PLAN YOUR TRIP
If you are planning on using this route, we have some useful information that will help you plan your trip to ensure you can get the most from this authentic Kiwi experience.
The formed roads and tracks have not been specifically engineered and are not maintained to meet standards for public access. This means that parts of the road can be hazardous and occasionally we will not be able to signpost or mark all the hazards individually. So we urge that the utmost care is taken when travelling through the road, pay particular attention to narrowing roads, blind corners and ensure you always pull over when it is safe to do so being cautious that your vehicle is entirely off the road to allow others to pass.
As Rainbow Station is surrounded by a backdrop of mountain ranges, as beautiful as these are, they also mean that the weather can change very suddenly and without warning. Strong winds, heavy rain and flooding of the river can occur very quickly. It is important to check the weather forecast for your intended date of travel to ensure you get to experience the best that Rainbow Station has to offer. Check the weather here.
There is no mobile phone coverage and breakdown services may not operate in a private area. While not having mobile phone coverage might be considered a good thing, it also means that it can be difficult to get assistance should you need it. Be sure to make the necessary arrangements prior to travelling. We recommend to bring a first-aid kit, plenty of drinking water, a spare tyre and to ensure your tyre pressure is correct.
We recommend the use of high clearance Four Wheel Drive (4WD) or All Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles. Should you have any questions in regards to whether your vehicle may be suitable please contact us. We can provide advice based on current road conditions, however all travel is taken at your own risk, be sure to check that your Insurance covers you.
High clearance caravans and trailers are welcomed. No requirement to request permission.
Your journey will take approximately 4 hours from St Arnaud to Hanmer and the same going back.
During Seasonal Access, gates are open 7 am – 7 pm
The Toll Gate is located at the Old Accommodation House, which is located approximately halfway through Rainbow Station. For location see: Google Map
We love dogs! Unfortunately, our stock does not feel the same way. As the floors of the Wairau, Rainbow Valleys are farmed, please ensure that your dog stays in your vehicle as you pass through Rainbow Station (Between State Highway 63 (northern end) and the Boundary Gate with Molesworth (southern end)). Dogs must stay in vehicles at all times.
Leave gates as you find them!
Camping is only permitted at Department of Conservation huts/campsites:
For camping at the above locations, please pay DOC.
Please note, no outdoor fires due to the fire risk.
Please respect our Stock, Property including our bees and other road users. Rainbow Station is not a public area and any use to the public is a revocable privilege granted by the Leaseholder.
For further information on the Rainbow Road area, please see Department of Conservation webpage.
The Department of Conservation, Hanmer to St Arnaud Road via Rainbow Station brochure is available.
Most importantly enjoy your trip and share your experience with us by tagging @RainbowStationNZ on Instagram and Facebook.