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Top reasons to visit Timaru

• Stunning Botanic Gardens: The Timaru Botanic Gardens offer beautiful landscapes, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
• Rich Local History: Explore the local history museum to delve into Timaru's fascinating past and culture.
• Charming Central Timaru: Discover delightful cafes and boutique shops in the vibrant heart of the city.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the picturesque beaches and coastal scenery, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of pet-friendly motels and eco-certified guesthouses for a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in Timaru

Experience a delightful stay in Timaru with a variety of accommodation options that cater to every traveler's needs. From pet-friendly motels to eco-certified guesthouses, you'll find the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly services or a touch of luxury, Timaru's hotels provide a warm welcome and convenient amenities to make your visit memorable.

• The Grosvenor: A charming 3-star hotel, The Grosvenor offers an eco-certified lodging experience perfect for environmentally conscious travellers. Nestled in the heart of Timaru, this hotel prioritises sustainability without compromising comfort. Guests appreciate the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the commitment to green practices. The Grosvenor features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring local attractions, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a responsible yet enjoyable vacation.
• Aspen on King Motel: This 4.5-star motel stands out with its commitment to inclusivity and eco-friendliness. Aspen on King Motel not only welcomes LGBTQIA travellers but also embodies a contemporary and stylish design. The property features spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, catering to both leisure and business guests. With eco-certification, guests can enjoy their stay knowing they are supporting sustainable practices. Located in Timaru, it provides easy access to local attractions, making it a top pick for those seeking a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
• Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru: A comfortable 3.5-star motel, Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru is perfect for travellers seeking entertainment and convenience. Each room is equipped with LCD TVs and satellite channels, ensuring ample options for relaxation. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as shopping outlets and parks, making it a superb choice for families. The property also offers essential facilities such as a laundromat and is conveniently located near hospitals and the airport. With a blend of comfort and practicality, Parklands Motor Lodge is an excellent option for your stay in Timaru.

Where to stay in and around Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful blend of stunning scenery and a warm, friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for your vacation. Explore the charming Central Timaru, where you can find great spots to relax and enjoy local cafes. Whether you're after a peaceful getaway or a taste of luxury, this vibrant city and its surrounding areas promise memorable experiences for every traveller.

• Maori Hill: Nestled around the vibrant area of Timaru, Maori Hill offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. This suburb attracts moderate seasonal travellers, with peaks in March and from December to January. Visitors are drawn to its array of activities, including shopping, spa treatments, and body care. The breathtaking local attractions, such as nearby mountains, a national state park, and beautiful beaches, make it an ideal spot for those seeking a bit of thrill and relaxation in nature.
• Fairview: Just 3.2km from Timaru, Fairview is a charming suburb perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and romance. The area experiences moderate seasonal visitor numbers, peaking in March and during the festive months. Fairview is known for its picturesque lakes and tranquil urban parks, making it a fantastic spot for leisurely walks or picnics. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or simply want to enjoy the serene landscapes, Fairview provides a perfect backdrop for your adventures.
• Scarborough: Located 3.2km from Timaru, Scarborough is a quaint village where the beauty of nature meets rich history. Although visitor numbers are not highly seasonal, they do peak in March and during the summer months. Travellers flock here for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and romantic ambiance. Popular activities include running along scenic paths, fishing at the marina, and unwinding at the local spa. Nearby attractions, such as a picturesque lake and a history museum, offer a glimpse into the area’s heritage and charm.

Things to do in and around Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery, perfect for a memorable getaway. Enjoy shopping in local boutiques, explore recreational areas, and indulge in body treatments. Don't miss the chance to encounter local wildlife, go horse riding, and partake in various outdoorsy activities. Guided site tours will enhance your experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty and charm of this picturesque region.

Shopping

In Timaru, check out the South City Shopping Centre for a variety of stores, including fashion and gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Ashburton Shopping Centre, which offers a wider selection of boutiques and specialty shops perfect for souvenirs.

Recreation

McLean Park offers a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for active recreation. Patiti Point, nestled in Timaru, provides a serene environment for relaxation and wellness. Meanwhile, Fairlie Golf Course invites you to enjoy the great outdoors with a round of golf, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Adventure

In Timaru, explore the breathtaking scenery while hiking the scenic paths of the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre. For thrill-seekers, experience the adrenaline rush of surfing at Caroline Bay, where the waves provide an exhilarating challenge for adventurers of all skill levels.

Nightlife

For a unique experience, visit the Geraldine Observatory, located 33.8km from Timaru, where you can enjoy family-friendly entertainment and gaze at the stars. Alternatively, head to the local pubs for a taste of craft beers and live music that showcases the vibrant local talent.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Timaru

Timaru is an affordable destination for travellers, with free entry to attractions like Ashbury Park. To save on transport, consider using the local bus service, which is budget-friendly. The best time to visit is from August to October, when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Sundays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare prices and find exclusive deals by filtering for eco-certified hotels. Consider booking a package that includes flights and activities to maximise savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Timaru are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Timaru is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Timaru is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay in Timaru with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and romantic spots, making it ideal for a memorable getaway. Key attractions include the Timaru Botanic Gardens, the local history museum, and urban parks, catering to families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss a visit to the Port of Timaru for a taste of local charm and beautiful views.

• Ashbury Park: This urban park offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space for families to enjoy outdoor activities. With its lush greenery and vibrant city vibes, it's perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or children's playtime.
• South Canterbury Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region at this history museum. Featuring fascinating exhibits that showcase the local heritage, it's a great spot for those keen to learn about the area's past and its diverse communities.
• Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden: This beautiful flower garden is a floral haven filled with stunning rose varieties. It's an ideal spot for families to explore and enjoy the outdoors, with scenic paths and a peaceful ambiance perfect for a relaxing day out.

Best time to go to Timaru

The best time to visit Timaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Timaru falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Timaru falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Timaru

Flying into Timaru is convenient via the Richard Pearse Airport (TIU), situated 11.3km from the town centre. Popular accommodation options nearby include the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, located 11.3km away, the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, 8.0km from the airport, and the Baywatch Motor Lodge, which is 9.7km away. Transportation services from these motels to the airport are readily available, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors looking to explore the beautiful Canterbury region. Enjoy your stay in Timaru, where stunning landscapes and warm hospitality await.