Things to Do in Timaru

Everything to see and do in Timaru.

Timaru has a solid mix of outdoor and cultural things to do, from walking the coastal path at Caroline Bay and exploring the Timaru Botanic Gardens to visiting the South Canterbury Museum, the Aigantighe Art Gallery and the Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre. Day trips to Peel Forest, Geraldine and the Mackenzie District open up even more options. Most of the city’s best spots are free or low cost.

Browse all things to do below:

This Weekend Parks and Reserves Walking Tracks Kids Playgrounds Swimming Spots Fishing Spots Waterfalls Cycle & BMX Tracks Skate Parks Sunrise and Sunset Historical & Cultural Sites Day Trips from Timaru

Frequently asked questions

What are the best things to do in Timaru?

The best things to do in Timaru span parks and gardens, coastal and bush walks, beaches, museums and galleries, and family days out. Each has a full write-up covering what to expect, how to get there and what’s nearby.

What are the top attractions in Timaru?

Timaru’s standout attractions include its major parks and lookouts, waterfront and heritage sites, and its best-known museums and galleries. The guides rank and describe each so you can build a day around them.

Are there free things to do in Timaru?

Plenty. Many of Timaru’s parks, walks, beaches and lookouts are free, and a good number of museums and galleries have free entry too. The guides note what’s free as you browse.

What are the best indoor things to do in Timaru?

For indoor days in Timaru, the museums, galleries, libraries and covered attractions are the pick. Most open around 10am to 5pm and many are free to enter.

What can I do in Timaru with kids?

Playgrounds, easy walks, beaches and hands-on museums all make for good family days out in Timaru. The parks, playgrounds and family-attraction guides cover age-appropriate ideas.

What are some of Timaru’s hidden gems?

Beyond the headline sights, Timaru has quieter reserves, lesser-known lookouts, local walks and small galleries worth seeking out. The guides flag these alongside the big-name spots.

Can I book things to do in Timaru through this page?

No, bookings are made with the operator direct. Each business under Things to Book in Timaru has its own page here with contact details, opening hours and a link to their own website, so you can check availability and book with them.

Are the businesses under Things to Book in Timaru paid placements?

Yes. Those operators pay to appear on Explore Timaru. The parks, walks, playgrounds and attraction guides linked on this page are chosen by us, and nobody pays to be included in them.

How do I get my Timaru business listed on Explore Timaru?

If you run a tour, activity, attraction or anything else visitors book in Timaru, you can be listed under Things to Book. See how it works and get in touch.