Rakaia Gorge Tours and Activities

Rakaia Gorge which includes a river or creek
Rakaia Gorge featuring a lake or waterhole
Rakaia Gorge which includes tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole
Rakaia Gorge which includes a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes
Rakaia Gorge which includes tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole


Take a jet boat ride, go fishing, head out on a scenic walk with stunning views or just enjoy the incredible turquoise hues of this river gorge.

The Rakaia River cuts through the foothills of the Southern Alps, creating the picturesque Rakaia Gorge. From its rim or from its river, enjoy the views of the Southern Alps, the gorge’s cliffs and the stunning blue waters below.

Put on your hiking boots and set out along the Rakaia Gorge Walkway. This 6.5-mile (10.4-kilometer) long track takes most walkers 3 to 4 hours to complete. As you follow the initially forested track up, it takes you along the Ferryman’s Track a historic walkway lined with gorse. Farther along you will see the remnant rocks of old lava flows. The track finally dips into a gully with old coal mine shafts. Look for the remains of basic mining equipment left by coal miners.

Gaze down into the Rakaia River and marvel at its vibrant color when the sun hits its surface. Due to the sediment in the water from the Southern Alps, the river takes on a bright turquoise color most of the time. This color can drift through various shades depending on the seasons, water flow and weather.

Experience the gorge at a much faster pace with a jet boat ride along the river. The Discovery Jet offers trips of different lengths and levels of adventure. You can even take the boat up the river to the half-way point of the walkway and hike back for a great combination experience.

Try some other ways of embracing the scenery with a combination package from Discovery Jet. Choose between a leisurely horse ride, a thrilling white-water rafting adventure, or a helicopter ride for bird’s-eye views of the gorge. Of course you can always just go fishing, a more gentle way to spend a few hours in the sun. Arrange gear and transport through the Methven i-Site Visitor Information Centre.

Rakaia Gorge is located 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Methven and 47 miles (75 kilometers) from Christchurch. Discovery Jet is open daily, but pre-booking is advised. Guided trips depend on availability, river conditions and the weather. The walkway is publicly accessible at all times and free of charge, despite it crossing private farmland. The scenic walk is classed as easy and suitable for children.

Plan a trip to see Rakaia Gorge

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Release Wanaka - Apartment 26
Release Wanaka - Lake Edge
Release Wanaka - Genoa

Popular places to visit


Top Rakaia Gorge Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Methven Resort

Methven Resort

3.5 out of 5
51 Main St, Methven, Canterbury
Methven Resort
Ski Time Lodge

Ski Time Lodge

4 out of 5
39 Racecourse Avenue, Methven
Ski Time Lodge
Fable Terrace Downs Resort by Mgallery

Fable Terrace Downs Resort by Mgallery

4.5 out of 5
623 Coleridge Road, Windwhistle
Fable Terrace Downs Resort by Mgallery
Abisko Lodge

Abisko Lodge

3.5 out of 5
74 Main Street, Methven
Abisko Lodge
The Blue Pub

The Blue Pub

2 out of 5
2 Barkers Road, Methven
The Blue Pub
Brinkley Resort

Brinkley Resort

2.5 out of 5
43 Barkers Rd, Methven, Canterbury
Brinkley Resort
Methven Motels & Apartments

Methven Motels & Apartments

4 out of 5
197 Main Street, Methven
Methven Motels & Apartments
Snow Denn Lodge - Hostel

Snow Denn Lodge - Hostel

2 out of 5
6 Bank Street, Methven
Snow Denn Lodge - Hostel
The Brown Pub

The Brown Pub

2.5 out of 5
Corner Main Street & Forest Drive, Methven
The Brown Pub
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Rakaia Gorge

At Rakaia Gorge, you'll find an array of outdoor activities to enjoy, including scenic walks along the Rakaia Gorge Walk and various hiking trails that showcase the area's stunning natural beauty. For those looking to relax, there are designated camping areas perfect for an overnight stay. Additionally, you can indulge in a round of golf or explore nearby shopping options, making it a great destination for adventure and leisure alike.

Shopping

In Rakaia Gorge, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. For a broader selection, if you're up for a drive, visit the Ashburton Shopping Centre, about 32.2km away, which features a variety of retail options and charming local boutiques.

Recreation

Experience relaxation at Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa, where soothing thermal waters rejuvenate your body, just 19.3km from Rakaia Gorge. For some outdoor fun, enjoy a round of golf at the nearby Hororata Golf Club or Methven Golf Course, both offering beautiful landscapes and invigorating sports vibes.

Adventure

At Mount Hutt Skifield, 32.2km from Rakaia Gorge, enjoy thrilling skiing experiences amidst spectacular alpine scenery. Porters Ski Area, 46.7km away, offers incredible slopes for skiing enthusiasts. For a scenic adventure, explore the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, located 24.1km away, perfect for hiking and soaking in breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Enjoy the relaxed vibe at the Rakaia Gorge Hotel, where you can sip on local wines and enjoy hearty meals. For a more lively atmosphere, check out the nearby Windwhistle Tavern, featuring live music and a selection of craft beers to keep your night buzzing.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Rakaia Gorge

Rakaia Gorge offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including urban parks, stunning waterfalls, and private gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor adventures and cultural experiences while enjoying breathtaking mountain views. Key highlights include the heart of Rakaia Gorge, the lookout from the campground, and the picturesque Rakaia River Gorge, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

  • Washpen Falls: Located 22.5km from Rakaia Gorge, Washpen Falls offers a stunning waterfall experience surrounded by lush landscapes. Ideal for adventure seekers and couples, the scenic trails lead you to impressive viewpoints, perfect for capturing romantic moments and enjoying nature's beauty.
  • Ashburton Domain: Just 29.0km away, Ashburton Domain is a vibrant urban park ideal for families. With expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic spots, it’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors while being close to the city vibe.
  • Trott's Garden: Situated 25.7km from the gorge, Trott's Garden is a private garden oasis featuring beautifully manicured landscapes. With its relaxing atmosphere and friendly locals, it’s a luxurious escape that invites you to unwind and connect with nature.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rakaia Gorge

To save money during your visit to Rakaia Gorge, consider travelling in March, May, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure the best rates, particularly on Tuesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options, and consider package deals combining flights and activities. Don't forget to explore free activities around the gorge and check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Look for eco-friendly hotels to enjoy sustainable stays while earning rewards on your bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rakaia Gorge 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 around Rakaia Gorge 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 around Rakaia Gorge is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Rakaia Gorge is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can easily sort your results to display the lowest prices first, making it simple to find the most affordable accommodation. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Rakaia Gorge hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.