Geraldine is one of the most beautiful country village settings in all of New Zealand. Located 36 kilometres northwest of Timaru, with an approximate population of 2500, Geraldine is situated near the base of rolling downlands and is divided by the pastoral Waihi River.

Geraldine was discovered in the 1840s but it wasn't until 1854 that Samual Hewlings built the first bark hut on what is now Talbot Street. The totara tree which was planted to mark the birth of his daughter, the first child of European stock born in the area, still stands on the site. Sheep runs were the money makers, and pit sawmilling the second main industry. When the bush was exhausted, huge wheat crops sprawled over the plains.

A short 5 minute walk from downtown takes you to Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve which represents one of the best remnants of lowland podocarp native forest. It has lovely walks, views over Canterbury plains, native birds, and picnic areas. The town's domain park has beautiful gardens, magnificent exotic trees which are especially attractive in autumn, a playground, cricket pitch, lawnbowls facility, tennis, netball, numerous picnic spots, and a recently upgraded heated outdoor public swimming pool. Homeowners also take great pride in their gardens and many special properties are open to the public at certain times of year, particularly during the annual Arts & Plants Festival.

Geraldine is home to gifted artists and artisans, and many of these talented peole have their work on sale in the town itself or in nearby studios. Some of the creations come in culinary form too -- Geraldine's Talbot Forest Cheese, Chocolate Brown Chocolates, and internationally recognised and award-winning Barkers fruit products all have outlets in town, along with many excellent cafes and restaurants.

A short drive from Geraldine is Peel Forest. This is a very precious and extensive podocarp forest with abundant birdlife, numerous bush walks, and picnic/camping facilities. Continue through Peel Forest alongside the Rangitata River (home of world class whitewater rafting, 4-wheel adventures, trout and salmon fishing) into the upper Rangitata River Valley for some of the most spectacular alpine and high country scenery in New Zealand. Peter Jackson chose this superb valley as an important location to produce his Academy Award winning Lord of the Rings films.

Contact Us

Address:
55 Cox St, Geraldine,
New Zealand

Telephone: +64 3 693 8605
Mobile: +64 21 082 642 12
Freephone: 0800 537 533
E-mail: victoriavilla@xtra.co.nz
Website: www.geraldineaccommodation.com

For any enquiries for booking availability or for more information please don't hesitate to contact us.