Find hotels in Rakaia from NT$1,513

Top reasons to visit Rakaia

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Rakaia offers breathtaking landscapes, including the stunning Rakaia Gorge and the iconic Rakaia Bridge, perfect for hikes and picnics.
• Thrilling Water Activities: Experience exciting water rafting on the Rakaia River, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Charming Local Culture: Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and explore local parks, gardens, and community events that showcase Rakaia's charm.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from family-friendly motels and cozy guesthouses, suitable for various preferences and budgets.
• Nature Walks: Discover picturesque nature walks that provide opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Find great hotels near Rakaia

Discover the charming town of Rakaia, Canterbury, where a variety of accommodations await to make your stay unforgettable. Choose from family-friendly motels and cozy guesthouses that welcome pets and embrace the LGBTQIA community. With options that cater to diverse needs, you're sure to find the perfect spot for relaxation. Explore the best hotels and top-rated accommodations in Rakaia, along with competitive room rates that suit your budget.

• Taylors Motel: Experience a welcoming family atmosphere at Taylors Motel, a 3.5-star lodging located 25.7km from Rakaia. This charming motel is perfect for family vacations, offering a variety of amenities designed to keep children entertained and comfortable. Families can take advantage of features like cribs, books for children, and toys for babies. For added convenience, babysitting services are available upon request, ensuring parents can enjoy some time to themselves. With its focus on family-friendly accommodations, Taylors Motel provides an ideal base for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
• Commodore Motor Lodge: Embrace a pet-friendly atmosphere at Commodore Motor Lodge, a 3-star property located 25.7km from Rakaia. This welcoming motel shines with its LGBTQIA-friendly environment, making it a great choice for diverse travelers. It permits pets on the property, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure. Guests will appreciate the amenities catering to pets, including free and permitted pets as well as waived fees for service animals. With its inclusive vibe, Commodore Motor Lodge is perfect for those seeking a comfortable and accommodating stay.
• Hotel Ashburton: Adventure awaits at Hotel Ashburton, a 3.5-star hotel situated 25.7km from Rakaia. Perfect for those seeking an active getaway, this hotel offers a golf-themed experience that appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike. Guests can engage in various adventure sports, including hiking, biking, snowboarding, and skydiving in nearby locations. Additionally, Hotel Ashburton is LGBTQIA-friendly, making it a welcoming space for all. With its focus on recreation and adventure, this hotel is an excellent choice for thrill-seekers looking to explore the great outdoors.

Where to stay near Rakaia

Rakaia, nestled in the heart of Canterbury, offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore the breathtaking Rakaia Gorge, where you can enjoy recreational activities and ideal picnic spots. The friendly locals add to the charm, making your stay memorable. Whether you're seeking adventure or just a peaceful retreat, Rakaia's convenient location provides easy access to nearby attractions that cater to all your outdoor and sports desires.

• Hatfield: Nestled a mere 6.4km from Rakaia, Hatfield is a charming suburb known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. This area attracts travelers year-round, with peak visits from July to September. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring scenic trails. Nearby landmarks such as the beach, cape, and canyon gorge provide breathtaking views and thrilling experiences, making Hatfield a perfect spot for those seeking adventure in nature.
• Bankside: Located 8.0km from Rakaia, Bankside is a vibrant suburb that offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. Visitor numbers see a spike in February and during the July to August period. This destination is ideal for those who appreciate skiing and wellness, with access to ski fields and body treatment venues. The nearby canyon and canyon gorge not only provide stunning landscapes but also exciting outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.
• Chertsey: Just 8.0km from Rakaia, Chertsey is a delightful suburb that invites visitors to indulge in the great outdoors. With its peak travel season occurring from July to September, Chertsey is perfect for those who crave adventure and scenic beauty. The local attractions include a family-friendly beach and an esplanade, offering ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day by the water or embark on a hiking adventure, Chertsey has something for everyone.

Things to do near Rakaia

Rakaia, located in Canterbury, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor and adventure vacations. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes on various trails, indulge in body treatments, and explore nature walks. Popular activities include day trips to local sightseeing spots and thrilling water rafting experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking recreation and natural beauty.

Shopping

In Rakaia, you can enjoy shopping at local boutiques and souvenir shops that offer unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit The Plaza in Christchurch, located about 40.2km away, where you'll find a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment.

Recreation

Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa, located 33.8km from Rakaia, offers a tranquil atmosphere with rejuvenating body treatments and soothing thermal waters. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hororata Golf Club, 30.6km away, provides a beautiful golf course surrounded by nature, while the Methven Golf Course, 35.4km from Rakaia, promises an exhilarating golfing experience.

Adventure

The Rakaia Gorge Walkway offers a stunning hiking trail that immerses you in breathtaking scenery, located 40.2km from Rakaia. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Mt Cheeseman Ski Area, situated 48.3km away, provides exhilarating skiing experiences amidst picturesque alpine landscapes.

Nightlife

Rakaia's nightlife offers a cozy, laid-back vibe. Enjoy a drink at the local favorite, the Rakaia Hotel, where friendly locals gather. For a fun night, check out the nearby Rakaia River for scenic views or join friends at a local bar for live music and laughter.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia

When planning your trip to Rakaia, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, and November, avoiding the pricier July to September. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia’s last-minute deals for discounts. Tuesdays offer the lowest hotel prices, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and preferences, and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore free local attractions to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Rakaia is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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 makes it easy to choose your budget, preferred location, and other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can 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, is perfect for scenic outdoor adventures. Explore the breathtaking Rakaia Gorge and take a stroll along the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, or admire the views from the iconic Rakaia Bridge. With attractions like urban parks and private gardens, there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking culture, family fun, or nature. Don't miss the nearby Rakaia River for additional outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes.

• Rakaia Gorge: Experience breathtaking scenery and adventure at Rakaia Gorge, a stunning canyon located 16.1km from Rakaia. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and scenic walks as you take in the dramatic landscapes and the vibrant blue waters of the Rakaia River.
• Ashburton Domain: Just 27.4km away from Rakaia, Ashburton Domain is a lovely urban park perfect for families. With expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely day in nature amidst the city's charm.
• Ashburton Aviation Museum: Located 24.1km from Rakaia, the Ashburton Aviation Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into aviation history. Explore an impressive collection of aircraft and artifacts, immersing yourself in the culture and stories of flight.

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

To visit Rakaia, Canterbury, you can fly into two major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located 51.5km away and offers several nearby hotels, such as the 5-star Hotel Give and Sudima Christchurch City, both 8.0km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels include limited hours airport shuttles and accessible options. Alternatively, Timaru Airport (TIU) is 58.0km away, with good hotel choices like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, both within 11.3km of Timaru Airport. These options make traveling to Rakaia convenient and comfortable.