48 Hours in the Timaru District
In just 48 hours, you can indulge in boutique shopping, savour delicious local cuisine, discover fascinating art and history, or explore the outdoors along fantastic walking and biking trails. Admire the stunning coastline, get up close with native raptor birds and unwind in luxury accommodation.
Morning
Take a hike in the beautiful Peel Forest Scenic Reserve
Peel Forest is one of the last remaining low lying native podocarp forests in Canterbury and is a stunning place to explore. Walks start from just 30 minutes up to the Big Tree, or if you are feeling game, hike to the top of Huatakerekere/Little Mount Peel to see the sunrise.
Afternoon
Head to Geraldine and sample their local artisan food products
Geraldine is the home of delicious artisan delights. Head to Humdinger Gin, The Geraldine Cheese Company and Barker’s Foodstore and Eatery and sample away!
Evening
Catch a film at the historic Geraldine Cinema
One of a few left of its type and age in the country, the Geraldine Cinema features sofas and arm chairs so you can sit back and relax and a enjoy the latest blockbuster or independent film.
Spend the night under the stars at Ngā Whare Mānatu
The perfect place to spend the night, Ngā Whare Mānatu features four, private individual whares (houses) among native planting on the hills behind Geraldine. Relax in your private hot tub, before heading inside to watch the stars through the ceiling skylights.
Morning
Head to Timaru and take a morning stroll through Caroline Bay
After waking to stunning birdsong and sunrise views at Ngā Whare Mānatu, take the 40 minute drive through to seaside Timaru city. Grab a take away coffee and head to Caroline Bay. Wander through the stunning Trevor Griffith’s Rose Garden, or walk the boardwalk to the beach.
Find something special down Timaru’s main street
Just minutes from Caroline Bay is Timaru’s Edwardian style main street. There you’ll find a fantastic collection of locally owned stores and galleries such as Latitude South, Timaru Booksellers, The Ringmakers, Black & Co and Preen. You’ll also find national chain favourites such as Kathmandu, MacPac and Farmers.
Afternoon
Meet some of New Zealand’s birds at The Raptor Experience
Get up close in this hands-on experience with some of New Zealand’s majestic raptor birds – Harrier Hawks and Little Owls. Learn about these meat-eating birds before having the opportunity to handle them.
Take a visit to the Aigantighe Art Gallery
See the galleries latest exhibition and collection of fabulous artworks. Explore the beautiful, newly restored heritage house, as well as the tranquil sculpture garden.
Evening
Head to The Oxford for dinner
The Oxford is a restaurant and bar set within a beautifully restored 1920s heritage building. Known for its European-inspired bistro menu, they focus on simple, high-quality ingredients and bold, rustic flavours.
End the night with a funky cocktail
After dinner, wander across the road to Street Food Kitchen for a post dinner drink or to Hector Black’s for a drink and a few board games on comfy lounges.
Enjoy a comfy night’s sleep and wake up to stunning ocean views
Book a night at one of the CBD motels or hotels and wake up to beautiful sunrises over Caroline Bay. Stay at The Sea Breeze in newly renovated boutique suites, or experience the new Empire Hotel’s luxury apartments.