Timaru, in the South Island, is an excellent spot to spend the night driving from Dunedin to Christchurch. It is a coastal city in the southern Canterbury Region of New Zealand. There are several things to do in Timaru. This beautiful town offers many exploration opportunities in its streets and along the shore, including a fantastic museum and art gallery, lovely parks, and strolls along the beach. Walk to the Marine Parade at dusk to observe the juvenile blue penguins returning to their burrows.
Things To Do In Timaru
Timaru, a scenic coastal city in New Zealand, offers many fun things to do. We have curated a list of things to do in Timaru for your next vacation:
1. Visit the South Canterbury Museum
Image Credit: Samuel Mann for Wikimedia Commons
The South Canterbury Museum, a must-see in Timaru, features a variety of fascinating artefacts, from fashion to fossils. Learn about the South Canterbury area’s history, culture, and natural features by exploring local tales. Visit the Heritage Theatre to see a local historical video, browse the research area’s archives, and stroll through the always-changing selection of exhibitions. The collection and programming of the South Canterbury Museum are centred on the South Canterbury area. The collections include natural history specimens, Maori artefacts, European settlement, contemporary social history, and documented history.
Address: 70 Perth Street, Timaru 7910, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: September to February
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2. Watch the Little Blue Penguins at Caroline Bay
One of the best things to do in Timaru is to watch the little blue penguins return to their burrows at Caroline Bay. Timaru offers one of the best free viewings of little blue penguins in New Zealand, with street lights making it easy to see. Watch the penguins from Marine Parade, but stay behind the fenced-off area and don’t use flash photography or shine lights at the penguins. Penguins are some of the most exciting wildlife to observe in New Zealand. There are around six species of penguins in New Zealand, with the most common being the little blue penguin and one of the rarest being the Fiordland crested penguin. Though primarily in the South Island, penguin sightings have been reported across New Zealand.
Address: Caroline Bay, Timaru 7910, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: October to February
3. Walk the South Beach Coastal Track
Stroll along the South Beach Coastal Track and take in the fantastic views of the town, the harbour, and Caroline Bay. Start at Patiti Point’s parking lot. This broad, well-kept promenade has grown up along the edge of the pebbly shore. It follows the coast northward, heading towards Timaru Harbour. Currently, the path terminates at Stuart Street and is relatively straightforward. This track is a good fit for cycling. The strange surfer and the sea on one side provide visual interest. On one side, natural vegetation will provide cover from the large storage shed. This trek may continue the Patiti Point hike, one of Timaru’s best things to do. Going northward toward the harbour’s eastern breakwater expansion is also feasible. Yachts, ships, and fishing boats are frequently visible.
Address: Starts at Marine Parade, Timaru 7910, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: September to May
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4. Take the kids to Famlan Farm Park
Famlan is an animal farm park with various animals that love people and are fed. Famlan Farm Park offers the perfect Kiwi farm experience for those with young children or whether you’re just an animal lover. There is no judgment here. Despite being on a small, authentic local farm, you will have much to do for hours because there are so many animals to get to know. Get some lunch and enjoy interacting with goats, rabbits, ponies, alpacas, pigs, and more! They have an assortment of “gumboots” to wear. Some of the animals at Famlan include Wessex saddleback pigs, Kunekune pigs, alpaca, sheep and lambs, chickens, ducks, peacocks, goats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and ponies.
Address: 72 Mount Horrible Road, RD4, Timaru 7974, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: September to February
5. Visit the York Street Gallery of Fine Art
The York Street Gallery of Fine Art in Timaru is a place to visit. Debbie Templeton Page, who owns the gallery, is dedicated to showcasing the talents of New Zealand artists. Nor is she a sculptor herself. Her artwork can be seen throughout the country. When you wander through the gallery, you’ll be captivated by pieces from painters like AA Deans, Llew Summers and Mary Horn. Even if you’ve been before, it’s worth revisiting the York Street Gallery of Fine Art as they have year-round exhibitions. Furthermore, the York Street Gallery routinely works with local artists and communities to provide workshops and special events that promote a greater appreciation for the arts.
Address: 21 York Street, Timaru 7910, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
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6. Explore Centennial Park by foot or bike
The locals often call Centennial Park “the Scenic Reserve,” a spot to connect with nature that covers 65 hectares. It’s a place for jogging, biking and strolling. Anglers and paddlers enjoy spending time on the park’s lake, while families can take advantage of the two BBQ areas and a playground for children. These amenities make it a fantastic destination for a family day out. If you’re up for a more significant challenge, Centennial Park offers options, like walking along one of its two pathways. The upper trail provides difficulty, whereas the lower one is easier to navigate. Whether looking for a relaxing picnic, an active day in nature, or a peaceful spot to unwind, Centennial Park offers something for everyone.
Address: Otipua Road, Timaru 7910, New Zealand
Best Time to Visit: September to May
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Now that you have a list of activities in and around Timaru, it’s time to start planning an exciting trip to New Zealand. Remember to tell others about your experiences when you come back. You have to make an effort to go to these locations so that you may enjoy a thrilling holiday that will stick in your memory.
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Cover Image Credit: Kimberley Collins for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Timaru
What are the main attractions to see in Timaru?
Timaru has a range of attractions for visitors, such as Caroline Bay, for its sandy beach and the opportunity to spot little blue penguins. The South Canterbury Museum offers insights into the area's history, while Centennial Park is ideal for activities like walking and having a picnic. Art lovers can explore the York Street Gallery of Fine Art, and beer enthusiasts can enjoy an experience at the DB Draught Brewery.
What activities can you do in Timaru?
Timaru is perfect for nature lovers, with walks like the South Beach Coastal Track offering breathtaking ocean views. Centennial Park provides options for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. For a day out, consider a trip to Mount Isobel near Hanmer Springs for fantastic hiking with panoramic vistas.
When is the optimal time to visit Timaru?
While Timaru welcomes visitors year-round, the best time to visit is spring through autumn (September to May). During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for fun to explore attractions and relax on Caroline Bay's beachfront.
Are there activities for families in Timaru?
Absolutely! Timaru is a family destination with a variety of options for all ages. Caroline Bay is a great choice for a family outing, offering swimming spots and playgrounds. Famlan Farm Park provides another opportunity for children to interact with farm animals. You can also explore exhibits at the South Canterbury Museum catering to kids and adults.
What experiences can you enjoy in Timaru?
For a one-of-a-kind experience in Timaru, you should check out Hector Blacks, a bar known for its unique vibe. Wildlife lovers can glimpse penguins returning to their nests at dusk on Caroline Bay. Additionally, a tour of the DB Draught Brewery gives you an inside look at one of New Zealand's breweries.
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