Welcome to River Ridge, peaceful Catlins accommodation set on 15 acres beside the beautiful Catlins River and surrounded by native forest, birdlife, and stunning natural scenery. Located in the heart of The Catlins, River Ridge offers accommodation, weddings, conferences, retreats, camping, and group stays in one unforgettable destination.
Whether you are planning a relaxing getaway, family reunion, wedding celebration, sports group, wellness retreat, conference, or road trip through the lower South Island, River Ridge provides the perfect place to reconnect with nature, unwind, and create lasting memories.
The Catlins Accommodation for Couples, Families & Groups
River Ridge offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for couples, families, groups, corporate travellers, backpackers, campers, and wedding guests. The property can accommodate up to 57 guests during summer and 45 guests during winter.
Rooms & Studios
Budget Double Room
Comfortable and affordable accommodation with a double bed, shared kitchen and bathroom facilities, plus fresh linen and towels provided.
Economy Quadruple Room
Ideal for families or small groups, featuring a single bed, double bed, bunk bed, shared facilities, and a balcony overlooking the gardens.
Accessible Studios
Spacious disability-access studios featuring private bathrooms, kitchen facilities, comfortable bedding, and peaceful garden views.
Two Bedroom Apartments
Large self-contained apartments with lounge areas, full kitchens, private bathrooms, and space for up to 10 guests.
Group Accommodation & Camping in The Catlins
Transportable Huts
Available seasonally during summer, these cosy huts include queen beds and heating with nearby shared bathroom facilities.
Camp & Campervan Sites
Enjoy relaxed camping surrounded by nature with powered campervan sites, tent sites, camp kitchen facilities, laundry, and separate bathroom amenities.
River Ridge is also ideal for group accommodation in The Catlins, offering flexible options for school groups, sports teams, wedding guests, retreats, and family gatherings.
Wedding Venue & Event Accommodation in The Catlins
River Ridge is one of the most unique wedding venues in The Catlins, offering stunning outdoor ceremony locations, spacious indoor facilities, and on-site accommodation for guests.
Wedding Venue Features
- Outdoor ceremony locations beside the river and native forest
- Function centre seating for up to 130 guests
- Fully licensed venue
- Outdoor bar area for larger events
- On-site accommodation for wedding guests
- Exclusive venue hire available
River Ridge also hosts:
- Conferences
- Corporate retreats
- Team-building events
- Wellness retreats
- Family reunions
- Birthday celebrations
- Private functions
Corporate Events & Conferences in The Catlins
River Ridge combines professional facilities with a peaceful natural environment, making it ideal for conferences, strategy sessions, and team retreats.
Conference Facilities
- Seating for up to 130 guests
- Flexible room layouts
- TV and presentation facilities
- Sound system and microphone
- Whiteboard facilities
- High-speed WiFi
- Coffee and tea facilities
- Full bar service or BYO licence options
- Airport transfers available from Dunedin and Invercargill
Activities & Experiences at River Ridge
There’s something for everyone at River Ridge, with activities designed for relaxation, adventure, and team connection.
On-Site Activities
- Kayak hire
- Fishing rod hire
- Cycle hire
- Volleyball
- Badminton
- Lawn games
- Water slide
- Archery
- Axe throwing
- Yoga and Pilates sessions
- Functional fitness sessions
- Quiz nights
- Team-building activities
Tastings & Catering
Enjoy wine, gin, and whiskey tastings along with breakfast packs, lunches, dinner packs, and catering options for groups and events.
Farm Tours & Catlins Experiences
Three Rocks Farm Tour
Experience authentic high-country farming with a guided tour through one of the region’s impressive sheep and beef farming properties.
Guided Farm Walks
Explore the landscape, native scenery, and rural lifestyle of The Catlins with guided walks across the property.
Explore The Catlins from Your River Ridge Accommodation
River Ridge is perfectly positioned for exploring The Catlins and wider Southland region, known for its waterfalls, beaches, wildlife, native forests, and scenic coastal drives. Guests can easily visit local attractions, walking tracks, surf beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing areas while enjoying peaceful accommodation surrounded by nature.
For more ideas on places to visit and things to do nearby, view our Southland Travel Guide.
Book Direct with River Ridge The Catlins
Plan your wedding, conference, group getaway, or relaxing Catlins escape and book direct with River Ridge for the best rates and personalised service.
FAQs About River Ridge The Catlins
What accommodation options are available at River Ridge?
River Ridge offers studios, apartments, group rooms, transportable huts, camping sites, and powered campervan sites suitable for couples, families, groups, and corporate travellers.
Is River Ridge suitable for group accommodation?
Yes, River Ridge is ideal for group accommodation in The Catlins, including sports teams, school groups, retreats, wedding guests, and family gatherings.
Can River Ridge host weddings and events?
Yes, River Ridge offers a fully licensed wedding and event venue with outdoor ceremony areas, a function centre for up to 130 guests, and on-site accommodation.
Does River Ridge offer conference facilities?
Yes, River Ridge provides conference and corporate event facilities including WiFi, presentation equipment, flexible seating layouts, and catering options.
Is camping available at River Ridge?
Yes, River Ridge offers tent sites and powered campervan sites with shared kitchen, laundry, and bathroom facilities.
Are there activities available on-site?
Guests can enjoy activities including kayaking, fishing, cycling, volleyball, lawn games, archery, yoga sessions, and guided farm experiences.
Where is River Ridge located?
River Ridge is located in the heart of The Catlins beside the Catlins River, surrounded by native forest and close to popular Southland attractions.
Is River Ridge family friendly?
Yes, River Ridge welcomes families and offers spacious accommodation, outdoor areas, and activities suitable for all ages.
