Find hotels in Rakaia from $49

Top reasons to visit Rakaia

• Stunning Rakaia Gorge: A picturesque destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and recreational activities.
• Rakaia River Adventures: Engage in exciting activities like white-water rafting and nature walks along this serene river.
• Historic Rakaia Museum: Explore the local heritage and learn about the history of the area at this charming museum.
• Rakaia Bridge: Visit this iconic bridge for stunning views and great photo opportunities.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of comfortable lodging options, including pet-friendly motels and guesthouses.

Find great hotels near Rakaia

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Rakaia, Canterbury, perfect for your family adventure. From cozy motels to welcoming guesthouses, you'll find the best hotels that cater to travelers seeking pet-friendly stays and memorable experiences. Whether you're looking for top-notch amenities or affordable room rates, Rakaia has something for everyone, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable getaway.

• Hotel Ashburton: Nestled 16 miles from Rakaia, Hotel Ashburton boasts a vibrant golf-themed atmosphere perfect for adventure seekers and LGBTQIA travelers. This 3.5-star hotel is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring an inclusive environment. Guests can immerse themselves in various adventure sports such as skiing, skydiving, mountain biking, snowboarding, and hiking, making it an ideal choice for those looking to combine relaxation with excitement.
• Taylors Motel: Also located 16 miles away from Rakaia, Taylors Motel caters to families seeking a comfortable vacation experience. This 3.5-star motel is designed with children’s needs in mind, offering amenities such as toys for babies and children, window guards, books, and even a trampoline. Families can enjoy a worry-free stay while engaging in fun activities together, making it a great option for a family getaway.
• Bella Vista Motel Ashburton: Situated 16 miles from Rakaia, Bella Vista Motel Ashburton is a stylish 4-star property that combines hot spring relaxation with golf and business facilities. With natural hot springs nearby, guests can unwind in soothing waters after a day on the golf course. The motel is also equipped with business amenities, including conference space and meeting rooms, making it suitable for both leisure and work-related stays. This versatile accommodation is perfect for travelers looking for a blend of relaxation and productivity.

Where to stay near Rakaia

Rakaia, nestled in Canterbury, New Zealand, offers a perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty. Explore the breathtaking Rakaia Gorge, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities. With friendly locals and rich history, you'll find convenient picnic areas to unwind and appreciate the stunning landscapes. Whether you're interested in beach outings or skiing nearby, Rakaia serves as a fantastic base for unforgettable experiences in this captivating region.

• Hatfield: Nestled about 4 miles from Rakaia, Hatfield is a charming suburb that beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With a steady flow of travelers year-round, this area shines brightest in February and the winter months of July to August. Visitors flock here for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, with popular hiking trails offering breathtaking views. Nearby, you can explore notable landmarks such as captivating beaches and dramatic canyons, making Hatfield a perfect base for outdoor exploration.
• Bankside: Located 5 miles from Rakaia, Bankside is another inviting suburb where outdoor enthusiasts can thrive. Like Hatfield, it experiences peak visitation in February and during the winter, with slightly quieter months from April to June. The area is known for its adventurous spirit, offering a range of activities from outdoor excursions to relaxing spa treatments. Visitors will also find themselves close to stunning canyons and gorge views, making Bankside an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.
• Chertsey: Just 5 miles from Rakaia, Chertsey is the perfect destination for beach lovers and families seeking a scenic getaway. This suburb maintains a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, with peak numbers in February and the winter months. Chertsey is well-known for its beautiful beaches, where families can enjoy sun-soaked days by the water. Nearby attractions, including family-friendly beach spots and charming coastal capes, make this suburb a delightful choice for anyone looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors.

Things to do near Rakaia

Rakaia, located in Canterbury, New Zealand, is ideal for outdoor and adventure vacations. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing at local ski fields, indulging in body treatments, and engaging in recreational pursuits like nature walks and white-water rafting. The area also offers breathtaking sightseeing spots and exciting day trips, making it a great destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In Rakaia, enjoy local shops with unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Ashburton Mall, about 15 miles away, featuring a variety of retail stores and dining options. For a larger selection, Christchurch's Westfield Riccarton is approximately 30 miles down the road.

Recreation

Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa, located 21 miles from Rakaia, offers a rejuvenating experience with thermal pools and spa treatments that promote relaxation and wellness. For sports enthusiasts, Hororata Golf Club and Methven Golf Course, both within 22 miles, provide stunning outdoor settings for a round of golf.

Adventure

At Mt Cheeseman Ski Area, located 30 miles from Rakaia, you can enjoy exhilarating skiing amid breathtaking mountain views. The Rakaia Gorge Walkway, 25 miles away, offers a scenic hiking trail perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Rakaia offers a cozy nightlife atmosphere with local pubs like the Rakaia Hotel, perfect for a relaxed drink. For a lively vibe, check out the Rakaia River Brewery, where you can enjoy craft beers and live music, making for a delightful evening with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia

To save money on your trip to Rakaia, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, or November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Sundays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels. Joining the One Key membership can provide additional discounts. Lastly, look for last-minute deals for potential savings on your travel plans.

• 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: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display the lowest prices first, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel category; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be able to view sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Rakaia hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Rakaia

Rakaia, located in Canterbury, New Zealand, offers a fantastic blend of scenery and adventure for tourists. Key attractions include the stunning Rakaia Gorge, the peaceful Rakaia River, and the historic Rakaia Museum. Visitors can also explore the Rakaia Bridge and enjoy the nearby urban parks and private gardens. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or cultural experiences, Rakaia has something for everyone.

• Rakaia Gorge: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rakaia Gorge, a stunning canyon located 10 miles from Rakaia. Enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking while soaking in the spectacular scenery and vibrant natural surroundings.
• Ashburton Domain: A family-friendly urban park situated 17 miles away, Ashburton Domain offers lush green spaces perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Engage with the local community while enjoying a serene atmosphere amidst the city vibes.
• Trott's Garden: Discover the tranquility of Trott's Garden, a private garden located 16 miles from Rakaia. With its luxurious setting and friendly atmosphere, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of meticulously curated floral 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	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 to visit Rakaia, Canterbury, the nearest major airport is Christchurch International Airport (CHC), located 32 miles away. Excellent hotel options near CHC include the 5-star LyLo Christchurch, just 0.6 miles away, and the 5-star Sudima Christchurch City, approximately 5 miles from the airport. Both hotels offer convenient airport access. Alternatively, you can consider flying into Timaru (TIU-Richard Pearse), which is 55 miles from Rakaia. Nearby accommodations include the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, located 7 miles away, and the 4-star Baywatch Motor Lodge, 6 miles away, both providing comfortable stays for your visit.