Timaru - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Timaru

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Timaru, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Timaru and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Timaru, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Timaru for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Timaru

Timaru is a city located in the southern Canterbury region of the South Island in New Zealand. It sits on the east coast of the island and has a population of approximately 29,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and gardens, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage. It is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and skiing. Timaru is easily accessible by road and is approximately two hours' drive from Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island.

What to visit in Timaru

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Timaru, New Zealand: 1. Caroline Bay: Caroline Bay is Timaru's most popular and scenic beach. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sea. Visitors can walk on the beach, go for a swim, have a picnic, or enjoy water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There is also a playground for kids and various food and drink options nearby.
2. South Canterbury Museum: The South Canterbury Museum is home to many interesting artifacts from the region's past. Exhibits include displays on Maori and early European settlers, natural history, and local art. The museum is free to enter and suitable for all ages.
3. Timaru Botanic Gardens: The Timaru Botanic Gardens is a beautiful green space that is home to a wide variety of plants and trees. Walk through the gardens and enjoy the colorful flowers, old trees, and peaceful surroundings. There is also a playground for children and a café for refreshments.
4. Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre: The Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre is a unique and fascinating heritage attraction. Here, visitors can learn about Maori culture and view ancient rock art created by the Maori people over a thousand years ago. Guided tours are available, and visitors can also participate in traditional Maori activities and workshops.
5. Aigantighe Art Gallery: The Aigantighe Art Gallery is a public art gallery that houses a large collection of New Zealand and international art. The building is also of historic significance, as it was built in 1908 as a private home. Visitors can admire the art on display and learn about the history of the gallery and its collections. The gardens surrounding the gallery are also worth exploring.
6. Little Blue Penguin Colony: Visitors can catch a glimpse of the world's smallest penguin, the Little Blue Penguin, at Timaru's colony. The colony offers tours in the evening when the penguins return from their day's feeding, and visitors can watch them making their way back to their burrows on the beach. Overall, Timaru has something for everyone, from history and culture to nature and art.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Timaru.

When to go on holiday to Timaru

The best time to visit Timaru is during the summer months, which are from December to February. During this time, the weather is warm with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach fun. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season, so there may be higher crowds and prices. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting in the autumn or spring (March to May or September to November), when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds have thinned out. Winter (June to August) is also an option if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, as there are nearby ski fields that offer fantastic winter sports experiences.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Timaru

There are a few ways to get to Timaru, New Zealand: 1. By air: The nearest airport is Timaru (Richard Pearse Airport), which is served by regular flights from Christchurch and Wellington.
2. By car: Timaru is easily accessible by road. From Christchurch, it is roughly a 2-hour drive south on State Highway 1.
3. By bus: Intercity and Naked Bus both offer daily services to Timaru from cities throughout New Zealand.
4. By train: There is no direct train service to Timaru, but the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch stops at nearby stations (such as Ashburton) and can be a scenic way to get to the area.
Overall, the best mode of transportation to Timaru depends on your location, budget, and travel preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Timaru, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Timaru

Sure, here are some typical foods of Timaru, New Zealand and their short descriptions: 1. Timaru's famous seafood chowder: This hearty soup is based on a creamy seafood broth that is filled with mussels, prawns, squid and other seafood. It is typically served with crusty bread on the side.
2. Blue cod: Blue cod is a type of fish that is found in the waters around New Zealand. It has a firm, white flesh that is moist and tender when cooked. In Timaru, blue cod is often crumbed and served with chips and salad.
3. South Canterbury lamb: South Canterbury lamb is known for its succulent and tender meat. It is often roasted or grilled and served with seasonal vegetables.
4. Pavlova: Pavlova is a dessert that is made from a crispy meringue shell that is filled with whipped cream and topped with fresh fruits such as kiwifruit, strawberries and passionfruit. It is a quintessential New Zealand dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
5. Hokey Pokey ice cream: Hokey Pokey ice cream is a classic New Zealand flavour that comprises of vanilla ice cream, mixed with small, crunchy pieces of toffee. It is a favourite among the locals and can be found in many ice cream shops in Timaru.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Timaru an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in New Zealand, Timaru is generally considered to be a more affordable destination. However, prices for accommodation, dining, and activities can vary depending on the time of year you're visiting and the level of luxury you're looking for. In general, prices in Timaru are relatively reasonable, and travelers should be able to find options to fit a range of budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Timaru

Timaru is a small city in the South Island of New Zealand, and there are several areas where you can find accommodation for your trip. If you prefer to stay close to Timaru's beach and harbor, Caroline Bay is the best area to stay. This area offers several accommodation options like hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. If you want to stay in an area with a lively atmosphere and many dining and entertainment options, the Central Business District is a great option. Here you can find a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and budget-friendly hostels. Alternatively, if you want a more peaceful and quiet location, you can opt to stay in the suburbs like Gleniti, Marchwiel or Highfield. These areas are a little away from the Central Business District but offer several accommodation options like motels and bed and breakfasts, along with green spaces and parks for a more peaceful stay.
You can check hotel prices at Timaru here:
Booking.com

Is Timaru a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Timaru is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low and the locals are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, like any destination, it's important to exercise common sense and take precautions to stay safe while traveling. This includes keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding petty crime hotspots, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Additionally, it's a good idea to research any potential dangers or safety concerns specific to Timaru before you travel.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Timaru.

What type of travelers will enjoy Timaru the most?

Timaru, New Zealand can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. It has a range of activities and attractions that can appeal to everyone, but the experience might vary depending on what one is looking for. Couples can enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Caroline Bay, where they can have a picnic, watch the sunset or sunrise and take a stroll along the beach. They can also visit the Maori Rock Art site together or enjoy a wine tasting tour of Timaru's vineyards.
Young people looking for fun can explore the local nightlife scene and attend events hosted by the town, such as the South Canterbury Food & Wine Festival. They can also participate in water sports activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Families can have a great time in Timaru, with plenty of family-friendly activities such as visiting the Southern Wildflower Orchards, going to the amusement park and playgrounds in the area, and learning about marine life at the aquarium.
In conclusion, Timaru, New Zealand is a destination that can satisfy all types of travelers.

How to get around Timaru

In Timaru, one can move around by public transportation, such as buses or taxis. However, the area is also very walkable, so visitors may choose to explore the city on foot. Additionally, renting a car is a great option for those looking to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

What to see around Timaru

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Timaru, New Zealand: 1. Tekapo Springs: Located about an hour and a half drive from Timaru, Tekapo Springs is a natural hot springs complex offering year-round activities including ice-skating, snow tubing, stargazing, and relaxing in the hot pools.
2. Oamaru: A charming Victorian town located a little over an hour's drive from Timaru, Oamaru offers plenty of historic buildings, unique shops and galleries, botanical gardens, and outdoor activities.
3. Peel Forest: Located approximately an hour's drive from Timaru, Peel Forest is an unspoiled, tranquil area perfect for hiking, horseback riding, or simply relaxing amid the stunning natural beauty.
4. Caroline Bay: Located right in Timaru, Caroline Bay is a fantastic destination for a day at the beach. The bay is home to the iconic Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a playground, a paddling pool, and many picnic areas.
5. Mount Dobson: Located about an hour and a half drive from Timaru, Mount Dobson offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The mountain is also a popular ski resort during the winter months.
Hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about New Zealand you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.