KiwiGlimpseOverview
Rai Valley is a small settlement located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand's South Island. The town is situated on State Highway 6, approximately halfway between Blenheim and Nelson. The valley is surrounded by hills and mountains, including the Richmond Range to the west and the Mount Richmond Forest Park to the north.
| Rai Valley Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Rai Valley |
| Region | Marlborough |
| District Council | Marlborough District |
| Postal Code: | 7194,7192 |
| Current Time: | 03:51 PM |
| Date: | Thursday, July 10, 2025(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 52.91 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -41.2276 |
| Longitude | 173.5817 |
| DMS Lat | -42° 46' 20.8036'' |
| DMS Long | 173° 34' 54.0289'' |
History
The Rai Valley was originally inhabited by the Ngati Rarua and Ngati Tama Maori tribes. European settlers arrived in the area in the mid-1800s and the town was established in the late 1800s as a service centre for the surrounding farming community.
Geography
The Rai River runs through the valley and provides water for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The valley is also home to the Rai Valley Area School, which serves the surrounding rural communities.
Rai Valley is located at latitude -41.22755456 and longitude 173.58167470 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -42° 46' 20.8036'' and longitude 173° 34' 54.0289'' (DMS).
Below is map of Rai Valley
Demographics
According to the 2018 New Zealand census, the population of the Rai Valley was 342, an increase of 27 people from the 2013 census. The population is predominantly of European descent, with Maori and Pacific Islander populations also represented.
Climate
The Rai Valley has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Rai Valley Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Rai Valley Live Weather
Light rain
Humidity: 95%
Wind: 2.56 mt/sec towards NE
observed on 10 Jul 2025 06:00
Rai Valley Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
11.68°C to 12.34°C
Light rain
12.58°C to 12.58°C
Moderate rain
12.64°C to 12.64°C
Light rain
12.49°C to 12.49°C
Light rain
12.55°C to 12.55°C
Light rain
13.35°C to 13.35°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
The Rai Valley is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The nearby Mount Richmond Forest Park offers hiking and camping, while the Rai River is popular for fishing and kayaking. The town also has a golf course and several cafes and shops.
Economy
The economy of the Rai Valley is largely based on agriculture, with dairy farming, sheep farming and forestry being the main industries. Tourism is also an important part of the local economy, particularly during the summer months.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Atawhai Kids |
| 2 | Canvastown School |
| 3 | Clifton Terrace School |
| 4 | Havelock School |
| 5 | Hira Rural Kindergarten |