When was the Jack's Point lighthouse built, and has it always been there?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It was built on site in 1903 by the Timaru Harbour Board. The light originally stood on Somes Island in 1866 before it ended up at Jack's Point.
Timaru Questions
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Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Is it easy to pass walkers on a bike, or does the track get crowded at weekends?
Does the Dashing Rocks walk go past the lighthouse?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, after climbing the Benvenue Cliffs from Caroline Bay the track follows the coast past Blackett's Lighthouse and the site of two historic shipwrecks before heading back inland.
Is it easy to find a park at Caroline Bay on a sunny weekend before the walk?
How far is the walk from the campsite to the swimming hole?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's about 100 metres, roughly a 5 minute walk. The short track leads upstream from the campground to a scenic swimming hole.
Is it okay to stay in a campervan that isn't self-contained?
Do surfers use the beach along the South Beach track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, surfers often use the break at South Beach when there is swell, so you may see them from the track.
Is the surface sealed the whole way, or is there loose shingle in places for bike tyres?
What landmark do you pass near the lawns before the Community Lounge at Caroline Bay?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The Palliser Fountain is the landmark near the lawns, just before the path reaches the Community Lounge and playground.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap along the Caroline Bay path to fill a water bottle?
Can you camp at Peel Forest in winter?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The serviced campground is closed from May to mid-October. During that time the neighbouring Clarke Flat opens as a non-serviced campground.
Is there enough parking at Te Wanahu Flat on a busy summer weekend?
Will I see farm animals along the Otipua Creek Walkway?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there are paddocks on both sides of the track with farm animals in them, so you can usually see stock as you walk.
Are there any toilets along the track, or do you have to wait until Centennial Park?
What will riding the Timaru pump track help me get better at?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It helps you improve balance, build speed and master momentum. That applies whether you're on a bike, scooter or skateboard.
Is there anywhere decent for parents to sit and watch the kids on the track?
Is it an easy walk into town from the Caroline Bay camping area?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, it's a short walk into town via the big steps or the lift up to The Piazza and Stafford Street, where the cafés, restaurants and shops are.
How full does it get by evening in summer, and what time do you need to arrive?
What time do the Timaru Botanic Gardens open and close?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The gardens are open every day of the year from 8am until dusk. Vehicles can enter from Queen Street.
Is the playground fenced, or can kids wander off towards the ponds?
How many vehicles are usually parked up here by evening in summer?
Where else near Geraldine can I see long-tailed bats at dusk?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Talbot Forest in Geraldine. The bats flit out at dusk from the giant tōtara and mataī there, and Geraldine is one of the few NZ towns where you can see them.
Has anyone stayed here in a campervan that isn't self-contained? How did it go?
How far is Winchester Bridge camping area from Timaru?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's about 30 km from Timaru, going north on State Highway 1.
How many vans fit here and does it fill up on summer weekends?
What's the ground like at Arundel Bridge, and is there any shade?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The camping area is flat and grassy, with easy access down to the riverbank. Riverside trees give some shade.
How busy does Arundel Bridge get in summer, and is it hard to find a spot?
Can I return a book to Temuka or Geraldine if I borrowed it in Timaru?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, books borrowed at any branch can be returned at another. That includes the Temuka and Geraldine libraries.
Is it easy to find a park near the library on a Saturday morning?
How long should I allow for a visit to South Canterbury Museum?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
An hour or two is enough. The museum is compact, so it's easy to explore in that time.
Is there easy parking near the museum on Perth Street on weekdays?
What kind of things are on display at Temuka Museum?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Artefacts, photographs and documents covering local history from European settlement onward. It's a small volunteer-run museum inside the old courthouse.
Is it free to go in, or do they ask for a gold coin donation?
How long should I allow for the Geraldine museum?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Allow about half an hour. It's a compact museum, and many visitors treat it as a short stop when passing through Geraldine.
Does the museum hold the attention of young kids, or is it mostly things behind glass?
Who runs the Aigantighe Art Gallery in Timaru?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Timaru District Council manages the gallery.
Are there information panels beside the works, or just basic labels?
Does the Pleasant Point museum have a model railway?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there's a large model train display on site. It sits alongside displays on the 1953 Tangiwai disaster, old printing machines and computers.
If it's raining, is there enough under cover to fill a visit?
What can I borrow from Temuka Library besides books?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
You can borrow DVDs, audiobooks, e-books and digital magazines as well as books. Anything you borrow can be returned at any Timaru District Libraries branch.
Is Temuka Library easy to get around with a wheelchair or walker?
How much time should I set aside for the vintage museum?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Two to four hours is typical, and visits of that length feel worthwhile even if you only have a casual interest in vintage cars and machinery.
Is it easy to get around the buildings in a wheelchair? Wondering about the floors and doorways.
How much notice do I need to give to cancel a Te Ana tour?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure.
Is it easy to find parking near the centre on George Street?
Can two kids go on the flying fox together at Mulcahy Park?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the 30-metre tandem flying fox has two parallel lines, so two kids can ride side by side.
Is the playground area fenced at Mulcahy Park, or is it open to the rest of the park?
Is it easy to find a park near the library on Talbot Street on a weekday?
What's the ground like under the playground gear at Temuka Domain?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The play equipment sits on safety surfacing. There are swings, climbing frames and several other play structures.
Is the playground okay for toddlers, or is the gear more for bigger kids?
Is there anything for kids to do near the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the Caroline Bay park around the rose garden has a children's playground, paddling pool, mini golf, skate park and the beach.
Are there toilets close to the rose garden, or is it a walk along the bay?
Is the CPlay playground at Caroline Bay free, and what hours is it open?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, it's free to enter and open 7 days, 24 hours a day. You'll find it at 1 Virtue Ave, off Evans Street.
Are the paths around the playground and beach easy to push a pram on?
Is the loop okay for young kids on their own bikes?
Is the playground at Geraldine Domain fenced off from the road?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Partly. It's fenced off from the busy road but not from the side road, so keep an eye on little ones. It sits right next to the Geraldine swimming pool.
Is there any playground equipment a kid with limited mobility could use?
Where does the Pleasant Point Domain Walk start and what does it pass?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It starts at the corner of State Highway 8 and George Street. The walk passes the camping ground and the golf course.
Is it easy to park close to the adventure playground on Halstead Road?
Does Lough Park Playground in Timaru have swings?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there are swings, plus a jungle gym, slides, a flying fox and the six-metre Eagle's Nest climbing structure.
Is it easy to find a park near the playground on Lough Street?
Where does the Pareora River Walkway start?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The walkway begins at Evans Crossing and follows the river up towards the gorge and the dam. Swimming is not advised at the dam.
Are there any toilets at Evans Crossing, or do you need to bring your own plan?
Is it worth taking a fishing rod to Te Moana Gorge?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Maybe. Fish can be in the pools and under overhangs, but the river is very bouldery, so spinner fishing may not work well there.
Is there any sand by the swimming holes or is it all rocks and boulders?
What's the driving route from Geraldine to the Orari Gorge track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Take Main North Rd (72) 4.5 km out of Geraldine, turn left onto Tripp Settlement Rd for 7.5 km, then left onto Yates Rd. The reserve is opposite Glenburn Youth Camp.
Are the swimming holes safe for small kids or is the current strong and deep?
How long is the Rangitata River and where does it reach the sea?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The Rangitata runs about 121 kilometres from the Southern Alps, through the gorge, to the Canterbury Bight, about 64 kilometres northeast of Timaru.
Are there toilets at the river access spots, or do you need to plan ahead?
Is there somewhere to park at Washdyke Lagoon?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there's a parking area by the Bridge Street bridge at Washdyke, close to where the public accessway to the lagoon starts.
How muddy does the path get after rain at Washdyke Lagoon?
What is the Bowker Gateway at Centennial Park?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It is a gateway built in 1940 that marks a land gift linking the park to Otipua Road.
Is the playground at Centennial Park fenced off from the lake or the car park?
Are there toilets and parking at the Bennetts Road swim spot?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, Bennetts Road reserve has public toilets and a carpark, and there are plenty of spaces for a picnic in the reserve.
Is the shore at Bennetts Road sandy or stony when you wade in?
Where does the Taumatakahu Stream track end, and can I keep going?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The track finishes on Shaw Street. You can carry on to Murray Street and link onto the Allan Jones Walkway if you want a longer outing.
Has anyone taken an e-bike along the Taumatakahu Stream track? Any problems?
What's the SH1 Bridge swim spot at Temuka like?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's in the lower braided section on the edge of Temuka, with access tracks through scrub and willows.
Is there anywhere on the Opihi deep enough for jumping in, or is it all shallow?
Are there cafes along the Timaru historic walk where I can stop for a coffee?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, cafes, shops and services line the route through the city centre, so it's easy to stop for a coffee or combine the walk with other things in the CBD.
Is the walk still worth doing in the rain, or is there much shelter along the way?
Is the Pareora River Walk a loop or do you return the same way?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's an out and back walk. The track follows the Pareora River upstream to the dam, then you return the same way.
Are there any steep bits on the track up to the dam?
Are there toilets and picnic spots at Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve beside the track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve has picnic facilities and toilets. The Tripp Street picnic area is a good starting point for exploring the reserve's short walks.
Is there easy parking near the bottom of Tripp Street, or do you end up parking in town?
Does it get busy with walkers and dog owners, or is it easy riding a bike along it?
Is the Opihi Walkway sealed or is it grass?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's grass. The walkway follows the grassy tops of the stopbanks beside the Ōpihi River, and it's mostly flat.
Are there any toilets along the Opihi Walkway or at the Arowhenua Road carpark?
Are there any views along the Claremont Bush Walk?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there's a clearing at the top of the loop with views over the surrounding farmland toward the Hunters Hills.
Is the Claremont bush loop shady on a hot afternoon, or are there exposed stretches?
Is the pekapeka the Pekapeka Gully Track is named after endangered?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes. The long-tailed bat is classed as Nationally Critical, so it is in danger of extinction if it isn't protected. That is why seeing one at dusk is a rare treat.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle on the track or at either end?
Are there good views from the top of Waitohi Bush?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the top of the hill has wonderful panoramic views over South Canterbury. They make the climb worthwhile even if you only have time for a short walk.
How rough is the gravel road in after rain, and is it okay for a campervan?
How do I drive to the Hook Bush Track from Waimate?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Turn right off Timaru Road (SH 82) onto Maytown Road, then take the second right onto Waimate Hunter Road for about 12.5 km. At Hunter turn left onto Jacksons Bush Road and follow it to its end.
Is there a toilet at the road end, or is it best to go in Waimate first?
Is there parking near the start of the Acland Falls Track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, both Clarke Flat and Te Wanahu Flat picnic areas have parking, and they are the main starting points for the track.
Does the waterfall still run well in a dry summer or is it best after rain?
Where do I park for the Emily Falls Track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Park in the car park at the Blandswood Road and Lookout Road junction, then walk a short way up Lookout Road to the start. Don't park on Lookout Road itself, as it isn't suitable for parking.
Does Emily Falls still flow well in a dry summer or does it drop right off?
Is the Caroline Bay skate park okay for scooters as well as skateboards?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the skate park caters to both skateboarders and scooter riders of varying abilities. It sits right next to the bike skills park.
Does the bike skills park work as a pump track, or is it more for little kids?
What gear works best for salmon on the lower Ōpihi?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Spinning is the usual method around the mouth and lower river. Fish a Zed spinner, or a weight and Colorado spoon, close to the bottom on a rod that casts 15 to 28 g lures.
Is the lower Ōpihi okay to bring a dog while fishing, or are the banks too overgrown?
Are there any rules at Kennedy Park, like no glass or smoking?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, no glass and no smoking or vaping. Dogs also have to stay at least 10 metres away from any play equipment.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the skate park, or should you bring your own water?
Is there much shade at the Temuka skate park in the afternoon, or is it all in the sun?
Are there any special birds along the Ōrāri riverbed?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the riverbed is an Important Bird Area with breeding colonies of the endangered black-billed gull.
Are there any toilets near the Orari Bridge access, or is it best to go before you leave?
Where can I park for Caroline Bay?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Use the Caroline Bay car parks, reached from Marine Parade and Virtue Avenue. Don't park inside the port's operational areas.
How is the Timaru boat ramp for launching a small boat, and is it busy at weekends?
Where can I buy lures before heading out to the Rangitata mouth?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Davo's Fishing Hunting & Sport at 186 Hilton Highway, Washdyke, Timaru. It stocks rods, reels, lures, line and terminal tackle, so get your lures and weights in town first.
How far is the walk from the car to the mouth on the south side, and is it easy going?
Why does the Pareora get so low in summer?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
From December the Pareora runs low, and water taken for public supply and irrigation makes the low flows worse. That is why early season is the time to fish it.
Is there room to park close to the water at Evans Crossing on a weekend?
How much does a casual night cost at the Waitangi lakes camping grounds?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
A casual night is $20 per site for a single person or a couple, or $35 for a family site with up to two adults and two children under 16.
Is it easy to park near the water at Waitangi, or is it a bit of a walk?
Has toxic algae been a problem on the Temuka River?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes. Toxic algal mats were found at the Manse Bridge site in January 2024, close to health warning levels. Dog owners and swimmers were advised to take care at that time of year.
How easy is the walk along the bank from the SH1 bridge, or is it overgrown with willows?
Is Camp Beach at Lake Tekapo sandy or stony?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's stony. The shore is a gravel beach, with trees and grassy areas further back from the water.
Are there picnic tables near the camp beach, or do you just sit on the grass?
How far is Jack's Point surf break from Timaru, and who is it suited to?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Jack's Point at Scarborough is about a 10 minute drive south of Timaru. It's a right-hand point break suited to advanced to expert surfers.
How busy does the Pātītī Point car park get on good swell days or weekends?
What's the driving route to Gunns Bush Track from Waimate?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Turn off SH82 onto Maytown Road, then take the second right onto Waimate Hunter Road. Go straight ahead at Gunns Corner onto Upper Hook Road, then turn left onto Gunns Bush Road after about 9 km.
Are there any toilets at the car park before you start the walk?
How long should I wait to swim at Lake Hood after heavy rain?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming. Rain flushes contaminants from land into waterways, even at sites that generally have good water quality.
Are there any showers to rinse off after a swim at Bayliss Beach?
What is the old pipe beside the Sanders Falls track?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It's the remains of Waimate's first water supply. The pipe beside the track and at the falls supplied the town from 1915 until a major flood in 1932 ended it.
Is the car park right at the start of the walk, and does it fill up on weekends?
Is there a way to loop back to the car park without retracing my steps?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the Quail Track links the middle of the Bellbird Track with the Railway Track, giving you a different route back to the car park.
Are there toilets at the car park or anywhere along the tracks?
Where do you park at Hook Beach?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Use the small turning area at the top of the beach. Don't block it or the farm gateways.
Does Hook Beach get crowded in elephant fish season, or can you usually find a spot?
Is Lake Opuha fly fishing only, or can I spin or use bait?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
No, it isn't fly only. Artificial fly, spinner and bait are all allowed, and the trout season runs from 1 October to 30 April.
Is Lake Opuha a good spot to take kids who are new to fishing?
Can I use bait or a spinner on the Waihī, or is it fly only?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, you can use bait or a spinner as well as fly on the Waihī. The trout season runs from 1 October to 30 April.
Where do you usually park to fish the Waihī near Kennedy Park and the Domain?
Is bait allowed on the Tengawai River?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, bait is allowed. The Ōpihi and its tributaries, which include the Tengawai, allow artificial fly, spinner and bait. The trout season runs 1 October to 30 April.
Is it okay to bring a dog fishing along the Tengawai near the bridge?
Is the South Face Track from the Sharplin Falls car park an easy walk?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
No, it's an advanced tramping track. It's 11.6 km one way and takes about 7 hours between Woolshed Creek car park and Sharplin Falls car park, so it's a big day out.
Has anyone timed the new track? Is it a quick walk to the falls, or longer than 15 minutes?
What's the trout bag limit on the lower Waihao near the Box?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
The limit is 4 trout on the Waihao downstream of Waihao Forks Bridge, which includes the Box. The trout season there runs from 1 October to 30 April.
Do people take dogs to the Waihao Box when they fish, or is it a bad spot for them?
Is the Timaru Circuit Trail better for cycling or walking?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It suits cyclists best, especially if you want a longer ride. You can walk it too, and you can pick individual sections to walk or bike instead of doing the whole circuit.
How much of the circuit is sealed, and is it okay on a road bike?
Is there anywhere to sit or shelter at the top of the tracks?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there's a seating area and a shelter at the top of the hill. The shelter was built from reclaimed wooden piles that came from Timaru's port.
Are there any toilets near the bike park, or do you have to head back into town?
Is the walk in to the Te Manunui rock art slippery?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It can be. The way in is slightly downhill and can be slippery, so wear appropriate shoes.
Is there room to pull off and park near the stile on Frenchmans Gully Road?
Can people hunt at Peel Forest, and do you need a permit?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Hunting is allowed at Peel Forest from 1 April to 30 September, except over Easter and Anzac weekends. Hunters need a permit.
How is the Tuhawaiki Point track after heavy rain, and does the wind get bad out there?
Where does the Takapō route join the off-road trail at Lake Pūkaki?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
At about 35 km, after the route turns onto Hayman Road at Lake Pūkaki. The trail then follows the shoreline with Aoraki/Mt Cook in view and crosses the Pūkaki dam to the visitor centre car park.
Has anyone ridden sections of the Alps 2 Ocean with primary school kids? Which bits worked?
Are the walks in Talbot Forest shady and easy going?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, there are four easy, shady walks through the forest, and they connect with the streets around the reserve.
Is it easy to do a loop from the Tripp Street picnic area without backtracking?
Can I pay by internet banking at the St Andrews camping ground?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes. You can pay the caretaker on site directly, or use internet banking instead.
How noisy is the highway at night on the grass sites?
How do I get to the Big Tree Walk at Peel Forest from Geraldine?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Turn off SH72 into Peel Forest Road 9.5 km north of Geraldine. It becomes Rangitata Gorge Road, and the track starts at Te Wanahu Flat.
Is the Saltwater Creek track shady in the afternoon or pretty exposed?
Is the Timaru to Cave section of the Central South Trail wheelchair accessible?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, the Timaru to Cave section of the trail is listed as wheelchair accessible.
How is the parking at Sir Basil Arthur Park on a weekend morning?
Can I book the Mt Nimrod campsite on the day I arrive?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, if spaces remain. Same-day bookings are open online until 8pm, but no spaces are held for anyone who turns up without a booking, so book before you drive out.
Is the waterfall better after rain, or does Nimrod Stream get too high to ford?
Can I book Waihī Gorge on the same day I arrive?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes, same-day bookings can be made online until 8pm if spaces remain. If nothing shows online for your dates, the campsite is full, and no spaces are kept for walk-ins.
Does your phone get any reception at the Waihī Gorge campsite?
Is it a good option if it's raining?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Mostly, yes. The tractors, machinery and classic trucks are kept in an array of buildings, so much of a visit is under cover.
Are there info panels by the engines and trucks, or do you need to ask a volunteer?
How do I get to Kakahu Bush from Temuka?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
From Temuka it's about 23 km inland, going via Waitohi Temuka Road, Earl Road and Winchester Hanging Rock Road.
Are there any information panels at the lime kiln or along the track?
What does a campervan need to count as self-contained for camping here?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
It needs a toilet permanently fixed to and usable inside the vehicle. It also needs proper water supply, wastewater, ventilation, sink and rubbish storage systems.
How full does it get on a summer weekend, and what time do you need to arrive to get a spot?
Is there a discount for veterans or RSA members at Geraldine Military Museum?
The Smoko RoomCity guide
Yes. RSA members, service personnel and veterans pay $5 with ID, and infants under five get in free. A single adult ticket is $15.
Are there public toilets at the museum, or do you need to use the ones in town?
Are there any toilets along the Woodbury cycleway or at the Orari River tracks?
Nothing here right now.