And here you are indeed. You’ve arrived in the gorgeous Geraldine, fields either side of the road giving way to buildings on your approach to this fabulous inland South Canterbury rural town.
Walk with giants, and gaze to the heavens
It’s a pretty and charming town, and you’re spoilt here. There’s stunning scenery all around the area, no shortage of rivers, gorges, mountains, forests… So for even more peace and serenity and to hear some local birdsong, or to escape from a hot summer’s day, head to the native forest close to the town centre, or many more wooded spots within driving distance. Here’s your opportunity to walk among some giants, the grand remnants of a vast native forest which once covered the area entirely.
And stars too… yes, local celebrities for sure, but these ones are in the sky, the twinklers that city-dwellers might not see too often. The town is the start of the Starlight Highway to Lake Tekapo, and the world renowned Dark Sky Reserve. Come evening time, be sure to take a glance or two skyward to see them put on quite a show.
That farming heart
And here you’ve found a classic New Zealand spot with agriculture at its core. However you might have arrived, your travels will have been flanked by farmland. It’s impossible to miss Geraldine’s wonderful farming heart.
And it’s those farming roots that provide your chance to find, right here in the town, the homes of some of New Zealand’s famous, classic and much loved food treasures.
Talbot Forest Cheese, named after that mighty forest just out of town, creates a selection of excellent locally produced cheeses. Head to its Geraldine home (yes, that would be on Talbot Street), and learn more about this specialist cheesemaking operation.
Right next door… well that would be Barker’s of Geraldine. For fans of colour, this stop is a multicolour wonder. On offer here is a superb range of cordials, shrubs, syrups, jams and chutneys fill of rainbows of home grown and local produce.
And that’s not all. You’ll also be sure to find some delightful cafes and stores to fill the spot, and pick up some provisions for on the move. Thanks Geraldine, and your lovely artisans and eateries. You’re a perfect spot for a traveller in southern parts to pop into.
Our Geraldine inspiration
Geraldine will captivate you in many different ways. If you’ve picked up some of that special local cheese, here’s a Geraldine combo that we think is ideal when you’re on the move… fabulous Talbot Forest cumin spiced gouda and Anathoth relish, atop Bonnie Oats Canterbury linseed crackers. Local treasures indeed. Simple, but certainly tasty!
And for more….
To find more on The FoodPath NZ’s handpicked eateries and artisans, for our collection of spot on New Zealand food moments, including in Geraldine and more through Canterbury, download our New Zealand food trail guides app here.