Search Timaru hotels

Top reasons to visit Timaru

• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Timaru boasts picturesque coastal spots, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
• Outdoor Activities: Perfect for enthusiasts, the region features scenic trails and rejuvenating body treatments, catering to adventure seekers.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore history museums, botanical gardens, and vibrant shopping areas for a taste of local culture.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Timaru provides a delightful range of activities suitable for travellers of all ages.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Enjoy the friendly locals and charming neighbourhoods, ensuring a memorable stay in this delightful city.

Find great hotels in Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, including motels and guesthouses, perfect for every traveller. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly lodging, pet-friendly facilities, or eco-certified stays, you'll find a variety of choices to enhance your family holiday experience. Explore the best Timaru hotels to ensure a comfortable and memorable visit to this charming Canterbury destination.

• The Grosvenor: Nestled in the heart of Timaru, The Grosvenor boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This hotel offers a unique eco-certified experience, making it particularly appealing for environmentally conscious travellers. Ideal for business trips, the hotel combines professional amenities with a commitment to sustainability. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations while knowing they are contributing to eco-friendly practices during their stay.
• Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru: With an impressive guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Parklands Motor Lodge provides a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a motel experience. Located conveniently in Timaru, the property is equipped with extensive entertainment options, including multiple televisions, LCD and satellite TV channels. The motel also offers easy access to nearby activities and essential services, such as laundromats and hospitals, ensuring a hassle-free stay for guests.
• Aspen on King Motel: Achieving an outstanding guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Aspen on King Motel stands out for its eco-certified status, making it an exceptional choice for environmentally minded visitors. Set in a prime location in Timaru, the motel features modern amenities and a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax after a day of exploration. Guests will appreciate the blend of eco-friendly practices and thoughtful facilities during their stay.

Where to stay in and around Timaru

Timaru, a charming city in Canterbury, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway or a budget-friendly holiday. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of central Timaru, where friendly locals welcome you. Just minutes away, you can discover picturesque coastal spots and indulge in the luxury of nearby neighbourhoods. Whether you're seeking nightlife or tranquil scenery, Timaru promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Maori Hill: Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Timaru, Maori Hill is a charming suburb that offers a blend of natural beauty and a romantic atmosphere. With its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to serene lakes and beaches, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a peaceful escape. The peak tourist season from December to February invites visitors to explore its breathtaking scenery, while quieter months provide a more tranquil experience. Maori Hill is perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the fresh air, making it a lovely addition to your travel itinerary.
• Highfield: Situated in close proximity to Timaru, Highfield is a delightful suburb that captivates visitors with its historical charm and scenic vistas. Known for its romantic outdoor experiences, Highfield attracts those keen on exploring its local history museum, alongside beautiful lakes that provide a serene backdrop for picnics and relaxation. Like Maori Hill, visitor numbers peak during the warmer months, offering an ideal opportunity to soak in the stunning surroundings. Highfield's inviting atmosphere and scenic trails ensure a memorable travel experience for all who visit.
• Scarborough: Just 3km from Timaru, Scarborough is a quaint village that promises adventure and outdoor fun. With its close proximity to national state parks, mountains, and beaches, Scarborough is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking excitement. The area is less seasonal in terms of visitor numbers, meaning you can enjoy its beautiful recreational spaces and thrilling running trails year-round. The village's appeal lies in its ability to provide both relaxation and adventure, making it a fantastic destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Things to do in Timaru

Timaru, nestled in Canterbury, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including scenic trails, rejuvenating body treatments, and vibrant shopping areas. Popular attractions also include day trips, guided site tours, and live music events, making it a delightful destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

Shopping

In Timaru, you can enjoy shopping at the local Farmers Market, where you'll find fresh produce and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit The Plaza in Christchurch, which offers a wide range of retail shops and dining options for an extended shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Timaru Hot Pools, where you can unwind in thermal waters surrounded by beautiful gardens. For invigorating movement, explore the scenic beaches or join a yoga class in the park to enhance your wellness journey amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of the South Canterbury region with a hike in the nearby mountains, offering diverse trails for all skill levels. For a thrilling experience, try paragliding over Timaru’s coastline, taking in breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.

Nightlife

For a lively evening, visit the Speight's Ale House on Stafford Street for hearty meals and an extensive beer selection. If you're in the mood for dancing, the Blue Sky Bar on George Street offers a vibrant atmosphere with great music and cocktails to enjoy with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Timaru

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Timaru are May, August and 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 refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find that you can save some money by combining your Timaru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Timaru

Timaru, located in Canterbury, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including history museums, botanical gardens, and flower gardens. The region offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers looking to enjoy scenic beauty and rich history.

• South Canterbury Museum: Delve into the rich history and culture of the region at the South Canterbury Museum. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into local heritage, showcasing various exhibits that reflect the unique stories and traditions of Timaru and its surroundings.
• Ashbury Park: Enjoy a delightful day at Ashbury Park, an urban oasis ideal for families. The park features ample green spaces, walking paths, and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities and leisurely picnics amidst the city vibes.
• Timaru Lighthouse: Visit the historic Timaru Lighthouse, a prominent landmark that offers stunning coastal views. This iconic structure embodies the maritime history of the area and serves as a picturesque backdrop for photographs and peaceful strolls along the shore.

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	Slightly Low
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	Average
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, with two major airports to choose from. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated approximately 145km away, offering various accommodations such as Bealey Quarter, a motel 10km from the airport, and LyLo Christchurch, a hostel just 966m away. Both hotels provide accessible airport shuttle services. Alternatively, Richard Pearse Airport (TIU) is only 11km from Timaru, with nearby options including Aspen on King Motel and Ashbury Park Motel, both approximately 5 to 11km away, ensuring easy access for travellers. Whether arriving via Christchurch or Richard Pearse, you'll find suitable lodging and transport options readily available.