KiwiGlimpseOverview
Rakautahi is a small rural community located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by farmland and mountains, with the Rakaia River flowing nearby. Rakautahi is known for its peaceful atmosphere, friendly community and proximity to natural attractions such as ski resorts and national parks.
| Rakautahi Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Rakautahi |
| Region | Taranaki |
| District Council | Stratford District |
| Sub-District | Stratford District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 07:42 AM |
| Date: | Monday, May 19, 2025(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | -53.82 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -43.8200 |
| Longitude | -176.5800 |
| DMS Lat | -44° 10' 48'' |
| DMS Long | -177° 25' 12'' |
History
The area around Rakautahi has a rich cultural history, with the Māori people living in the area for centuries before the arrival of European settlers. The town was established in the 19th century and was a significant center of trade and transportation along the Rakaia River. Today, Rakautahi remains a hub for agriculture and small businesses catering to visitors to the area.
Geography
Rakautahi is situated in a valley surrounded by farmland and mountains. The town is located approximately 50 kilometers from the Mount Hutt Ski Area, which is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The nearby Rakaia River provides visitors with opportunities for fishing and water sports.
Rakautahi is located at latitude -43.82 and longitude -176.58 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -44° 10' 48'' and longitude -177° 25' 12'' (DMS).
Below is map of Rakautahi
Demographics
Rakautahi has a small population of approximately 150 people, with the majority of residents being involved in agriculture or small businesses catering to visitors. The community is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with visitors often commenting on the warm hospitality they receive during their stay in Rakautahi.
Climate
The climate in Rakautahi is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with occasional heavy rain and snowfall during the winter months. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions when visiting Rakautahi.
Rakautahi Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Rakautahi Live Weather
Scattered clouds
Humidity: 68%
Wind: 4.67 mt/sec towards SW
observed on 18 May 2025 21:00
Rakautahi Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
13.27°C to 13.27°C
Scattered clouds
13.81°C to 14.9°C
Scattered clouds
12.63°C to 12.63°C
Clear sky
14.21°C to 14.21°C
Clear sky
14.74°C to 14.74°C
Clear sky
15.26°C to 15.26°C
Light rain
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Rakautahi is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Mount Hutt Ski Area, the Rakaia Gorge and the Ashburton Lakes. The Mount Hutt Ski Area is a large ski resort with excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The Rakaia Gorge is a stunning natural feature with hiking trails and opportunities to see the local wildlife. The Ashburton Lakes is a group of three stunning lakes with opportunities for fishing, hiking and camping.
Economy
Agriculture is the main industry in Rakautahi, with dairy farming and sheep farming being common activities. The town also benefits from tourism, with many small businesses catering to visitors to the area. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Rakautahi make it a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing rural getaway or outdoor activities.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Kaingaroa School (Chatham Islands) |
| 2 | Pitt Island School |
| 3 | Porangahau Playcentre |
| 4 | Porangahau School |
| 5 | Te Kōhanga Reo o Wharekauri |
Nearby Towns and Cities
| Popular Towns and Cities | |
|---|---|
| Admiral Farm | Kairakau, Chatham Islands |
| Lake Marakapia | Lake Rotoparaoa |
| Matanginui Creek | Paritu, Chatham Islands |
| Rakautahi | Te Pukaha |
| Te Roto, Chatham Islands | Tennants Lake |