Last updated October 2026
The Orari River Gorge lies in the Orari Gorge Scenic Reserve at the base of Little Mt Peel, about 15 km north of Geraldine. The Ōrāri River flows through regenerating native bush, creating sheltered swimming holes and supporting trout fishing.
A popular walking track follows the route of an old bush tramway, and day visits remain possible even though the onsite campsite is currently closed.
Swimming Facts
Before you swim: Tested weekly Nov–Mar by Environment Canterbury. Stay out for 48 hours after heavy rain. Latest result on LAWA
Today at Orari River Gorge
Saturday 24 OctoberWater quality track record
What the grades mean
Excellent and Good: rarely unsafe for swimming. Fair: usually fine, but avoid swimming after rain. Poor: often unsuitable, especially after rain, so check the latest result first.
Grades use LAWA’s method: the 95th percentile of routine E. coli results over the five summers from 2020/21 to 2024/25, with at least 50 tests (276 per 100 mL from 74 tests).
Know Before You Go
- Location
- Orari Gorge Scenic Reserve, 15 km north of Geraldine via Tripp Settlement Rd and Yates Rd
- Access
- Day visits free; car park at track start opposite Glenburn Youth Camp
- Facilities
- Picnic area, toilets and tap water available for day use
- Activities
- Swimming, walking on Orari Gorge Track, trout fishing
- Campsite
- Closed indefinitely (DOC)
- Water quality
- Monitored by Environment Canterbury in summer; check LAWA before swimming
Getting to Know Orari River Gorge
The gorge section of the Ōrāri River cuts through native bush and regenerating forest within the scenic reserve. Large tōtara, kahikatea and mataī stand among kānuka stands, providing a quiet, shaded setting for recreation on warm South Canterbury days.
The river offers multiple swimming holes along its course through the gorge. It is also recognised as a trout fishery holding brown and rainbow trout, with occasional salmon runs later in the season.
Day visitors can combine swimming or fishing with the Orari Gorge Track. The reserve sits in the foothills of Little Mt Peel and forms part of the broader Geraldine area recreation network managed by the Department of Conservation.
Orari Gorge Track
The Orari Gorge Track is a 1.5-hour easy circular walk starting from the car park. It initially follows the route of an old bush tramway used for historical logging. The track passes through regenerating forest with large native trees, climbs to an open high point, and returns through kānuka stands.
The surface can be steep in places and slippery or muddy after rain. The track provides river access at several points and adds walking options to a swimming or fishing visit.
Swimming and Water Quality
Swimming holes are accessible along the river within the scenic reserve. Environment Canterbury monitors recreational water quality at the Orari River at Orari Gorge site during the summer season. Visitors should check current results on the LAWA website before entering the water and avoid swimming for 48–72 hours after heavy rain due to potential increases in E. coli and sediment.
Fishing
The Ōrāri River supports brown and rainbow trout fishing in its upper and gorge sections. Anglers should follow Fish & Game New Zealand regulations for the Central South Island region, including any seasonal or bag limits that apply.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Orari Gorge Track: official track description, access directions and conditions.
LAWA – Orari River at Orari Gorge: current summer water quality monitoring results and site information.
Timaru District Council – Orari Gorge Track: local walking and cycling information for the area.
Common Questions About Orari River Gorge
Where is the Orari River Gorge?
It lies in the Orari Gorge Scenic Reserve at the base of Little Mt Peel, 15 km north of Geraldine. Access is via Main North Rd (SH72), Tripp Settlement Rd and Yates Rd.
Is the campsite open?
No, the Orari Campsite is currently closed indefinitely according to the Department of Conservation.
Are there swimming holes?
Yes, the river has multiple swimming holes along the gorge section through the scenic reserve.
Is the water quality good enough for swimming?
Check the LAWA website for the latest summer monitoring results. Avoid the river for 48 to 72 hours after heavy rain.
What is the walking track like?
The Orari Gorge Track is a 1.5-hour easy loop that follows an old bush tramway through regenerating native forest and offers river access points.
Can I fish at the Orari River Gorge?
Yes, the river supports brown and rainbow trout fishing. Follow current Fish & Game regulations for the region.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted on the Orari Gorge Track.
What facilities are available for day visitors?
A car park, picnic area, toilets and tap water are provided for day use.
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