The Geraldine and Four Peaks region is located in the central South Island between Christchurch and Queenstown. The region offers many diverse activities and attractions. There's something for everyone, whether you are looking for active adventure or quiet recreational and cultural pursuits.
About half an hours' drive from Timaru, one hours' drive to Lake Tekapo and under two hours' drive from Aoraki Mount Cook, Geraldine village provides a picturesque central base for exploring South Canterbury. Charming, relaxed, and friendly, Geraldine was rated by Lonely Planet as the prettiest small town in New Zealand.
A boutique shopping village, Geraldine features a tasty selection of handmade chocolates, cheeses, jams/sauces, dessert toppings and a fine choice of cafés and restaurants.
Local attractions include trout and salmon fishing, rafting on the Rangitata River, 10 skifields within two hours' drive, scenic alpine Lord of the Rings 4WD tours, arts and crafts trail, grand country gardens and an unbelievable 18 golf courses all within an hours' drive.
Talbot Forest at the heart of the village has many short bush walks as does the Waihi River and nearby Peel Forest. The village features a museum, vintage machinery museum, glass blowing and sculpturing and a lovely cinema. The inspiration of the setting and atmosphere of the region draws many artists to settle here every year.
In the middle of scenic touring routes, there are so many reasons to stop over or stay at the Geraldine Motels.
Rangitata Rafts
Rangitata Rafts' trips are exciting, fun and relaxed. You're out on the river for nearly three hours which is more than enough time to learn some boat skills, get your share of some of New Zealand's best rapids and make a raft-full of new friends!
Kiwi Country / Information Centre
Find out more information about where are you travelling next or events in Geraldine at the i-SITE located at the back of the store, grab a few NZ souvenirs/mementos and visit Mundell's Café. Also make sure to check out the World's Largest Knitted Jersey here at the i-SITE!
Geraldine Farmers Market
From October to April each year the Geraldine Farmers Market is 'the' place to be in Geraldine on a Saturday morning. Operating from 9 – 12.30 pm, the market bustles with fresh produce, crafts, coffee and delicious baking, accompanied by the pleasant background hum of friends chatting and local musician's entertaining. The market is a real highlight for locals and visitors alike.
Geraldine Cinema
Great for a rainy day or if you want to watch some of the latest films in this quirky little cinema. Who needs cinema seating, when you can have sofas instead?
Peel Forest Horse Trekking
Horse trekking through the Peel Forest near Geraldine with friendly guides and well-mannered horses. See some of the most gorgeous countryside in Canterbury.
Geraldine District Golf Club
Fancy a round of golf in pleasant country surroundings? The Geraldine District Golf Club is the place for you. The course called "Denfield" is situated on the Orari Back Road just 5km from the centre of Geraldine. The 5544m layout is noted for its fine plantings of trees and shrubs, magnificent greens and wonderful views of the nearby mountains.
Geraldine Historical Museum
With a large range of photographs and displays, Geraldine Museum is the place to go if you would like to learn more about the history of this small town.
Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Museum
A vast range of old cars and other vehicles, displayed in well-organised showrooms. Leap back in time to view well-maintained vehicles and machinery.
4X4 Adventures – Lord of the Rings Tour
Let 4x4 Adventures transport you through the landscapes that appeared on the big screen with a one-day 4x4 adventure into Middle Earth to see the locations used for Edoras, Helm's Deep, The Misty Mountains and much more.