Rakaia Hotels from ₹4,995

Top reasons to visit Rakaia

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Rakaia offers stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, skiing, and kayaking, catering to adventure enthusiasts.
• Charming Rakaia River: Stroll along the picturesque Rakaia River, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and romantic picnics.
• Rich History: Explore local attractions such as the Rakaia Museum and Rakaia Bridge, showcasing the area's heritage.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy various recreational spots and urban parks, perfect for family outings and relaxing days.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from motels to guesthouses, catering to all travellers' needs in this scenic region.

Find great hotels near Rakaia

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Rakaia, Canterbury, tailored to suit every traveller's needs. From family-friendly motels to charming guesthouses, Rakaia offers a variety of lodging types for those seeking adventure or a pet-friendly getaway. Whether you're looking for a comfortable hotel or a scenic spot near the Rakaia Gorge, you'll find the perfect base to explore this picturesque region.

• Hotel Ashburton: Nestled 26km away from Rakaia, Hotel Ashburton is a 3.5-star hotel that invites adventure seekers to experience its hot spring theme. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this property features nearby natural hot springs, providing a relaxing retreat after a day filled with outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy a range of adventure sports such as snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, and downhill skiing, all within close reach. The hotel's blend of comfort and thrill makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
• Taylors Motel: Located 26km from Rakaia, Taylors Motel is a family-friendly accommodation boasting a stellar guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This 3.5-star motel is tailored for families, offering amenities designed with children in mind, including window guards, toys, highchairs, and cribs, ensuring a secure and enjoyable stay for younger guests. With its welcoming atmosphere and focus on family comforts, Taylors Motel is an excellent option for those travelling with children who wish to create lasting memories together.
• The Suites Ashburton: Also situated 26km from Rakaia, The Suites Ashburton is a 3.5-star motel with an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Like Taylors Motel, it caters to families, providing a wealth of amenities for children such as shared playground facilities, toys, and a first aid kit for peace of mind. The accommodation strikes a balance between comfort and family-oriented services, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a relaxing yet engaging vacation with loved ones.

Where to stay near Rakaia

Rakaia offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for a picturesque getaway. Stroll along the stunning Rakaia River, where ample recreational opportunities abound, from fishing to kayaking. The charming surroundings provide a romantic backdrop for couples seeking intimate escapes. With friendly locals and a rich history, Rakaia is an ideal base to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Canterbury and indulge in all the adventures it has to offer.

• Hatfield: Nestled approximately 6km from Rakaia, Hatfield is a charming suburb that offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors are drawn to the area for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities, particularly during peak months in February and July to August. The local highlights include the breathtaking canyon gorge and its captivating canyon, perfect for hiking and exploration. With a tranquil atmosphere and ample recreational activities, Hatfield is an excellent destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Bankside: Located around 8km from Rakaia, Bankside is a picturesque suburb that boasts a variety of scenic landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. The area experiences a steady flow of visitors, particularly peaking in February and during the winter months of July to August. Travellers flock to Bankside for its remarkable skiing opportunities, with ski fields nearby, making it an ideal spot for winter sports enthusiasts. The enchanting canyon gorge and cape add to the allure, offering stunning vistas and opportunities for exploration.
• Chertsey: Also situated about 8km from Rakaia, Chertsey is a quaint suburb that provides a perfect blend of scenery and outdoor adventure. Like its neighbours, Chertsey sees a consistent influx of visitors, particularly in February and the winter months of July to August. The area is known for its beautiful beach, alongside the impressive canyon and cape that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of outdoor activities, Chertsey is an inviting destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Things to do in Rakaia

Shopping

In Rakaia, you can enjoy quaint shops and local markets offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit The Plaza in Ashburton, about 24km away, featuring a variety of shops and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

In Rakaia, the Rakaia River Spa offers a tranquil escape with rejuvenating treatments and stunning river views. Nearby, the Ashburton Lakes provide opportunities for hiking and kayaking, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying fresh air and beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Rakaia River, where you can navigate exciting rapids and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding scenery. For a unique perspective, try a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking landscapes of Canterbury, capturing the beauty of mountains and rivers from above.

Nightlife

Visit the Rakaia Hotel for a relaxed atmosphere and a selection of local beers. For a vibrant night, check out the Rakaia Tavern, where you can enjoy live music and hearty meals, creating a friendly and lively vibe in town.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia

For budget-conscious travellers to Rakaia, New Zealand, consider visiting in March, May, or November for lower accommodation prices, avoiding the peak season from July to September. Book your hotel about a month in advance for better deals, particularly on Tuesdays, which are often the cheapest days. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and amenities, such as eco-certified hotels, and consider package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't miss exploring free local attractions to make the most of your visit without overspending.

• 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: Book your hotel in Rakaia about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money 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, New Zealand, is an ideal destination for scenic and adventurous vacations. Visitors can explore attractions like the Rakaia Museum, Rakaia Bridge, and the picturesque Upper Rakaia River. With highlights including canyon gorges and urban parks, Rakaia offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences, making it a perfect getaway for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Rakaia Gorge: Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating outdoor adventures at Rakaia Gorge, a stunning canyon located approximately 16km from Rakaia. The gorge is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and photography amidst nature's beauty.
• Ashburton Domain: Situated about 27km from Rakaia, Ashburton Domain is an urban park that provides a tranquil escape within the city. Perfect for families, it features expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for leisurely picnics and outdoor activities.
• Trott's Garden: Just 26km from Rakaia, Trott's Garden is a charming private garden that offers a relaxing atmosphere amidst lush flora. Visitors can enjoy the serene environment, friendly locals, and the luxury of well-maintained gardens, making it a delightful retreat.

Best time to go to Rakaia

The best time to visit Rakaia is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

Flying into Rakaia, Canterbury, is convenient with Christchurch International Airport (CHC) located 51km away. Excellent hotel options nearby include the 5-star Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both around 8km from the airport, offering accessible airport shuttle services. LyLo Christchurch, a 5-star hostel, is merely 966m away. Alternatively, Hokitika Airport (HKK) is 143km distant, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star Rimu Lodge and the 4.5-star Awatuna Sunset Lodge, offering limited-hour shuttle services. Timaru Airport (TIU) is 89km from Rakaia, with options such as the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel and Ashbury Park Motel, both within 11km.