‘Embarrassing tourist destination’: Why some Kiwi hot pools are closing while others thrive

Hot springs in New Zealand, once a beloved tourist attraction, are seeing mixed fortunes with some closing due to declining visitor numbers and escalating operational costs, while others continue to attract crowds. This shift highlights changing tourist preferences and the economic pressures faced by these natural attractions. As visitor numbers dwindle for some, it raises questions about the sustainability of this classic Kiwi pastime and its impact on local economies reliant on tourism revenue.