Find hotels in Timaru from NT$1,836

Top reasons to visit Timaru

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Caroline Bay, perfect for relaxing and family-friendly activities.
• Timaru Botanic Gardens: Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant flower displays at this picturesque garden.
• Timaru Lighthouse: Visit this iconic landmark for breathtaking views and a glimpse into the town's maritime history.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Discover local museums and charming cafes that showcase the town's heritage and culinary delights.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodging options, including pet-friendly motels and cozy guesthouses.

Find great hotels in Timaru

Timaru offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs, from cozy motels to welcoming guesthouses. Whether you’re seeking a pet-friendly place, eco-certified lodging, or a family-friendly environment, you'll find excellent choices throughout the area. Discover the perfect Timaru hotel or motel for your stay and enjoy a memorable vacation in this charming part of Canterbury.

• The Grosvenor: Located in the heart of Timaru, The Grosvenor is a charming 3-star hotel that caters to eco-conscious travelers and business professionals alike. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this eco-certified property offers a sustainable lodging experience. Guests appreciate the hotel's commitment to eco-friendly practices while enjoying comfortable accommodations. The Grosvenor’s amenities include business facilities, making it an excellent choice for those traveling for work while also being mindful of their environmental footprint.
• Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru: A step above the ordinary, Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru is a 3.5-star motel boasting a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This property is well-equipped for both leisure and business travelers, featuring entertainment options such as LCD TVs and satellite television in each room. With nearby attractions like theme parks and shopping outlets, Parklands offers guests a variety of activities to enjoy during their stay. The motel's convenient location also provides easy access to essential services, including a laundromat and hospital.
• Aspen on King Motel: For those seeking a luxurious yet eco-friendly stay, Aspen on King Motel stands out with its impressive 4.5-star rating and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This modern motel is designed for eco-conscious travelers, ensuring a comfortable and sustainable experience. The property features well-appointed rooms and a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Its location in Timaru makes it a great base for exploring the area, while also providing a serene atmosphere for relaxation after a day of adventure.

Where to stay in and around Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for every traveler. Explore Central Timaru for its friendly atmosphere and convenient access to attractions. Families will love the nearby Caroline Bay, known for its stunning beach and playgrounds. Don’t miss the hidden gems of the South Island, such as the picturesque botanical gardens and charming local cafes that cater to both luxury and budget travelers alike.

• Scarborough: Nestled only 3km from Timaru, Scarborough is a picturesque village renowned for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and adventurous spirit. Its visitor numbers tend to peak during the summer months from December to February, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and fresh air. Popular activities include outdoor recreation and running, with easy access to stunning natural features such as mountains and lakes. The nearby national state park offers a fantastic backdrop for hiking and exploring, making Scarborough a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Fairview: Also located 3km from Timaru, Fairview is a charming suburb that attracts visitors with its outdoor adventures and scenic vistas. Like Scarborough, Fairview sees its peak tourism from December to February, drawing those who enjoy activities like skiing and exploring beautiful recreational areas. The nearby national park and beach provide ample opportunities for adventure, while the stunning canyon gorge adds a unique touch to the landscape. With its moderate seasonal appeal, Fairview is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy thrilling activities.
• Timaru Central: Situated around the heart of Timaru, Timaru Central is a vibrant neighborhood that attracts a steady flow of visitors year-round. Peak travel times occur between December and February, as travelers flock to enjoy the area's outdoor offerings and scenic beauty. Popular attractions include shopping areas and recreational spots, along with access to nearby beaches, lakes, and mountains for those seeking adventure. Timaru Central serves as a hub for both relaxation and exploration, making it an excellent base for your vacation.

Things to do in Timaru

Shopping

In Timaru, explore the local shops along Stafford Street, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Timaru Farmers' Market for fresh produce and artisan goods, or head to The Plaza for a wider range of retail options just a bit further out.

Recreation

Timaru's Caroline Bay offers a peaceful beach experience with scenic walks along the shoreline, ideal for relaxation. The Aoraki Wellness Centre provides rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga classes, and holistic therapies to help you unwind and recharge during your stay in this charming coastal town.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of the South Pacific at Caroline Bay, where you can enjoy beach activities, swimming, and scenic walks along the coastline. For a thrill, try kite surfing or windsurfing in the clear waters, offering an exhilarating experience amidst breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The White Horse Hotel on Stafford Street, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with pub fare and drinks. For a cozy vibe, visit The Oxford on the corner of Strathallan Street for great cocktails and a relaxed setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Timaru

Timaru is budget-friendly for travelers, offering free entry to attractions like Ashbury Park. To save on transportation, consider using local buses, which are economical. The best months to visit for lower prices are August and October to November, while Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, in contrast to more costly Saturdays. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels by sorting prices and filtering for eco-certified options. Bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can also lead to significant savings, ensuring an enjoyable yet economical trip.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Timaru are August and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Timaru is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Timaru is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you customize your travel preferences by setting your budget, choosing your ideal location, and more. You can easily sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Timaru with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Timaru

Timaru, located in Canterbury, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore top attractions like the Timaru Botanic Gardens and the Timaru Lighthouse, alongside historical museums and beautiful flower gardens. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or a peaceful retreat, Timaru's diverse points of interest cater to all types of travelers.

• South Canterbury Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region at the South Canterbury Museum, where you can explore exhibits that highlight local culture, art, and natural history. The museum's engaging displays provide a deeper understanding of Timaru's past and its significance in New Zealand's heritage.
• Ashbury Park: Enjoy a relaxing day at Ashbury Park, a vibrant urban park ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery, playgrounds, and picnic areas, this park offers a perfect setting to unwind and connect with nature while taking in views of the city.
• Timaru Lighthouse: Visit the historic Timaru Lighthouse, a stunning landmark that showcases the area's maritime history. The surrounding area provides picturesque views of the coastline, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the scenic beauty of Timaru.

Best time to go to Timaru

The best time to visit Timaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Timaru falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Timaru falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Timaru

Traveling to Timaru, New Zealand, can be done via two main airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is 145km away, with nearby hotel options like Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both 5-star rated and about 10km from the airport. Transportation services include accessible airport shuttles available on request. The closer option is Richard Pearse Airport (TIU), located 11km from Timaru. Good hotel choices near TIU include the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, both offering convenient access to the airport.