Geraldine Attractions

The village of Geraldine is set on the popular Southern Scenic Route from Christchurch to Queenstown. Being 90 minutes drive from Christchurch, it is an ideal stopover as you take in the Rakaia Gorge and Mt Hutt skifield. It is situated on the banks of the Waihi River and is some 90 metres above sea level. The region enjoys a moderate climate with an average rainfall of 630mm (approx 25 inches) and an impressive total of annual sunshine hours. There is a degree of freedom from the winds which sometimes buffet the plains and lower temperatures nearer the coast.

Local attractions include trout and salmon fishing, white-water rafting on the Rangitata river, and the option of ski fields within 2 hour drive. Alpine Scenic Lord of the Rings 4WD tours, arts and crafts trail, grand country gardens and an unbelievable 18-hole golf course are within a 10 minute drive.

Talbot Forest at the heart of the village has many short bush walks, as does the Waihi River. The village features a museum, vintage machinery museum, glass blowing and sculpturing, a lovely cinema and a fine choice of cafés and restaurants. There is also Gourmet Cheese and the Giant Jersey.

Increasingly, people are staying here at Geraldine as their last night before flying home via Christchurch International Airport.