of people who will want to soak at any one time
Where to install it (indoor vs outdoor)
A key limitation on your ideal spa size and type is where you plan to put it. Find your ideal spot, then measure how much room is available, remembering to leave extra space for access and maintenance.
While Hot Spring spa pools are typically installed outside, an indoor spa is also an option, although it’s important that the space is well ventilated.
Key takeaways
- The right spa pool matches your soak style, group size, and available space.
- Hot Spring offers four collections, from the entry-level Freeflow through to the luxury Highlife.
- Leave extra room around the spa for access and maintenance, and ensure the ventilation is right for indoor installs.
What does a spa pool cost to buy and run?
A spa pool has two costs: the upfront investment and the ongoing running costs. Hot Spring spas start from around $6,000 and run for less than $1 a day, but cheaper spas often cost more over their life through power, upkeep and early replacement.
As mentioned at the top, a spa pool isn’t a cost, but a long-term investment that can pay itself back handsomely if you choose the right machine.
The sticker price of a spa pool only ever tells part of the story. You also need to consider delivery, installation and setup costs, and perhaps more importantly, the ongoing running costs and the longevity of the machine. All these factors can turn an apparent spa pool bargain into a rather pricey endeavour, as cheap and cheerful machines inevitably cost more to run and don’t last as long as higher quality options.
How much should I spend?
When you frame a spa pool as an investment, not a cost, you begin to see the returns you can enjoy by choosing a quality machine. The more comfortable, luxurious and low maintenance your spa, the more you’ll use it, and the greater its benefits on your health, wellness, lifestyle, relationships, and even property value.
Choosing a premium option now – one that is more energy efficient, lasts longer, and offers a soaking experience that will encourage you to use it more – can save you real money in the long run versus a cheap equivalent.
Don’t have cash on hand? Hot Spring’s flexible finance options can help you invest in a higher quality option.
How much does it cost to run?
When you choose a spa pool from Hot Spring – New Zealand’s most energy efficient spa brand – you can power your machine for less than $1 a day.
How? The secret is in the Hot Spring Energy Smart™ system, which combines a range of efficient tech (insulation, covers, circulation pumps, hot air induction jets) to create a spa that does far more with far less.
Factoring in maintenance & upkeep
Smart spa tech also means less work and more play. Take FreshWater IQ, the world’s first fully integrated and automated spa water testing system, which can reduce spa pool maintenance by up to 90%. It works in partnership with the FreshWater Salt System, which minimises chemical use while making your water last up to 4x longer.
Lifespan of different spa pool models
Hot Spring spa pools are designed to last years, even decades. We’re so confident in the longevity of our machines that we guarantee the supply of spare parts for 20 years, and will even offer equivalent parts after that.
Cheap and cheerful spa pools, meanwhile, don’t tend to last long – you may need to replace a budget machine two or three times over the lifespan of a single Hot Spring spa, which ultimately works out far more expensive.
Resale value & trade-in options
Consider trade-in value as part of your purchase. A lot of Hot Spring customers don’t keep their machines for 20 years – they upgrade. The quality and longevity of Hot Spring spas means they hold their resale value really well, which helps to make your next purchase far cheaper.
Key takeaways
- A Hot Spring spa pool runs on less than $1 a day thanks to the Energy Smart system.
- FreshWater IQ and the Salt System can cut maintenance by up to 90% and extend water life fourfold.
- Spare parts are guaranteed for 20 years, so a Hot Spring holds its resale value for the long haul.
How do I install a spa pool?
Installing a spa pool takes three things: a level, structurally sound base, safe delivery access, and the right power connection. Most Hot Spring installs are completed in a day once the site is ready.
It’s important to consider where and how you might install your spa pool before you start shopping.
- Location preparation: The surface you place your spa on needs to be strong enough to support the weight of a spa full of water and people. At Hot Spring we offer a free on-site consultation to help you identify the ideal spot. We’ve tackled every type of installation challenge, so can offer expert guidance on your specific situation.
- Delivery challenges: Consider the accessibility of your backyard. If you don’t have the room to get the spa pool through or around your house, you may need to crane it in. Once again, our expert team is here to work out the best way to deliver and install your new spa, and can take care of the entire process.
Do I need council consent for a spa pool in New Zealand?
Most spa pools do not need consent for the spa itself, but every residential spa needs a compliant safety barrier under Clause F9 of the Building Code, and any barrier changes need building consent. A lockable, child-resistant cover can meet the barrier requirement for small heated pools of 5 square metres or less.
In New Zealand, all pools capable of holding water 400mm or deeper must have a means of restricting unsupervised child access. For spa pools, that usually means a lockable cover that meets the small heated pool exemption, provided the water surface area is under 5 square metres. Larger spas need a compliant fence around the pool area instead.
Councils are required to inspect residential pool barriers every three years, so a compliant install from day one saves you a notice to fix later. If you are adding decking, changing a gate, or altering an existing barrier, engage your local council early to confirm whether building consent applies.
A licensed electrician is also required to wire in most spa pools, and their work must be certified. Your local Hot Spring dealer can help you plan for compliance as part of your delivery and installation.
Key takeaways
- Under Clause F9, every residential spa needs a compliant barrier, most often a lockable cover.
- Spas with a water surface of 5 square metres or less can qualify for the cover exemption.
- Councils inspect residential pool barriers every three years, so get compliance right on day one.
What features should I look for in a spa pool?
The features that matter most are the ones that shape your day-to-day experience: quality insulation for lower running costs, automated water care for easy upkeep, and jets that actually deliver on hydrotherapy. Everything else is nice to have.
The features you choose are what make a spa pool yours – they reflect your needs, wants and tastes, and can elevate the soaking experience for everyone who enters. When shopping for your spa, keep an eye out for:
- Energy efficiency: Look for high quality insulation and other energy-efficient tech. At Hot Spring our machines are proven to be New Zealand's most energy efficient, costing as little as $1 a day to run.
- Water care & maintenance: Look for technology that minimises water care and maintenance (like FreshWater IQ), and that lowers chemical use while making your water last longer (like the FreshWater Salt System).
- Hydrotherapy jets: A Hot Spring spa delivers 5x the jet pressure, and that pressure can be customised seat-by-seat. We also offer the world's first (and only) moving spa jet: the Moto-Massage DX.
- Comfort & ergonomics: Not all spa pools are made the same – literally. Unique manufacturing methods mean that Hot Spring spas don’t face the design limitations that other brands do. The result: ultimate ergonomics and the deepest, widest seats on the market.
- Insulation for lower bills: Better insulation = less heating = lower power bills. Hot Spring edge-to-edge insulation completely fills the spa pool cabinet, ensuring there are no thermal gaps where heat can escape.
What spa pool technologies should I compare?
When shopping for a spa you will typically face four technology decisions: power (plug-and-play vs hardwired), water care (salt, chlorine or ozone), controls (basic vs smart), and filtration (bypass vs no-bypass). The right choice depends on your budget, spa size and how hands-off you want ownership to be.
When you shop for your spa pool you’ll often be presented with a choice of technologies or options. Here’s a run down of common decisions you’ll be presented with.
Plug-and-play vs. hardwired spas
Most spa pools, particularly large and luxurious models, draw more electricity than a standard outlet can offer, so need to be hardwired in by an electrician. Plug-N-Play technology, meanwhile, means a spa can be plugged into a standard outlet. This option restricts power and performance, so is typically found in more basic models.
Smart controls & connectivity features
A range of control systems are available on modern spa pools, from basic, built-in knobs and switches, to in-spa digital displays, to smartphone apps that let you to prep your spa from the couch or car. Choose whichever system best suits your needs.
Hot air induction jets vs. cold induction jets
The water that comes out of most spa pool jets will be noticeably colder than the water in the spa. But not in a Hot Spring. Our hot air induction jets recycle the internal heat of the spa through the jet water, creating a toasty and luxurious soaking experience.
What after-sales support should I expect?
Look for a brand with a local dealer network, guaranteed long-term parts supply, and in-house technicians for servicing. Making the purchase is only the start of your spa pool journey.
Making the purchase is only the start of your spa pool journey. The level of after-sales support you receive will be critical to ensuring you gain maximum value from your investment.
Customer service & dealer support
Look for spa pool brands and dealers who have a local presence: who know your area, and who will be there for support when you need them. Check reviews to understand the level of service and support you can expect.
Availability of parts & servicing
Choose a spa brand with a proven history of producing reliable, long-lasting machines. As New Zealand’s oldest and most trusted spa pool brand, at Hot Spring we’ve been proving our quality since 1980.
With a nationwide network of dozens of dealers, there’ll be a store near you. And our 20-year spare parts guarantee means we can service your spa long into the future.
How do I compare spa pool warranties?
A good warranty covers multiple parts of the spa for multiple years, and is honoured by trained in-house technicians rather than third-party contractors.
The longer your spa pool lasts, the more value you’ll get out of your investment. Spa pool warranties offer a sense of how confident a manufacturer is in the quality of their product, so keep the following in mind:
- Be wary of brands that offer warranties longer than the history of their company, as there’s no way to verify if their machines will last that long.
- Different warranties will apply to different parts of the spa. A “10-year warranty” may only apply to the frame – the strongest and most protected part.
- If the warranty only covers issues “due to faulty workmanship or materials”, it will exclude a range of common situations.
- Avoid warranties that mention using third-party contractors for repairs. At Hot Spring, we use highly trained spa technicians for all warranty claims.
Frequently asked questions on buying a spa pool
What is the difference between salt water, chlorine and ozone spa water care?
There are three main ways to sanitise spa water. Chemical systems add chlorine or bromine to the water manually. Salt water systems add salt, which clever technology organically converts into chlorine, using less chemicals overall and producing fresher, longer-lasting water. Ozone systems draw sanitising O3 gas from the ambient air and feed it through the water, killing contaminants on contact and reducing the chemical load further.
What is bypass vs no-bypass filtration?
Most spa filtration systems use the same pump as the jets, so the filters are bypassed when the spa is in use. The unique no-bypass filtration systems found in Hot Spring spas ensure 100% of your water is filtered 100% of the time, even when the jets are on. Your spa water actually gets cleaner as you soak.
Should I test soak a spa before I buy?
Yes. A test soak is the only way to feel the jet pressure, hear the noise level, and check the seating comfort against your own body. Reputable dealers keep filled demonstration models on the showroom floor, so book a session, bring your togs, and try a few options before you commit.
What kind of base do I need for a spa pool?
A spa pool needs a level, structurally sound base that can support the full weight of the spa, water and people, which can exceed 2,000 kilograms. A 100mm reinforced concrete pad, an engineer-certified deck, or compacted pavers all work. A Hot Spring dealer confirms the exact spec for your model during the free on-site consultation.
When is the best time of year to buy a spa pool?
Autumn and early winter often bring the strongest deals as retailers clear stock before the peak season. Buying off-peak also gives you shorter contractor lead times, and it means your spa is installed and ready by the first cold snap.
Why does the spa pool brand matter?
Brand matters because a spa pool is a 10 to 20 year investment. The best brands sell reliable products, back them with deep support, and prove their quality over decades rather than months.
A great way to focus your spa search is to find your preferred brand then select a model.
When researching brands, focus on quality and longevity – the most successful brands sell reliable products, offer deep support, and constantly innovate. They are transparent and accountable, and prove their quality over time.
Having sold over 1.8 million spa pools since 1980, a Hot Spring spa ticks every box. Shop our range today.
