Timaru offers visitors a mix of scenic beauty, history, and outdoor activities. Caroline Bay, a popular spot, is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing on its sandy beach. Nearby, you can explore the Timaru Botanic Gardens, which boast a variety of plant species and peaceful walking paths. For history enthusiasts, the South Canterbury Museum provides insights into the region's past, including Maori culture and early European settlement. Art lovers will appreciate the Aigantighe Art Gallery, featuring local and international works. If you're keen on nature, a trip to the Centennial Park for hiking or biking is a must.
Caroline Bay
Caroline Bay is a beautiful sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family picnics. The area also features a vibrant promenade, playgrounds, and seasonal events like the popular Caroline Bay Carnival during summer.
South Canterbury Museum
The South Canterbury Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the natural history and cultural heritage of the region, including Maori artifacts and early European settler memorabilia. Visitors can also explore interactive displays and collections that showcase the area's geology, wildlife, and social history.
Timaru Botanic Gardens
The Timaru Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with a wide range of beautiful plants, including native and exotic species, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, scenic walking paths, and picturesque ponds throughout the gardens.
Aigantighe Art Gallery
Aigantighe Art Gallery is one of New Zealand's finest regional art museums, showcasing a diverse collection of local, national, and international artworks. Housed in a historic 1908 mansion, the gallery offers a blend of contemporary and traditional exhibitions, making it a cultural highlight for visitors.
Caroline Bay Trust Aoraki Centre (CBay)
The Caroline Bay Trust Aoraki Centre (CBay) is a state-of-the-art aquatic and fitness facility featuring a large swimming pool complex, hydroslides, and a lazy river, perfect for all ages. Visitors can also enjoy the fitness gym, spa, and wellness services, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation.
Landing Services Building
The Landing Services Building in Timaru is a historic site that once served as a key hub for importing and exporting goods in the 19th century. Today, it's home to a variety of businesses and offers visitors a glimpse into Timaru's maritime and commercial heritage.
Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre
The Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre offers a unique insight into the ancient rock art created by the local Ngāi Tahu Māori people. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and take guided tours to learn about the history, culture, and significance of these fascinating artworks.
Penguins
Timaru's Caroline Bay is home to a colony of the world's smallest penguin - The Little Blue Penguin/Kororā. Over the summer months (October - March) view them returning from a day's fishing along Marine Parade at the southern end of Caroline Bay. It's worth putting the kids to bed late. This is a free activity.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park, also known as the Scenic Reserve, is a beautiful spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering walking and biking trails through lush forested areas and alongside a tranquil stream. It's a great place for picnics and family outings, with playgrounds, open spaces, and even a pond for feeding ducks.