Timaru Walking Tracks

1. Caroline Bay Walk

Overview
Caroline Bay is one of Timaru’s most iconic spots, featuring a beautiful sandy beach and a well-maintained walking track.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles)
• Duration: Around 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Stunning views of the bay, access to the beach, and proximity to the Caroline Bay Trust Aoraki Centre.

Description
This flat, paved track is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the coastline. It’s family-friendly and suitable for all ages. The area is also equipped with picnic spots and playgrounds, making it ideal for a day out.

2. Centennial Park (The Scenic) Tracks

Overview
Centennial Park, commonly known as “The Scenic,” is a 65-hectare reserve offering a variety of walking and biking trails.

Track Details

• Distance: Multiple tracks ranging from 1 to 5 kilometers (0.6 to 3.1 miles)
• Duration: 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the chosen track
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Highlights: Native bush, a duck pond, and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Description
The park features well-marked trails suitable for different fitness levels. It’s a popular spot for walking, running, and mountain biking. The presence of playgrounds and picnic areas makes it a great destination for families.

3. Otipua Wetlands Walk

Overview
The Otipua Wetlands Walk takes you through wetlands located in Timaru.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles)
• Duration: Around 45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Rich birdlife, native vegetation, and tranquil wetland scenery.

Description
This well-maintained coastal track is ideal for off-lead dog walks with beautiful views and usually a cool wind breeze right along the beach. Return via the same track or continue further along the coastline for even more views.

4. Saltwater Creek / Coonoor Road Track

Overview
This track offers a pleasant walk along Saltwater Creek, showcasing a variety of landscapes.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) one way
• Duration: About 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Views of the stream, distant mountains, and rural farmland.

Description
Start on King Street beside the bridge and follow the track along the north side of the river. This is a well-formed, gravel track mostly on the flat. Retrace your steps to return. For a shorter walk, start from Mowbray Street and exit at St George Street – 10 minutes.

5. Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point Walk

Overview
This coastal walk leads to the historic Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point lighthouse, offering spectacular views.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) return
• Duration: Around 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Coastal views, historic lighthouse, and potential wildlife sightings.

Description
The walk follows the coast to the historic Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point lighthouse, and offers spectacular views. You can walk, run or bike and the track is also dog friendly. Keep an eye out along the way as you may be lucky enough to see a seal or even a penguin on the rocky beach below.

6. Dashing Rocks Coastal Walk

Overview
Experience the beauty of Timaru’s coastline, enjoying panoramic views over Caroline Bay, wandering over ancient lava flows and examining the rocky cliffs that proved treacherous to early shipping.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) one way
• Duration: About 20 minutes one way
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Coastal views, geological features, and historical sites.

Description
Set off on this loop walk from beautiful Caroline Bay, wander the Benvenue Cliffs past the historic Blackett’s Lighthouse, and the site of ancient shipwrecks. You’ll turn right up Climie Terrace and along more cliffs where waves crash noisily on to 2 million year old lava from Mount Horrible. You’ll cross a style into a paddock at the back of Smithfield Beach just before the freezing works. Through the paddock walk up Westcott Street, and back down Richmond Street to rejoin the coastal stretch back toward Blackett’s Lighthouse

7. Pareora River Walk: A Tranquil Riverside Experience

Overview
Located a short drive south of Timaru, the Pareora River Walk offers a scenic riverside experience for those looking to enjoy a more secluded natural setting. The track meanders alongside the Pareora River, providing views of the river, native flora, and various bird species.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) round trip
• Duration: Around 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Riverside views, native vegetation, and a peaceful setting

Description
This track follows the Pareora River and is perfect for a relaxed yet immersive nature experience. Along the walk, you’ll pass through areas of native bush and cross small streams. The trail offers spots to pause, rest, and enjoy the serenity of the river’s flow. Bird watchers may spot local species such as fantails and kererū.

Facilities
The trailhead has a small parking area, but it’s recommended to bring essentials, as there are no restroom facilities available along the walk.

8. Aorangi Park and Gleniti Bush Walks: Nature Trails in Timaru’s Green Spaces

Overview
Aorangi Park and Gleniti Bush offer smaller, tranquil walking tracks within Timaru’s local parks. These tracks provide short and easy walks for families, with a focus on native flora and open green spaces.

Track Details

• Distance: Varies; typically around 1-2 kilometers (0.6-1.2 miles)
• Duration: 15-30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Native bush, open park areas, and family-friendly settings

Description
These shorter tracks are ideal for families with young children or those looking for a quick stroll. Aorangi Park’s trails feature lovely views over Timaru and access to sports facilities, while Gleniti Bush’s walk provides a lush native bush setting that’s perfect for a peaceful nature escape within the city. Both locations have picnic spots and seating areas for a leisurely visit.

Facilities
Both parks have parking, seating, and playgrounds, making them ideal for family outings. There are also restrooms nearby.

9. Patiti Point Walk: Coastal Views with a Local Flavor

Overview
Patiti Point offers a scenic walk along the Timaru coastline, known for its rocky shorelines, native plants, and sometimes even seal sightings. This walk is especially popular with locals and provides a beautiful vantage point for sunrise or sunset.

Track Details

• Distance: Approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) return
• Duration: Around 30-40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Coastal views, rocky outcrops, and wildlife sightings

Description
Patiti Point Walk follows the coast along rocky shorelines, with views of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks. The path provides a rugged coastal experience with the chance to see seals basking on the rocks, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons. This walk is also popular for fishing, and the location’s natural beauty makes it a great spot for photographers.

Facilities
There’s limited parking at Patiti Point, but no restroom facilities, so plan accordingly. This track is also dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for locals walking their pets.

Tips for Enjoying Timaru’s Walking Tracks

• Dress for the Weather: The South Island can have variable weather, so wear layers and bring a rain jacket in case of sudden changes.
• Sturdy Footwear: Many of the trails have gravel or uneven sections, so sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended.
• Bring Essentials: Most of these tracks have minimal facilities, so carry water, snacks, and a small first aid kit.
• Respect Nature: Stick to marked paths to protect the environment, and remember to take any rubbish with you.
• Plan for Scenic Stops: Many of these tracks offer excellent photo opportunities, so bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.

Why Timaru’s Walking Tracks Are Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Timaru’s walking tracks provide a diverse range of options for all ages and fitness levels. From coastal trails with sweeping ocean views to lush native bush walks, Timaru’s paths offer unique insights into the natural beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these tracks is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, experience Timaru’s scenic landscapes, and connect with the region’s rich biodiversity.

These tracks not only highlight the natural beauty of the Timaru region but also encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for those who explore them. Whether you’re looking for a quick family outing or a more challenging hike, Timaru’s walking tracks offer something for everyone to enjoy.