The first recorded discovery of Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve was made in 1859 by farm manager from Culverden (William Jones).  Another 20 years before commercialism took over and an iron bathing shed was built and a manager appointed.  Early development was hindered by accessibility.  Such disadvantages as the first Ferry Bridge blowing down and not being replaced for 15 - 20 years did not help.

Segregated nude bathing was the order of the day in the early years and hoisting the appropriate clothing (skirt or trousers) up a pole to indicate the gender of the moment controlled this.  Later of course, seperate pools were introduced and finally mixed bathing - clothed of course!  The change to mixed bathing has not been without its lighter moments as not all patrons were aware of the change.  Well told is the story of the gentleman who enthusiastically disrobed and charged out of the changing rooms stark naked to find things not quite as he expected!

Use of the pools has changed over the years and in the early period were linked closely to the activities and fortunes of Queen Mary Hospital.

Recreational bathing has always played a part but other activities such as the recuperation of soldiers returning from war, relief for the arthritic and disabled, have played a major part of its history.