From luxury retreats to cosy escapes the Timaru District offer stays for every kind of getaway.

If you’re after a romantic getaway or peaceful countryside stay, Fiery Peak Eco Retreat offers a secluded escape surrounded by stunning landscapes, complete with a wood-fired hot tub for ultimate relaxation.

For something timeless and elegant, The Vicarage Geraldine blends heritage charm with boutique comfort, the kind of place made for slow mornings, cosy evenings, and a peaceful weekend away.

Ngā Whare Mānatu is a luxury experience for those wanting comfort and a memorable stay close to nature. With an outdoor bath you’re in for a treat with a relaxing night under the stars.

Closer to the coast, The Sea Breeze is all about relaxed beachside living. Wake up to ocean views, breathe in the fresh sea air and ease into the day at your own pace. In the heart of town, newly renovated Empire Hotel is a great base for exploring Timaru’s cafes, bars, and shops in The Exchange – heart of Timaru’s CBD.

For something truly unique, Naked Soul Space offers a wellness-inspired retreat focused on rest, recharge, and reconnecting. With a private cabin, sauna, ice bath, massages and float tank experiences, it’s the ultimate reset, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Cosy cafes, lively bars, laid-back breweries and local favourites make Timaru District the perfect place to eat your way around town.

Start your day with coffee from Mrs M’s a local go-to known for consistently great coffee and amazing cheese scones. It’s the perfect place to ease into the morning before heading out to explore.

When lunchtime rolls around, Geraldine offers plenty of great spots to settle in for a meal. Head to Verde for fresh, vibrant dishes packed with flavour. Or grab a table at House of Hop, home to one of the best craft beer selections in town and delicious hearty food.

For dinner, Pier 64 is hard to beat. Looking out to the waterfront, it’s the kind of spot where long dinners stretch into sunset drinks, with sea views and mouth-watering food that make you want to linger a little longer.

If you’re looking for evening drinks, Timaru has plenty of great spots to settle into. Hector Black’s is a quirky lounge bar with live music, board games, and even pigeon racing nights. Bonnie Day Brewery & Taproom and Ship Hop Brewing showcase the best of the local craft beer offerings with plenty on tap.

Local favourites include grabbing a few dishes from Street Food Kitchen for a meal full of flavour. Saikou for delectable cocktails and delicious Asian fusion tapas style dishes, or settling in for a classic hearty pub meal at Speight’s Ale House.

Fresh ocean air, quiet walking trails, scenic landscapes, street art and boutique shopping will make you want to wander a little longer. 

The coastal walks around Timaru offer ocean views, fresh sea air and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in. Wander along Caroline Bay, explore the rugged beauty of the Dashing Rocks Coastal Walk, or head out to Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point Lighthouse for dramatic coastal scenery.

If you’re up for a day trip, Peel Forest is well worth the drive. Native bush, walking tracks, waterfalls and peaceful surroundings make it one of South Canterbury’s most beautiful natural escapes. Take a 30 minute walk to The Big Tree or chase waterfalls on the Acland Falls and Emily Falls tracks. 

Look out for Timaru and Geraldine’s growing collection of street art, bringing colour, creativity, and personality to the towns. Use the Timaru Trails app for a self guided street art tour.

Spend an afternoon browsing The Exchange, heart of Timaru’s CBD. Browse thoughtfully curated stores offering fashion, homewares, gifts and galleries. Or wander down Geraldine’s main street with boutique shopping, vintage finds and artisan goods. 

Take your time wandering through the local Timaru Artisan Farmers Market on Saturday morning filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts and coffee carts.