Last updated May 2026
Parkside is a central residential suburb of Timaru covering 1.15 square kilometres, with a population of around 2,550. The suburb contains the Timaru Botanic Gardens — a garden reserve officially established in 1867 — and Timaru Hospital, which sits on the northeastern corner of the gardens. Several historic squares and Timaru’s two single-sex secondary schools are also within or adjacent to the suburb.
Practical Information
| Location | Central Timaru |
|---|---|
| Area | 1.15 km² |
| Population | ~2,550 (est.) |
| Key attraction | Timaru Botanic Gardens (est. 1867) |
| Hospital | Timaru Hospital — NE corner of Botanic Gardens |
| Schools | Timaru South School (est. 1881), Timaru Girls’ High School (est. 1880) |
| Size ranking | 7th largest suburb in Timaru by housing stock |
Timaru Botanic Gardens
The Timaru Botanic Gardens are the centrepiece of Parkside — a garden reserve officially set aside in 1867 and one of the oldest public gardens in South Canterbury. The gardens provide a large area of green space in the heart of the city and are a popular destination for residents and visitors. Timaru Hospital, the public hospital serving the South Canterbury district, is located on the northeastern corner of the Botanic Gardens site.
Historic Squares
Parkside contains several of Timaru’s historic urban squares: Anzac Square, Alexandra Square, Russell Square and Boer War Memorial Park. These small reserves are a legacy of Timaru’s early town planning and provide pockets of open space among the residential streets.
Schools
Timaru South School is a coeducational state primary (years 1–8), established in 1881 as an extension of Timaru Main School. Timaru Girls’ High School is a single-sex state secondary (years 9–13) established in 1880 — one of Canterbury’s older secondary schools.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Parkside, New Zealand — suburb overview with location, population data and key features.
FAQ
Where is Parkside in Timaru?
A central suburb of Timaru covering 1.15 square kilometres, with around 2,550 residents.
What are the Timaru Botanic Gardens?
A public garden reserve officially established in 1867, located in the heart of Parkside — one of the oldest public gardens in South Canterbury.
Where is Timaru Hospital?
On the northeastern corner of the Botanic Gardens in Parkside — the main public hospital for the South Canterbury district.
What schools are in Parkside?
Timaru South School (primary, est. 1881) and Timaru Girls’ High School (secondary, est. 1880).
Parkside is a central suburb of Timaru in South Canterbury. Timaru Botanic Gardens has more information on the gardens and what to see there. Timaru Central on Stafford Street is the commercial hub immediately adjacent.
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