Rakaia is the Salmon capital of New Zealand with the river yielding salmon and trout. Recreational rafting, kayaking, jetboating, horse trekking, rock-hounding, and bird watching are also attractive activities on this accessible river. during the fishing season between October and April, anglers can be seen lining the river mouth 20 kilometers east of the town. The Rakaia Salmon Fishing Competition held at the end of  February is extremely popular. Rakaia is renowned for its fertile, alluvial soil, either washed or blown down the plains. Horticulture and arable farming enjoy ideal conditions with sheep, deer (and more recently) dairy farms are established throughout the area. A rural servicing town, Rakaia has a growing industrial commercial base with innovative engineering firms specialising in agricultural and marine products. Gardening – from the backyard hobby to the landscaped estates – is a popular pastime and between spring and autumn, the area is ablaze of colour. Rakaia is abounding with creative and talented people: artisans creating pottery, floral art, oil and watercolours,  homespun knitwear – all with a unique, local flair. Rakaia is rich in sporting and social amenities including a Sports Domain, equestrian course, swimming pool, golf course, squash and tennis courts, well-appointed bowling greens, Primary School, Community Centre Library, Playcentre, Toy Library, Medical Centre, Fire Station, several Churches and two popular pubs. The town has good shopping facilities and an increasing number of eating places such as fish n’ chips, Indian and an Azteca Taco mobile van. Rakaia is known for its friendly people who make an extra effort to make newcomers welcome. Many voluntary social and sporting groups thrive on making the community more interesting.

These groups all function on volunteer manpower with all hands to the deck. Making yourself known and putting your hand up to assist is the best way to enjoy your new move to this piece of paradise.