Why the Timaru District should be on your summer road trip list
Looking for the best places to stop on an upcoming South Island road trip? One place you should add is the Timaru District. Stunning coastlines, lush native forest, outdoor adventures, glorious food and drink, and so much more!
The Timaru District is conveniently located on State Highway 1, approximately 2 hours from both Christchurch and Dunedin, and the road trip bucket list location of Mackenzie with the Lake Tekapo/Takapō as little as an hour away and Aoraki/Mount Cook around 2 hours.
The Timaru District comprises several distinct destinations, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. In Timaru City, you can indulge in breathtaking coastal walks, enjoy family-friendly Caroline Bay, admire stunning heritage buildings, immerse yourself in art and culture, and savour exquisite dining experiences and bars.
Dashing Rocks, Timaru
Travelling through the district, you'll encounter Temuka, renowned as the home of world-famous Temuka Pottery. Pleasant Point boasts a beloved vintage steam train museum, while the boutique town of Geraldine entices visitors with its delectable culinary offerings, delightful beverage experiences, vintage museums, enchanting bush walks, and charming shops and art galleries.
Peel Forest beckons adventurers with walks suitable for all skill levels, leading through lush native forests adorned with towering trees and cascading waterfalls. And as you journey to the top of the vast and rugged Rangitata River Valley, you'll discover Mesopotamia, a truly unique destination.
Emily Falls, Peel Forest
What to do?
Whether you are after tours, or you want to explore the area yourself, the Timaru District features a huge number of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Swimming at Caroline Bay
The Timaru District features some truly unique experiences that you can’t do anywhere else including the Te Ana Māori Rock Art, The Raptor Experience and viewing the world’s smallest penguins, the kororā. There are fantastic walking and biking trails, farmyard experiences, museums galore, the iconic Caroline Bay, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest playground CPlay and so much more!
Te Ana Māori Rock Art, Timaru
A must do walk is Little Mount Peel/Huatekerekere. Regarded as one of the best day walks in Canterbury, Little Mount Peel is a big hike uphil, but the views make it all worthwhile. The track is approximately 10kms and takes approximately 7-9 hours depending on the route you take and your fitness. It’s compulsary to get a photo at the top. Make sure you tag @welovetimaru in your posts.
Little Mount Peel/Huatekerekere, Peel Forest
Looking for some more leisure time? Hit one of our 8 scenic golf courses, explore the local and boutique shops for a bit of retail therapy, or simply sit back and enjoy the views. We have a great range of restaurants and cafes to indulge on our fresh and local produce.
Where to stay?
Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family or a group of friends there are plenty of options.
If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, check out one of our fantastic holiday parks. The Timaru Top 10 Holiday Park is situated in the heart of Timaru, close to Caroline Bay and the CBD, or a great one for the kids is the Orari Farmyard Holiday Park with playgrounds, fire pits, a swimming pool and farmyard animals.
If you are after a bit of luxury or more of a B&B style accommodation, we recommend Ngā Whare Mānatu set among Geraldine’s native surroundings or The Vicarage of Geraldine in the heart of Geraldine with its historical charm.
Ngā Whare Mānatu, Geraldine
No matter what your interests are, the Timaru District is a great destination for a summer road trip. It’s all here with stunning scenery, diverse attractions, and delicious food and drink, the Timaru District has something to offer everyone.