Things to do in Timaru

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Timaru

Types of activities

Timaru travel guide

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.

Landscape Scenery of Caroline Bay Beach Timaru, South Island New Zealand; During Morning Time

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What to do in Timaru

Popular places to visit

Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden

5/5(2 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.

South Canterbury Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at South Canterbury Museum during your trip to Timaru. Visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its bars.

Caroline Bay Beach

4.5/5(4 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Caroline Bay Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Timaru Port.

Ashbury Park

Explore the great outdoors at Ashbury Park, a lovely green space in Timaru.

Dashing Rocks Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Dashing Rocks Beach during your trip to Timaru?

DB Brewery

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in DB Brewery during your travels in Timaru. Visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its bars.

Botanic Gardens

5/5(2 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Timaru with a trip to Botanic Gardens. Visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its bars.

Washdyke Lagoon Wildlife Refuge

Explore the great outdoors at Washdyke Lagoon Wildlife Refuge, a lovely green space in Timaru.

Timaru Lighthouse

Learn about the local history of Timaru when you spend time at Timaru Lighthouse.

Where to stay in Timaru

Find the best Timaru areas for the activities you enjoy most.

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.

Washdyke

While visiting Washdyke, you might make a stop by sights like DB Brewery and Washdyke Lagoon Wildlife Refuge.

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Maori Hill

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

West End

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

Waimataitai

While visiting Waimataitai, you might make a stop by sights like Ashbury Park and Dashing Rocks Beach.

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.

Alpaca Petting Tour; Timaru District

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.