The village that turns into an alpine winter wonderland with its snow capped mountain views, thermal hot spring pools and forest walks has something more to offer for the month of July – the Alpine Winter Festival.

Some might hear of the pop-up ice skating rink or the light activation show and think it’s something for the kids, which it is, but it also makes for the ideal couple's getaway.

Only an hour-and-a-half drive away from Christchurch, here’s how to spend a night away with your loved one in Hanmer Springs during July.

READ MORE: * What to do on a long weekend in and around Christchurch * Hanmer Springs to be transformed into a 'winter wonderland' * 100 epic ways to enjoy winter in New Zealand

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

First stop, the hot pools. Most people that have been to the alpine village have soaked in the pools but during the festival, especially at night, it’s a whole new experience.

After you’ve warmed up in the pools, no need to get changed and head out of the pools, instead enjoy lunch at the Tea Kiosk. For those that have worked up an appetite while relaxing or having a quick burst down the Conical Thrill slide, enjoy a beef burger or some vegetarian nachos or the ideal hot meal after a swim - hot chips.

Feeling satisfied and ready to warm up again, the next stop is the private pools.

With the steaming-hot pool and your own personal private view it’s a time to really relax and unwind away from the crowds for 30 minutes of pure bliss with your other half.

Get your skates on for icy fun at the Hanmer Springs pop-up ice rink. With the tunes cranking it’s hard not to get pumped up and glide your way across the rink under the festoon and disco lights. Or, if you’re a first-time skater (like I was) attempt to get your way around the rink in a ‘bambi on ice’ type fashion offering plenty of entertainment for walkers-by as you hit the ice.

Surrounded by those same stunning views of the Southern Alps and nestled amongst beautiful gardens and tall canopies, the Hanmer Springs Hotel is a relaxing retreat. It is located near shops, attractions and restaurants, with everything you need only a short stroll away.

Alpine Winter Festival – Light Activation

When the sun goes down it’s time to head back to the hot pools to experience the pools as you’ve never seen them before - with a light show featuring a 'Flower Zone' and 'Underwater Zone'. The lighting features turn your evening soak into a magical experience.

The on-site restaurant at the Hanmer Springs Hotel has an old-world charm and is a Hanmer Springs piece of history. Indulge in a taste of Italian and Mediterranean combined with local influence. Before you are seated for dinner, cosy up with a drink cosy up beside the roaring fire.Sundays are pizza and pasta night.

Christmas Lights & Winter Wonderland

Time to walk off that dinner with an evening stroll around the township to gaze at the wonderland with the street lit up by local businesses and residents.

Enjoy a good coffee and choose from a selection of breakfast treats at Isobel’s Restaurant before check-out.

A quick walk up the iconic Conical Hill Walk is always a good way to burn off breakfast before you head home. At the top you will see it is worth it with stunning panoramic views of the village and surrounding Hanmer Basin.

The Alpine Winter Festival runs until the end of July. A range of events and activities are scheduled, including a film festival, carnivals, movies and more.

The writer was a guest of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa and Visit Hurunui.