Hot pool spa complex on reserve looks like a runner

A long-mooted plan for a Ngai Tahu-owned hot pools complex in Queenstown's Lakeview site appears to be gathering steam.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council is proposing to lease part of a new recreation reserve to Ngai Tahu Tourism for a hot pool and day spa facility.

Council chief executive Mike Theelen said it was an opportunity for an ''anchor activity'' in the precinct that would appeal to the region's residents as well as visitors.

The 8057sq m site - part of the old Queenstown Lakeview campground - was now council-owned freehold land, but part of an agreed exchange of freehold and reserve land, he said.

It is nearly four years since Ngai Tahu Tourism unveiled its proposal for a hot pools complex on the site. That plan featured 12 large public hot pools, four smaller private pools, changing facilities, a health spa, a reception and retail building and a cafe-restaurant area.

Ngai Tahu Tourism chief executive Quinton Hall said if the council granted the company the lease, it would immediately move into the planning and design phase.

''We are excited about the opportunity to add to our extensive tourism portfolio in the Queenstown region with a high quality, premium hot pools and day spa experience.''

A hot pools complex has been a feature of the council's blueprint for the Lakeview precinct for several years.

Although a convention centre is now off the drawing board, those plans include a market square, housing and visitor accommodation, and public and commercial space.

The public have until December 22 to make submissions on the proposed lease.

The council will make a final decision once the submissions and a hearing panel recommendation have been considered.

The hearing will be held on February 19.