Old Gonville Baths

## Overview Old Gonville Baths is a private artesian spring located in the Gonville area of Whanganui, New Zealand (GPS: -39.939786, 175.046539). The name references the historic Gonville Baths, a once-popular bathing spot in the region that drew on natural water sources. Today, natural artesian water rises to the surface here under its own pressure — a hallmark of the artesian aquifers found throughout the Whanganui district, where underground water is confined beneath layers of sedimentary rock and naturally pressurized. The spring water is accessible via an outside tap on private property. Visitors have historically helped themselves to the water, though it should be noted that this is private land and courtesy toward the property owner is strongly encouraged. The water has been used locally as a drinking water source, but as with any untreated natural water, its quality cannot be guaranteed. ## Directions 1. Head to the Gonville suburb of Whanganui, on the North Island of New Zealand. 2. Navigate to the GPS coordinates **-39.939786, 175.046539** using a mapping app for the most accurate route. 3. Look for an outside tap on the property — this is where the artesian water is available. 4. Please be respectful of the private property and surrounding neighbors. *Note: This is a private property. There is no formal public access, and visitors should exercise discretion and respect the landowner's rights.* ## What to Expect The spring presents as a simple outside tap fed by a natural artesian source — water flows under its own geological pressure without the need for a pump. The Whanganui region sits atop layers of marine sedimentary rock, and artesian water in this area is typically cool and clear, having been naturally filtered through these geological formations. Because this is a private property rather than a public spring, there are no formal facilities, signage, or designated parking. Visitors should approach quietly and respectfully. There is no indication of seasonal variation in flow, as artesian sources in this region tend to be relatively consistent year-round. The water has historically been collected by locals for drinking purposes, though it has not been independently tested or certified as potable. Anyone collecting water here does so at their own discretion.