Search Waiau hotels

Top reasons to visit Waiau

• Stunning Scenery: Waiau boasts breathtaking mountain landscapes and lush forests, perfect for nature lovers.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing in the nearby ski fields.
• Relaxing Retreats: Enjoy rejuvenating body treatments and tranquil beach escapes in the area.
• Free Camping Sites: Discover beautiful free camping spots, ideal for families and adventure seekers.
• Varied Accommodation: Choose from cosy motels to inviting lodges to suit every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels near Waiau

Experience a delightful stay in Waiau, Canterbury, where a range of accommodation options await to suit every traveller's needs. From cosy motels to inviting lodges, you'll find the perfect base for your adventure. Whether you're seeking family-friendly facilities, business amenities, or affordable lodging, Waiau offers a variety of hotels, including the well-known Waiau Tavern and options for budget-conscious visitors. Enjoy the charm of this picturesque town while having all the comforts of home.

• Braemar Lodge And Spa: Nestled 20.9km from Waiau, Braemar Lodge And Spa is a luxurious 4.5-star retreat that perfectly encapsulates the essence of adventure and family-friendly experiences. With a range of on-site activities including mountain biking and helicopter tours, it’s an ideal choice for thrill-seekers. The property also caters to families with amenities like a dedicated arcade game room and first aid kit, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this lodge offers a unique blend of opulence and outdoor excitement.
• Hanmer Springs Retreat: Located 22.5km from Waiau, Hanmer Springs Retreat is a sophisticated 4.5-star motel that caters to both business and leisure travellers. Its comprehensive business facilities, including conference and meeting rooms, make it perfect for those needing to mix work with pleasure. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in nearby mountain biking and parasailing activities. Families are well cared for with amenities like a shared playground and arcade game room, ensuring fun for all ages in this vibrant retreat.
• Settlers Boutique Motel: Settlers Boutique Motel, situated 22.5km from Waiau, is a charming 4-star guesthouse that offers a homely atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities. Guests can explore nearby fishing spots, hiking trails, and horse riding experiences, making it an adventurous choice for nature lovers. The motel also provides entertainment options such as cable TV and premium channels, ensuring a comfortable stay. With its cozy environment and access to outdoor activities, Settlers Boutique Motel is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable getaway.

Where to stay near Waiau

Waiau, nestled in Canterbury, offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and outdoor adventure for families. Explore breathtaking mountain views and enjoy free camping sites in the surrounding areas. Whether you’re seeking tranquil beach escapes or thrilling ski experiences, Waiau and its nearby regions promise a memorable getaway, ideal for those who love nature and adventure.

• Emu Plain: Nestled approximately 9.7km from Waiau, Emu Plain is a charming suburb that offers visitors a delightful mix of beach and outdoor experiences. With a steady flow of tourists, especially during the peak months of January to February and July, it’s a popular spot for those looking to enjoy the stunning scenery. Here, you can indulge in body treatments or hit the nearby ski fields. Local attractions include a picturesque monument, a relaxing hotspring, and a beautiful beach, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
• Rotherham: Also located 9.7km from Waiau, Rotherham is a vibrant suburb that attracts visitors throughout the year, with peak travel times in January, April, and September. Known for its beach, skiing, and sports activities, Rotherham offers a variety of venues for body treatments and skiing enthusiasts alike. While exploring the area, don’t miss the local art gallery, captivating cape, and intriguing monument that reflect the rich culture and history of the region.
• Leslie Hills: Just 14.5km from Waiau, Leslie Hills is a picturesque suburb that invites those yearning for scenic views and outdoor adventures. The area sees a consistent number of visitors year-round, peaking in January to February and July. With access to body treatments and a host of natural attractions including a monument, hotspring, and beach, Leslie Hills is an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Canterbury region.

Things to do near Waiau

Waiau offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Visitors can explore the local ski field, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments, and engage in various outdoor activities. Don't miss the chance to discover the captivating local attractions that showcase the beauty of Canterbury. Waiau promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture here.

Shopping

In Waiau, you can explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Rangiora and Kaiapoi where you’ll find larger shopping centres with a wider range of boutiques and specialty stores.

Recreation

A Maze N Golf, located 22.5km from Waiau, offers a fun-filled mini-golf experience, perfect for families and friends seeking adventure. Meanwhile, the Hawarden Golf Club, 43.5km away, invites you to enjoy a relaxing day on the green amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

At Mount Lyford Ski Field, located 22.5km from Waiau, experience thrilling skiing and snowboarding amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. Explore the Conical Hill Walkway and Mount Isobel Track, both situated 24.1km away, for invigorating hikes that showcase the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventure of the region.

Nightlife

Experience Waiau's charm at the Waiau Hotel, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and a cold beer. For a laid-back vibe, visit the local community centre for social events and gatherings, or check out nearby pubs for friendly banter and live music on weekends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waiau

To save money on your trip to Waiau, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May and August to September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Wednesday is the most affordable day to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, such as Eco-certified options. Additionally, consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to save even more. Enjoy free activities like scenic walks and local parks to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waiau are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Waiau is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waiau is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Waiau is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Waiau hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Waiau

Waiau is a hidden gem for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures in the heart of Canterbury. Visitors can explore breathtaking mountain landscapes, lush forests, and vibrant local galleries. Whether you're keen on hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the stunning views, Waiau offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

• Mount Cookson: Experience the breathtaking views and rugged terrain of Mount Cookson, located 14.5km from Waiau. This mountain offers thrilling outdoor adventures, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with stunning scenery that'll leave you in awe.
• Hanmer Heritage Forest: Just 22.5km from Waiau, Hanmer Heritage Forest invites you to wander through its enchanting woodlands. With a variety of walking and biking trails, it’s ideal for those seeking adventure while surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.
• Culverden Gallery: Situated 20.9km from Waiau, Culverden Gallery showcases local art and culture. Discover unique exhibitions that reflect the region's artistic spirit, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those wanting to connect with the local community.

Best time to go to Waiau

The best time to visit Waiau is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	60.3°F (15.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High