Find hotels in Rakaia from £42

Top reasons to visit Rakaia

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Rakaia is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like skiing, fishing, and kayaking amidst stunning landscapes.
• Breathtaking Rakaia Gorge: Explore the magnificent Rakaia Gorge, renowned for its dramatic views and perfect for photography.
• Charming Local Culture: Visit the Rolleston shops for a glimpse of local life and warm interactions with friendly residents.
• Relaxing Picnic Areas: Enjoy leisurely afternoons in picturesque picnic spots surrounded by nature.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from family-friendly motels to charming guesthouses, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Rakaia

Rakaia offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, perfect for every type of traveller. From family-friendly motels to charming guesthouses, you’ll find a range of welcoming places to stay. Many hotels in Rakaia are pet-friendly and embrace an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA guests, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Discover the best Rakaia hotels that cater to your needs while exploring the beautiful Canterbury region.

• Hotel Ashburton: Embrace adventure at Hotel Ashburton, a 3.5-star hotel located 9.9km from Rakaia. This property is perfect for those seeking an exhilarating vacation experience, particularly for LGBTQIA travellers. Enthusiasts can indulge in golf-themed activities right on-site and explore a variety of adventure sports nearby, including snowboarding, skydiving, and mountain biking. With its commitment to adventure and inclusivity, Hotel Ashburton is the ideal base for thrill-seekers looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Canterbury.
• The Suites Ashburton: Ideal for families, The Suites Ashburton offers a welcoming 3.5-star motel experience situated 9.9km from Rakaia. This property prioritises family-friendly amenities, featuring a shared playground and a selection of toys for children of all ages. With a focus on creating a comfortable atmosphere for families, The Suites Ashburton provides essential services such as a first aid kit to ensure peace of mind during your stay. Parents can relax knowing their little ones are entertained and safe.
• Bella Vista Motel Ashburton: Experience a blend of business and leisure at Bella Vista Motel Ashburton, a 4-star property located 9.9km from Rakaia. Designed for the discerning business traveller, this motel features comprehensive facilities including a meeting room and conference space. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of nearby adventure sports such as fishing and waterskiing. With its dual focus on business amenities and recreational activities, Bella Vista Motel ensures a productive and enjoyable stay for all guests.

Where to stay near Rakaia

Rakaia, nestled in the picturesque Canterbury region, offers an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Explore the breathtaking Rakaia Gorge and take in the views of the Southern Alps. Enjoy the cooler weather while fishing or kayaking in the Rakaia River. For a taste of local life, visit the Rolleston shops, where friendly locals welcome visitors. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Rakaia is the perfect base for an enriching holiday experience.

• Hatfield: Nestled a mere 2.5km from Rakaia, Hatfield is a charming suburb that boasts stunning scenery and an array of outdoor adventures. The peak visitor season runs from January to March, attracting those eager to explore its hiking trails and natural wonders. With access to captivating landmarks like the nearby cape, beach, and canyon gorge, Hatfield offers a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
• Bankside: Located approximately 3.1km from Rakaia, Bankside is a vibrant suburb known for its outdoor and adventure activities. Visitors flock here during the peak months of January to February and November, drawn by the allure of its ski fields and outdoor pursuits. The proximity to breathtaking canyons and picturesque beaches makes Bankside a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy thrilling experiences.
• Chertsey: Just 3.1km from Rakaia, Chertsey is another delightful suburb perfect for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can enjoy a beachside experience, especially during the peak season from January to March. The area is renowned for its beautiful family beaches and scenic landscapes, including the striking cape. With its laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities, Chertsey is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a coastal setting.

Things to do near Rakaia

Rakaia is an ideal destination for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing at nearby ski fields and relaxing at local spas. For a leisurely day, there are lovely picnic areas perfect for enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, Rakaia offers a delightful blend of experiences for every traveller.

Shopping

Rakaia offers charming local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. You can explore the Rakaia Village shops for handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit Westfield Riccarton, where you'll find a variety of high street brands and specialty stores.

Recreation

Experience pure relaxation at Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa, where soothing thermal waters rejuvenate your body and spirit, just 13.0km from Rakaia. For outdoor enthusiasts, both Hororata Golf Club and Methven Golf Course, located 19 and 13.7km away respectively, offer invigorating golfing amidst picturesque landscapes.

Adventure

The Rakaia Gorge Walkway, located 15.5km from Rakaia, offers stunning scenery and an exhilarating hiking experience amidst rugged landscapes. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Mt Cheeseman Ski Area, situated 18.6km away, provides thrilling skiing opportunities with a vibrant sports atmosphere.

Nightlife

Rakaia offers a delightful mix of nightlife experiences. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the local Rakaia Hotel, renowned for its friendly atmosphere and hearty meals. For a more vibrant scene, visit the nearby Rakaia River, where you can unwind by the water under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia

To save money during your visit to Rakaia, consider travelling in March, May, or November when accommodation prices are generally lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and aim for a Tuesday stay for the cheapest rates. Use Expedia to compare room rates, explore last-minute offers, and consider package deals that bundle flights and activities. Don’t forget to filter for eco-friendly hotels if that aligns with your preferences, as this can also lead to savings.

• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can easily book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Rakaia hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Rakaia

Rakaia, nestled in Canterbury, New Zealand, offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. With popular attractions like the canyon gorge, urban park, and private gardens, it's perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the Rakaia Museum and other local highlights to enrich your visit. Whether you're seeking adventure or a tranquil escape, Rakaia promises a memorable experience for every traveller.

• Rakaia Gorge: Located 6.2km from Rakaia, Rakaia Gorge offers breathtaking scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning canyon and enjoy activities like white-water rafting, hiking, and photography, all set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the sparkling river.
• Ashburton Domain: Situated 10.6km away, Ashburton Domain is a delightful urban park perfect for families. With expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, it’s an ideal spot for outdoor activities, leisurely walks, or simply soaking up the sun amidst a vibrant city atmosphere.
• Ashburton Aviation Museum: Just 9.3km from Rakaia, this aviation museum showcases the rich cultural history of aviation in New Zealand. Marvel at a diverse collection of aircraft and learn about the evolution of flight through fascinating exhibits and displays.

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	Slightly High
February	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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	Average
August	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rakaia

For your visit to Rakaia, Canterbury, you can fly into two major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located 19.9km away, with nearby hotel options like the 5-star LyLo Christchurch, just 373m from the airport, and Sudima Christchurch City, 3.1km away, both offering accessible airport transport. Alternatively, Timaru Airport (TIU) is situated 53.1km from Rakaia, with accommodations such as Aspen on King Motel, 4.3km away, and Ashbury Park Motel, 3.1km away. These motels provide convenient access to Timaru Airport, making your travel seamless.