Things to do in Timaru

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal city with a beach, port, and industrial area.
A pebbled beach with driftwood and a calm sea at sunset.
A white church with a tall steeple and a clock tower, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
A coastal town with a lighthouse, beach, and residential area.
A white church with a tall steeple and a clock tower.
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What to do in Timaru

Stay near popular Timaru attractions

Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden

9.0/10 (52 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Timaru with a visit to Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden. Visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its bars.
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Where to stay in Timaru

Find the best Timaru areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A coastal city with a beach, a port with ships, and industrial buildings.

Timaru Central

If you're spending some time in Timaru Central, South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre are top sights worth seeing.

Seaview

Though Seaview may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Aigantighe Art Gallery and South Canterbury Museum.

Maori Hill

While visiting Maori Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Aigantighe Art Gallery and Ashbury Park.

A garden with a fountain, benches, and a statue.
Photo by Paolo Corrales
Open Photo by Paolo Corrales

Timaru Port

While visiting Timaru Port, you might make a stop by sights like Caroline Bay Beach and Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden.

West End

While West End isn't home to many top sights, Aigantighe Art Gallery and South Canterbury Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Frequently asked questions

Is Timaru worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are many interesting things to do in Timaru. Be sure to experience the area's blend of cool attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Timaru?
Once you've checked off key attractions like Caroline Bay Beach and South Canterbury Museum, spend some time experiencing Timaru's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Timaru?
You can't go home without exploring Caroline Bay Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Timaru.
Is three days enough to stay in Timaru?
Three days in Timaru is plenty of time to visit the city's major attractions. Many travellers stay for two days on average. Caroline Bay Beach, South Canterbury Museum and DB Brewery are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Fairlie.
Is Timaru a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Timaru. Several key attractions, such as Caroline Bay Beach and South Canterbury Museum, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Timaru's best neighbourhoods, Maori Hill is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Timaru Central is 0.32 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Timaru with kids?
Deciding what to do in Timaru with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights to keep them happy here.

What to do in Timaru for adults?
DB Brewery is one of the main things to do in Timaru. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Timaru?
In Timaru, Caroline Bay Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Timaru.