Rakaia Hotels

Top reasons to visit Rakaia

• Stunning Rakaia Gorge: Experience breathtaking vistas and excellent picnic spots amidst nature's beauty.
• Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like hiking, water rafting, and nature walks for an adrenaline rush.
• Tranquil Rakaia River: Relax by the serene river, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views.
• Informative Rakaia Museum: Discover the local heritage and culture through engaging exhibits and displays.
• Charming Accommodation: Choose from delightful motels and guesthouses catering to families and pet lovers.

Find great hotels near Rakaia

Discover a delightful range of accommodation options in Rakaia, Canterbury, perfect for families and pet lovers alike. From charming motels to welcoming guesthouses, you’ll find the ideal base for your adventure. Enjoy a golfing getaway or relax in comfort as you explore the beautiful surroundings. With competitive room rates and top-notch facilities, Rakaia hotels cater to every traveller's needs, ensuring a memorable stay.

• Hotel Ashburton: Embracing an adventurous spirit, Hotel Ashburton is a 3.5-star accommodation situated 25.7km from Rakaia. This LGBTQIA-friendly hotel is perfect for those seeking a thrilling getaway, with a strong focus on golf-themed experiences. Guests can engage in a variety of adventure sports, including skydiving, hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The hotel’s affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all, making it an ideal choice for adventurers looking to explore the great outdoors while enjoying comfortable lodging.
• Taylors Motel: Taylors Motel, also a 3.5-star establishment located 25.7km from Rakaia, caters specifically to families. This family-friendly motel offers a plethora of amenities designed to keep children entertained, including a shared playground, trampoline, and babysitting services. With additional features like window guards and baby bathtubs, Taylors Motel prioritises the safety and comfort of younger guests, making it an excellent option for families seeking a stress-free vacation experience.
• The Suites Ashburton: The Suites Ashburton, a 3.5-star motel situated 25.7km from Rakaia, is another fantastic choice for families. This property is equipped with essential amenities for children, such as a shared playground and a selection of toys for both babies and older children. The inclusion of a first aid kit further enhances the family-friendly environment, ensuring parents can relax while children enjoy their stay. The Suites Ashburton is committed to providing a welcoming atmosphere for families looking to create lasting memories together.

Where to stay near Rakaia

Visitors to Rakaia can indulge in a delightful blend of adventure and natural beauty. The breathtaking Rakaia Gorge offers stunning vistas and excellent picnic areas for relaxation. The friendly community adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for outdoor pursuits. Nearby, explore scenic landscapes perfect for hiking and recreation, ensuring a memorable experience whether you seek romance or thrill in the heart of Canterbury.

• Hatfield: Nestled approximately 6.4km from Rakaia, Hatfield is a charming suburb that attracts visitors year-round, with a notable peak between July and September. Renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, Hatfield offers easy access to hiking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes. Adventurers can explore local landmarks such as beautiful beaches, dramatic capes, and breathtaking canyon gorges. Whether you're seeking a thrilling hike or a leisurely stroll, Hatfield presents an inviting escape for nature enthusiasts.
• Bankside: Situated about 8.0km from Rakaia, Bankside is another delightful suburb with a steady flow of visitors, particularly during February and the winter months of July to August. Known for its scenic beauty and adventurous spirit, Bankside offers a variety of outdoor experiences, including access to ski fields for winter sports enthusiasts. Relaxation is also on the menu with local body treatment venues. Nearby attractions such as canyons and stunning gorge landscapes make Bankside a great destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying exhilarating activities.
• Chertsey: Located roughly 8.0km from Rakaia, Chertsey is a picturesque suburb that maintains a consistent influx of visitors, peaking in the winter months from July to September. This area is celebrated for its outdoor experiences and scenic landscapes. Chertsey's proximity to beautiful beaches and family-friendly esplanades makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can indulge in beach activities, soak up the sun, or enjoy leisurely walks along the esplanade, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Things to do near Rakaia

Rakaia offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for a vacation. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking along picturesque trails, indulging in body treatments, and embarking on nature walks. Exciting recreational options include thrilling water rafting experiences and memorable day trips to local sightseeing spots, making Rakaia a fantastic destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of Canterbury.

Shopping

In Rakaia, you can explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Ashburton Shopping Centre, where you'll find a variety of retail options, and the Westfield Riccarton Mall, offering a broader range of brands and boutiques.

Recreation

Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa offers a rejuvenating experience with its soothing thermal waters and serene ambience, perfect for relaxation. For outdoor enthusiasts, both Hororata Golf Club and Methven Golf Course provide excellent golfing opportunities amidst stunning landscapes, ideal for enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.

Adventure

The Rakaia Gorge Walkway, situated 40.2km from Rakaia, offers breathtaking scenery and a thrilling hiking experience amidst nature’s beauty. Meanwhile, the Mt Cheeseman Ski Area, located 48.3km away, provides exhilarating skiing opportunities for adventure enthusiasts, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps.

Nightlife

Rakaia offers a charming nightlife with a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a pint at the local Rakaia Hotel, or savour a meal at the Riverside Café, where you can unwind by the river. For a lively evening, check out the local events at the Rakaia Community Centre.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia

To save money on your trip to Rakaia, visit during the off-peak months of March, May, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or looking for last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia's filters to find budget-friendly options and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional discounts. Walking around Rakaia is a cost-effective way to explore this charming town.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rakaia are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Rakaia about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rakaia is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Rakaia is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Rakaia hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Rakaia

Rakaia, nestled in Canterbury, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery. Key attractions include the breathtaking Rakaia Gorge, the tranquil Rakaia River, and the informative Rakaia Museum. Visitors can also enjoy the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, take in the beauty of local urban parks, or explore private gardens. With a perfect blend of adventure and culture, Rakaia promises an unforgettable experience for travellers.

• Rakaia Gorge: Experience the breathtaking beauty of this stunning canyon, located 16.1km from Rakaia. With its dramatic scenery and adventurous outdoor activities, Rakaia Gorge is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural landscape.
• Ashburton Domain: Situated 27.4km from Rakaia, this urban park offers a delightful family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy spacious lawns, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor fun amidst a vibrant city vibe.
• Ashburton Aviation Museum: Located 24.1km from Rakaia, this museum showcases the rich aviation history of the region. Explore fascinating exhibits and aircraft, immersing yourself in the culture and heritage of aviation in New Zealand.

Best time to go to Rakaia

The best time to visit Rakaia can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rakaia falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Rakaia falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rakaia

If you're planning a visit to Rakaia, Canterbury, you can fly into two major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated 51.5km from Rakaia, with excellent hotel options nearby, such as the 4.5-star Sudima Christchurch Airport, located 483m from the terminal, and both Rydges Latimer Christchurch and Fable Christchurch, each 9.7km away. Alternatively, Timaru Airport (TIU) is 88.5km from Rakaia, offering nearby accommodations like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, 11.3km away, and Ashbury Park Motel, a 4-star option just 8.0km from the airport. Enjoy your trip.