About Timaru

This busy coastal South Island port and holiday resort is a gateway to the mountains, lakes and rivers of the central South Island. The town is known for its elegant Victorian and Edwardian buildings, made of volcanic bluestone. Timaru's focal point is beautiful Caroline Bay. This well-equipped and safe swimming beach is bordered by a 20ha reserve which has children's playgrounds, gardens, tennis courts, an aviary, a skating rink and plenty of car parking. There is now also a new Aquatic Centre adjacent to the tennis court facilities.

Every Christmas/New Year the beach hosts Timaru's popular summer carnival – three weeks of fun and frivolity. The region's history can be explored at the South Canterbury Museum, or wander through the Aigantighe Gallery or Timaru's lovely Botanic Garden. Activities in the Timaru district include horse riding, mountain biking, golf and fishing. In winter there are several ski fields within reach – try heli-skiing or glacier skiing for something a bit different. The Washdyke Industrial Park, Washdyke Racecourse and Levels Raceway are situated some 15km away on the north side of Timaru.