Solar power making a big splash in Methven

Thanks to a farm of solar panels heating fresh water straight off the mountains, the Canterbury high country town of Methven has a new thermal resort which is bound to a make a big splash with local and international travellers.

The new Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa resort has opened in Methven with backing from the government’s provincial growth fund.

Regional Economic Development and Tourism Minister Stuart Nash officially opened the resort. He says it is a vote of confidence in the future of tourism and the regional economy around Methven and Mount Hutt.

“The Ōpuke resort is an example of innovative thinking and partnerships. It will allow Methven to become a year-round tourist destination, building on its existing reputation as a winter skiing and adventure resort,” Nash says.

“It is a difficult balance between a luxury tourism offering and one that also makes room for budget-conscious local travellers. The Ōpuke resort has facilities aimed at families and kids, as well as private facilities and a wellness and therapy centre.

“The government provided a $7.5 million loan tailored specifically to the nature of the project, with the balance funded by the private sector and supported by local councils and the Canterbury Mayoral Forum,” he says.

Nash says domestic tourism spending in Canterbury was worth $1.44 billion in the year to September 2021, an increase of 25% on the previous year, and up 21% on pre-COVID spending in the year to September 2019.