Timaru is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most underrated seaside towns. Here, you'll find exciting eateries, ancient Māori rock art, and one of the country's best beaches.
On cliffs and caves scattered across the South Island are beautiful paintings of mythical creatures and native animals that have since become extinct, such as the Haast's eagle (giant eagle) and Moa (a large flightless bird). These centuries-old drawings were made by Māori as far back as 800 years ago, when they first arrived from Polynesia. See eight stunning examples of this ancient art form in a gallery setting at Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre.
The Aigantighe Art Gallery's(opens in new window) small permanent collection showcases a respectable cross-section of European and Pacific art from the sixteenth century to the present day. But its works by contemporary New Zealand artists such as Don Binney and Colon McCahon are the real joys of the collection.
Head to Caroline Bay to see Little Blue Penguins returning to their burrows after a day at sea. Please stay behind the fenced-off area and don’t use flash photography. For more information, visit Timaru Penguins(opens in new window). Please note, the penguins are at Caroline Bay from October to March only.
New Zealand’s three native birds of prey are impressive hunters. The New Zealand falcon seizes other birds in mid-air at speeds of up to 200 kilometres an hour. The harrier floats on thermal currents as it circles for prey. And the morepork flies almost silently as it sneaks up on unsuspecting insects or rodents. On a New Zealand Raptor Experience tour, you’ll learn more about these amazing birds and be introduced to birds that have been rehabilitated following illness or injury but cannot be released back into the wild. Profits from the tours go towards caring for these birds, along with education and advocacy programmes.
The free Timaru Trails app(opens in new window) is jam-packed with useful information, including where to find the region’s best hikes and cycling trails and the history of important local landmarks. Insider tip: select the Timaru Eats option to find the nearest eateries and restaurants for wherever you happen to be.
Caroline Bay is a beautiful family-friendly beach surrounded by bustling cafés, public parks, and gardens. Follow the Memorial Walkway to the Benvenue Cliffs, where you’ll find the historic Blackett's Lighthouse (established 1878).
Timaru is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of Phar Lap. This legendary racehorse was on a remarkable winning streak, taking 32 of 35 races, when he died of suspected arsenic poisoning in 1932. Although Phar Lap spent most of his life in Melbourne, the distribution of his remains reflects the claims on him by both Australia and New Zealand. His heart and his hide went to Australia, while is skeleton came back to New Zealand, where it has been on display at the national museum Te Papa Tongarewa(opens in new window) in Wellington ever since.
