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

Caroline Bay Beach

9.0/10 (155 reviews)
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Caroline Bay Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Timaru Port.
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Where to stay in Timaru

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

Timaru Central

While visiting Timaru Central, you might make a stop by sights like South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre.

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.

Maori Hill

While visiting Maori Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Ashbury Park and Caroline Bay Beach.

Seaview

Seaview might not have many top sights, but South Canterbury Museum and Caroline Bay Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A large church with two domes and a central dome, surrounded by scaffolding.
Photo by Dan Koczur
Open Photo by Dan Koczur

Parkside

While Parkside isn't home to many top sights, South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre 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 travelers 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 neighborhoods, Maori Hill is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while Timaru Central is 0.32 kilometers away from the city center 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 traveling 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 neighborhoods, 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.