What to do in Geraldine, Canterbury’s adventure capital!
Most would describe Geraldine as a quaint rural town, but we stand by claiming this Canterbury town as the region’s “adventure capital”! Some of New Zealand’s most epic canyoning and white water rafting can be done here, as well as outdoor adventures by horseback or on foot. But for those of you who prefer a bit of R&R on your travels, Geraldine has plenty to offer, from art galleries to browse to a fantastic farmers’ market through the summer. See what else you could be getting up to here with this list of things to do in Geraldine.While you’re here, you might also be interested in10 Awesome Things to Do in Fairlie and10 Unmissable Things to Do in Lake Tekapo.
1. Walk in the Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve
Walk along the trails of the ancient native forest right within walking distance of Geraldine town. See huge trees like totara, kahikatea and matai on a network of four short walks of about 10 minutes each. There is a picnic area to spend more time in this lush reserve.
Location: Tripp Street
© backpackerguide.nz2. Check out the local art galleries
Geraldine is a town of creatives, where many of their works are on display in the multiple art galleries. The McAtamney Gallery features contemporary works, while Merivale Fine Arts features stunning works of landscapes around the country. It’s also worth popping into the Susan Badcock Studio to see the artist’s latest works. What we love the most about the Geraldine art galleries is that they are all a stone’s throw away from each other.
Location: Talbot Street
© backpackerguide.nz3. Do the Orari Gorge Track
An excellent place for camping and hiking, the Orari Gorge Reserve features beautiful regenerating forest. The Orari Gorge Track is a 1h30min loop walk climbing a hill to an open viewpoint then back down through the forest.
Location: Yates Road, 14km north of Geraldine
© backpackerguide.nz4. Go White water rafting on the Rangitata River
One of the most adrenaline-pumping white water rafting trips in New Zealand is based just out of Geraldine along the Rangitata River. This grade 5 rafting trip with Rangitata Rafts takes you over heart-flipping (and sometimes raft-flipping) rapids along narrow river gorges. It’s a picturesque area that you will get a chance to embrace during some quieter sections of the river. The trip ends back at the rafting base with a barbecue dinner.
Location: 53 Waikari Rd, 35km north of Geraldine
© backpackerguide.nz5. Visit the Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Museum
Petrolheads and history enthusiasts will love this fascinating museum in town. There are more than 2,000 vehicles to check out, including 101 vintage tractors from 1912 onwards. Check out heritage farm equipment, as well as a 1929 Spartan Biplane.
Location: 178 Talbot Street
© Mr Thinktank on Wikipedia 6. Go Horse trekking in the Peel Forest
Get a real country experience and trek through gorgeous forest, river and mountaintop terrain with Peel Forest Horse Trekking. There’s a horse suitable for everyone and a tour to go with it, from 1-hour treks to multi-day excursions.
Location: 105 Dennistoun Road, 22km north of Geraldine
© backpackerguide.nz7. Go canyoning in the Kaumira Canyon
The Kaumira Canyon becomes your playground in this epic adventure activity with Big Rock Adventures. The 8-hour tour gets you scrambling, swimming and climbing through the river, jumping off waterfalls, ziplining and much more! It’s not for the faint-hearted, so if you’re into real adventures then consider this one. See more canyoning trips in New Zealand with our7 Impressive Canyoning Locations in New Zealand.
Location: Meet in Geraldine town centre.
© ChristchurchNZ8. Meet some woolly alpacas
During the summer months, Alpaca Walks is open for 30-minute tours where you’ll get to meet their woolly herd of alpacas. It’s a great option for families and animal-lovers, where you’ll get to pet and feed the alpacas, as well as meet other farm animals. Alternatively, do a 1-hour alpaca walk along the riverside.
Location: 188 Beeby Road, 15km south of Geraldine
© backpackerguide.nz9. Check out the Geraldine Farmers’ Market
Like any rural New Zealand town, Geraldine has a farmers’ market. Between October and April, the Geraldine Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday morning. Browse a wide range of artisan products, from preserves to smoked meats and baked goods to crafts. There will be the opportunity to grab a coffee and mingle with the locals.
Location: St Marys Churchyard, Talbot Street
© Nancy Zhou - ChristchurchNZ10. Stargaze at the Geraldine Observatory
On the edge of an International Dark Sky Reserve, Geraldine offers impeccable stargazing. Amp up the experience by using the high-powered telescopes of the Geraldine Observatory. The observatory is operated by a passionate local astronomer, where you’re sure to learn a great deal about the Southern night’s sky.
Location: 22 Macdonald Street
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