Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Great place, very welcoming. Reception gave a map to help us plan our trip south the next day which was very useful. Oh, and within walking distance of penguin nesting across the park.
Great place, very welcoming. Reception gave a map to help us plan our trip south the next day which was very useful. Oh, and within walking distance of penguin nesting across the park.
Stephen
Reviewed October 13, 2026Reviewed October 13, 2026
perfect for our one night stay, quiet and clean. Definitely would recommend to others great location off the main road, but still close and easy to find
perfect for our one night stay, quiet and clean. Definitely would recommend to others great location off the main road, but still close and easy to find
Great service and very tidy rooms. Close to supermarket and food stores. 9 minutes from the Airport. Very convenient. Thank you to the Ashbury Park Motel staff. High recommend.
Great service and very tidy rooms. Close to supermarket and food stores. 9 minutes from the Airport. Very convenient. Thank you to the Ashbury Park Motel staff. High recommend.
Waitangi
Reviewed November 22, 2024Reviewed November 22, 2024
What a charming place! This place was more than I hoped. Beautiful styled while allowing for comfort. The surrounds are stunning and the home is delightful. I will be recommending this to friends who need a relaxing stop to recharge. We didn’t want to leave!!
What a charming place! This place was more than I hoped. Beautiful styled while allowing for comfort. The surrounds are stunning and the home is delightful. I will be recommending this to friends who need a relaxing stop to recharge. We didn’t want to leave!!
Jenny
Reviewed October 10, 2026Reviewed October 10, 2026
Timaru, nestled on the stunning Canterbury coast, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that make it an attractive stop for those travelling with children. Start your adventure at the beautiful Caroline Bay, where kids can frolic on the sandy beaches, enjoy the playground, or take a scenic ride on the miniature railway that runs along the waterfront. For a dose of nature, head to the renowned Timaru Botanic Gardens, where families can explore expansive, colourful gardens and even spot local wildlife; the gardens provide a perfect picnic spot and often host family-friendly events. The South Canterbury Museum is another highlight, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating displays that engage children of all ages, making learning both fun and memorable. For an exciting outdoor experience, consider visiting the nearby Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you can embark on family-friendly hikes or simply soak in the breathtaking alpine views. After a day of exploration, families will find comfortable accommodations in the heart of Timaru, particularly around the Caroline Bay area, which not only offers easy access to the beach but also features a variety of quality hotels known for their attentive service and family-focused amenities. With spacious rooms and convenient dining options nearby, your family can relax and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this charming coastal town.
Find the best family friendly hotels in Timaru
For families visiting Timaru, these hotels provide a welcoming atmosphere with an array of amenities designed to make your stay enjoyable and stress-free.
Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Families will find ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge to be a welcoming haven, featuring a remarkable review rating of 9.4. The lodge provides essential family-friendly amenities, including a kitchenette and free cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for families with infants. The option for connecting rooms adds flexibility for larger families, allowing everyone to enjoy their own space while still being close by.
Other amenities: Beyond family-centric features, travelers can take advantage of daily housekeeping and a nearby indoor pool for fun-filled family outings. The lodge also offers premium bedding for a restful night's sleep and an electric kettle for convenience. Nearby, the accommodation is well-situated to explore local attractions, ensuring plenty of family-friendly activities are within reach.
Neighborhood: Parkside
Nearby attractions: Botanical Gardens - 0.8 km, South Canterbury Museum - 1.2 km
Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Asure Ashley Motor Lodge is an excellent choice for families, earning a stellar review rating of 9.4. This lodge features kitchen facilities and free cribs, making it easy for families to settle in. The addition of breakfast options specially catered for children ensures that younger travelers start their day off right, while the garden provides a pleasant space for relaxation and play.
Other amenities: Further amenities include an electric kettle, stovetop, and microwave, allowing for easy meal prep. Guests can enjoy the convenience of self-parking at no additional cost. The lodge's comfortable atmosphere and family-friendly amenities make it a perfect home base for exploring all that Timaru has to offer.
Neighborhood: Kensington
Nearby attractions: Botanical Gardens - 0.3 km, Patiti Point - 1.2 km
Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Aspen on King Motel is a fantastic choice for families looking for comfort and convenience, with an excellent review rating of 8.8. With amenities such as a kitchenette, microwave, and a free crib for younger travelers, this hotel ensures that families have everything they need to feel at home while exploring Timaru. The playground provides a safe space for children to play, making it an ideal spot for family bonding.
Other amenities: Additional features include a garden where families can relax, and daily housekeeping to keep your space tidy. The motel also offers a private hot tub for some relaxation after a day of adventures. Guests can enjoy a furnished balcony or patio, perfect for unwinding in the evenings. With self-parking available for free, Aspen on King ensures a straightforward stay for families traveling by car.
Neighborhood: Parkside
Nearby attractions: Botanical Gardens - 0.3 km, Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre - 1.4 km
Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Ashbury Park Motel provides a wonderful family-friendly environment, with an excellent review rating of 8.6. Families will appreciate the free cribs and connecting rooms, which cater to the needs of larger groups. The presence of a microwave and stovetop allows for convenient meal preparations, ensuring that families have the flexibility to enjoy home-cooked meals during their stay.
Other amenities: In addition to its family-focused amenities, the motel features onsite parking and is located near a sandy beach, perfect for family outings. Guests can also unwind on their balcony, enjoying the coastal views. With a nearby sea and beach location, families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, making every day an adventure.
Neighborhood: Waimataitai
Nearby attractions: Ashbury Park - 0.2 km, Caroline Bay Beach - 1.3 km, Dashing Rocks Beach - 1.2 km
Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: The Grosvenor is a charming option for families visiting Timaru, with a solid review rating of 7.8. This hotel features kid-friendly amenities such as special breakfast options for children and a friendly window design to enhance safety. The daily housekeeping ensures that families can focus on enjoying their holiday without worrying about the little tasks.
Other amenities: In addition to family-friendly offerings, travelers can enjoy billiards and a nearby beach for recreational activities. Self-parking is available for free, making it easy for families to explore the area at their own pace. The mini-refrigerator in each room adds convenience for storing snacks and drinks, allowing families to maintain their routine while on holiday.
Neighborhood: Timaru Central
Nearby attractions: South Canterbury Museum - 0.5 km, Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre - 0.4 km, Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden - 1.2 km
Frequently Asked Questions
What's Timaru like for family-friendly holidays?
The welcoming destination of Timaru is a good choice if you've been thinking about a trip with your children. The walking trails and jogging trails are just a couple of things that make this the ideal place for a family holiday. Fly into Timaru (TIU-Richard Pearse), which is located 6.7 mi (10.7 km) from the city centre.
When's the best time to book a family-friendly holiday in Timaru?
The hottest months are usually February and January, with an average temperature of 7°C, while the coldest months are July and August, with an average of -3°C. The rainiest months in Timaru are May, September, December and July, with each month seeing an average of 360 mm of rainfall.
What's there to see and do with your family in Timaru?
While you are holidaying in Timaru, you and the family may want to see some interesting spots such as Aigantighe Art Gallery and DB Brewery. Make sure that you have lots of time for activities such as Jacks Point Surfspot and Caroline Bay Beach.
What's the best way for us to get around Timaru?
To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Timaru Station. Timaru may not have many public transport options to choose from, so consider renting a car to explore more.