Timaru

Timaru Regional Information

Timaru is the largest urban centre in South Canterbury and relies on the activities of the port and dairy industry for its economic wellbeing. The city's original name was Te Maru, meaning 'place of shelter' in the Maori language, as it offered a sheltered resting place for those traveling by canoe down the open east coast of the South Island. In the 1830's, the area was a whaling settlement and later became the site of pastoral developments. Signs of Timaru's European heritage remain in the form of fine Edwardian architecture throughout the city.

The most vibrant holiday spot in the city is Caroline Bay, a sandy and safe swimming beach, with a traditional atmosphere created by promenades and picnic areas on the shoreline. Family entertainment includes a maze, mini golf, paddling pool and playground, as well as the annual Christmas and New Year Carnival, which offers days of fairground rides and other festivities. The bay is also the site of the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a remarkable garden featuring over 1,000 roses. Planted in honour of South Canterbury rosarian and author, Trevor Griffiths, the garden combines tradition with contemporary design.

Timaru's Aigantighe Art Gallery is an impressive provincial collection covering New Zealand and European art from the seventeenth century to the present day. The gallery itself is housed in an historic mansion, built in 1908, and hosts regional exhibitions as well as touring art shows. For another taste of culture, the South Canterbury Museum's collection illustrates the natural and social history of the region, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Navigate with our great Timaru map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Timaru weather.

For further information, visit the Central South Island's regional information site.