1 / 2Smallgusta & Hot Pools
📍 Oropi, Bay of Plenty
Smallgusta combines a challenging 9-hole (or 18-hole) miniature golf course with natural mineral hot pools and a licensed café, 15–20 minutes from Tauranga. Private pool sessions, an open-roof spa experience, and on-site accommodation make it a flexible half-day or full-day destination.
A very tricky golf course but a lot of fun
🏆 Family Action Verdict
The mineral pools are the main draw for families with older children — the thermal water is genuinely skin-soft, and a private pool session in the rain with an open roof is described as a memorable experience. The mini golf course is built for players who enjoy a real challenge rather than a novelty round, rewarding patience and accuracy. The combination of soak and sport makes a half-day here feel well spent.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →586 Google reviews
Gayle Dean
3 months ago
“A very tricky golf course but a lot of fun”
Brooke Newman
a year ago
“Absolutely love coming to this place. Such a nice reset from the busy pace. Child friendly. Staff are amazing, the hot pool is mineral and gentle on sensitive skin. Bonus area for delicious food and a place for young ones to run. Our favourite hot pool!! Next on list trying out the mini golf.”
Karen DG
2 years ago
“Just perfect! We had booked a private pool for 1/2 hr which was exactly enough time to sit and enjoy the lovely warm water. The pool was spotlessly clean with its own shower and toilet. We decided to stay for an early lunch and shared a kiwi burger which was delicious. The coffee was strong and hot. The staff were friendly and welcoming. We would definitely recommend”
Sammo
3 years ago
“It's a hidden gem. Excellent facilities. Service was great from the moment we walked in. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the private spa. Even more so with the open roof as it was raining. The hot spring pool is very well maintained and it was very quiet for a Saturday lunch soak. Overall would recommend to anyone looking for a hot spring spa and soak.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Smallgusta in Oropi pairs authentic miniature golf — a course described as genuinely challenging, with off-course rough and real consequences for wayward putts — with natural mineral hot pools gentle on sensitive skin. Private pool sessions include a dedicated shower and toilet. The licensed café serves food including a kiwi burger and strong coffee. An 18-hole round and a main pool add-on are both available. The course suits ages 8 and up; under-5s are not recommended. Outside food and beverages are not permitted on site as the café is licensed.
