Pool with a view: Queenstown's Onsen Hot Pools, New Zealand's most photogenic spa

Far upstream of the extremes of Wakatipu - out of earshot of the screams of the Shotover jet boat ride- there is an oasis of tranquillity.

The Onsen Hot Pools are a refreshing break in the midst of New Zealand's adventure hub. The spa is located just out of Queenstown, perched overlooking the river Shotover.

This is a Japanese hot tub spa, with a twist. Complete with wooden tubs, shoji paper walls and generous puddles of heated spring water, the spa owners have imported the best of Japanese traditions into the middle of the Otago bush. But the scenic surroundings of the luxury spa are not ignored.

By way of reminder, sliding panoramic windows reveal the most scenic of New Zealand landscapes. Mountainous peaks and bowing loops of river fan out below your tub. From this viewpoint the Onsen pools bring together the best of both worlds. Very zen.

The Onsen Hot Pools are a big hit on Instagram. Owing to their photogenic backdrop the tubs have already racked up millions of views around the web.

It is the kind of view that makes even the most self conscious visitor want to pose in swim togs.

The Onsen pools have also made a big splash with celebrity fans.

The Otago Daily Times reported Alanis Morissette as one of the pools' patrons.

The Canadian singer visited the spa for some much needed rest and recuperation ahead of an appearance at the Wakatipu Summer Concerts.

nature as healer. ✨ pic.twitter.com/8EPzVMBSFP

— Alanis Morissette (@Alanis) January 18, 2018

A pool with a view for two adults costs $95 and $119 after sunset (www.onsen.co.nz). However don't expect to jump right in. The hot pools are currently heavily booked and a visit must be planned well in advance.

While nothing does justice to seeing the view in person, in the meantime there is no shortage of photos from smug bathers online.