Timaru

Timaru is one of the South Island’s major ports and is located halfway between Christchurch and Dunedin. Among Timaru’s leading attractions and activities are The South Canterbury Museum, the comprehensive Aigantighe Art Gallery and the DB Mainland Brewery. At least 5 major South Island ski fields are all within easy reach from Timaru and the district is bordered by two major rivers which offer excellent swimming and fishing for trout and salmon. The rural surroundings blend perfectly with Timaru’s gardens, parkland and floral gardens which complement the Edwardian architecture.  Hire a bus in Timaru to enjoy all this region has to offer.

Wander about the unique volcanic bluestone buildings in town or enjoy a coffee alfresco on the paved courtyards. Spend some time shopping in the boutique stores, malls and shopping centres. One of the most popular attractions in Timaru is the beautiful beachside settlement of Carolyn Bay. The safe, sandy beach, playgrounds and picnic areas provide the perfect place to relax and unwind. Cafes and restaurants line the shore and during the Christmas break carnivals and fairgrounds fill the summer calendar.

The farmers market held every Sunday showcases the local produce, art & craft specialists. Places to stay in Timaru caters for a range of different styles and budgets with holiday parks, backpackers, motels and hotels catering for the budget conscious and elegant bed and breakfasts providing a luxurious stay with all the trimmings. You can visit the Maori Rock Art Centre, go fly fishing, horse riding, 4 x4 adventures, rock climbing, deep sea fishing, surfcasting and white water rafting. Mountain biking and walking trails are available for self guided tours.  Make some time to enjoy the natural beauty Timaru has to offer with a walk through the Botanic Gardens and the Trevor Griffiths Rose Gallery.

The beauty of Timaru is it is central to everything and the perfect base for your next holiday. Visit the charming village of Geraldine for homemade chocolates, cheese, fruit products and preserves. Explore the food and wine trails or the beautiful Talbot or Peel Forest. Further inland there are a variety of lakes which come alive in the summer offering activities like sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. Oamaru is just over an hour’s bus drive away and worth the drive to see the blue penguins make their way ashore at night. The small town of Temuka has long been famous for its pottery but it also has a lot to offer including swimming, fishing and camping along the Opihi River. Your stay in Timaru on New Zealand’s south island should also include future plans to visit the adrenalin adventure capital of Queenstown.