Timaru Travel Guide
Timaru accommodation, Timaru activities and attractions, Timaru maps, transportation to and around Timaru - the ALL NEW Jasons Timaru Destination Travel Guide is your complete visitor guide for Timaru.
The busy coastal port and holiday resort of Timaru is the gateway to the stunning mountains, lakes and rivers of central and south
Canterbury. Graced with elegant Victorian and Edwardian architecture and beautiful gardens, Timaru's focal point is Caroline Bay. This lovely beach is bordered by a reserve with children's playgrounds, gardens, tennis courts, an aviary, a skating rink and plenty of carparking. Cafes and restaurants at the town's striking piazza take full advantage of the stunning views that stretch across Caroline Bay to the snow-capped mountains beyond.
Timaru has several heritage buildings of note, including the unique Landed Services Building, or you can discover the history of the whalers and early settlers at the
South Canterbury Museum. Timaru's Botanic Garden is known for its superb rose collection and makes a pleasant spot for a wander. Art lovers can browse around
Aigantighe Art Gallery and enjoy a stroll in the gallery's sculpture garden. For adventure seekers, Timaru offers horse riding, mountain biking, golf and fishing. In winter, there are four skifields within easy reach - try heli-skiing or glacier skiing for something a little different. Both Timaru and
Waimate districts are famous for their Maori rock art and also have some beautiful private gardens to tour.