Timaru, located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, offers a diverse range of attractions for tourists. This charming town boasts a lively bar scene and welcoming locals, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a friendly atmosphere. Visitors can choose from luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, and explore the town's opera house, bustling port, and picturesque countryside. Additionally, Timaru offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as running and walking, as well as rejuvenating spa experiences. With its unique blend of attractions, Timaru is a must-visit destination in Canterbury.

Timaru Hotels from โน5,623
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Our top choices for Timaru hotels




1. The Grosvenor
The Grosvenor



2. The Sea Breeze
The Sea Breeze



3. Anchor Motel
Anchor Motel



4. ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge
ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge



5. Aaron Court Motel
Aaron Court Motel



6. Aspen on King Motel
Aspen on King Motel



7. Panorama Motor Lodge
Panorama Motor Lodge



8. Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru
Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru



9. Comfort Hotel Benvenue
Comfort Hotel Benvenue



10. Harbour View Motel
Harbour View Motel



11. Baywatch Motor Lodge
Baywatch Motor Lodge



12. Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge
Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge



13. Blue Dolphin Motel
Blue Dolphin Motel



14. Ashbury Park Motel
Ashbury Park Motel



15. Bay City Motor Lodge
Bay City Motor Lodge



16. Coastal Ridge Apartments
Coastal Ridge Apartments



17. Cedar Lodge Motel
Cedar Lodge Motel



18. Fitzgerald on King
Fitzgerald on King



19. The Fort. Timaru
The Fort. Timaru



20. Asure Ashley Motor Lodge
Asure Ashley Motor LodgeWhere to stay in Timaru

Timaru Central
If you're spending some time in Timaru Central, South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre are top sights worth seeing.
Maori Hill
While visiting Maori Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Timaru Lighthouse and Ashbury Park.
West End
While West End isn't home to many top sights, Aigantighe Art Gallery and South Canterbury Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.
Waimataitai
While visiting Waimataitai, you might make a stop by sights like Ashbury Park and Dashing Rocks Beach.
Seaview
Though Seaview may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like South Canterbury Museum and Timaru Lighthouse.
Stay near popular Timaru attractions
Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden
Caroline Bay Beach
South Canterbury Museum
Ashbury Park
Timaru Lighthouse
Washdyke Lagoon Wildlife Refuge
Aigantighe Art Gallery
Botanical Gardens
Learn more about Timaru
Nestled along a picturesque coastline, Caroline Bay Beach invites visitors to swim and relax before exploring the fascinating South Canterbury Museum. Wander through the fragrant Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden or spot native birds at Washdyke Lagoon Wildlife Refuge for a perfect blend of culture and nature.
See all hotels in Timaru
Top Timaru Hotel Reviews
Coastal Ridge Apartments
"Very clean and comfortable, easy parking."
ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge
"Great sized rooms, comfortable beds, nice rooms, very clean. Super easy stop over option"
Anchor Motel
"The owner is lovely,so welcoming and friendly!"
The Sea Breeze
"Parking in some area very small and hard to move vehicle"
The Grosvenor
"large spacious suit room. fluffy white towels. mini fridge that was silent. Brillant shower. Helpful friendly staff. Loved the lift it was like stepping back in time. Bar/restaurant staff were very helpful and fun to be around. Would stay again."
Bay City Motor Lodge
"Great motel. My place to go when Iโm in town."
Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru
"Clean spacious room. Comfortable."
Baywatch Motor Lodge
"great view of the sunrise"
Harbour View Motel
"Great location, cool view of the port"
More cheap stays in Timaru

Aaron Court Motel

Anchor Motel

Four Peaks Motel

Harbour View Motel

Fitzgerald on King

The Sea Breeze
Find out more about Timaru
Discover scenic beauty and charm in Timaru, New Zealand
Top reasons to visit Timaru
- Timaru Airport: Experience the energy and excitement of a busy regional airport in Timaru.
- Tuhawaiki Point: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal beauty and tranquility of Tuhawaiki Point.
- South Canterbury Museum: Uncover the rich history of the region through fascinating exhibits and stories at the South Canterbury Museum.
- Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden: Indulge your senses in the vibrant colours and captivating scents of the beautiful flowers at Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden.
- DB Brewery: Delight in the flavours of locally brewed beers at DB Brewery.
Find your hotel in Timaru
Timaru offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget motels, you'll find the perfect place to stay in this charming Canterbury town.
- Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge - This 2.5-star motel is known for its friendly staff and affordable prices. It offers a range of amenities including a bar, spa, and easy access to the opera and port. Perfect for those who enjoy running or walking in the countryside.
- Comfort Hotel Benvenue - With a 3.5-star rating, this hotel offers sea views and a fitness center. It also has a bar, business facilities, and is family-friendly. Laundry facilities and tours are available, and it's conveniently located near the port.
- The Grosvenor - This 3.0-star hotel features a casino and a bar. It offers connecting rooms and is pet-friendly. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of the beach and access room service. It's also close to the business district and port.
Stay in Timaru for a delightful holiday experience. With a variety of accommodation options, you'll find the perfect hotel to suit your needs. Explore the charming town, enjoy the beautiful countryside, and take advantage of the accessible facilities and friendly atmosphere. Book your hotel in Timaru today for an unforgettable holiday in Canterbury, New Zealand.
Explore the best places to visit and stay in Timaru
Timaru is a vibrant city in Canterbury, New Zealand, with several exciting areas to explore. Whether you're looking for a lively bar scene, luxury accommodation, budget-friendly options, beautiful countryside, or relaxing spa experiences, Timaru has it all.
- Timaru Central: This area is the heart of Timaru, offering a range of amenities and activities. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, visit the local bars, and explore the luxury and budget accommodation options. Don't miss the stunning views of the port and the opportunity for scenic walks and countryside adventures.
- Maori Hill: Situated in the north side of Timaru, Maori Hill offers a mix of upscale and affordable options. Immerse yourself in the friendly local culture, enjoy the bar scene, and indulge in luxury spa experiences. Take advantage of the beautiful walking and running trails in this picturesque area.
- Parkside: Located near Timaru's coast, Parkside is a charming locality with a range of attractions. Discover the local opera scene, explore the port area, and enjoy the peaceful countryside surroundings. Take leisurely walks or relax in one of the spas to fully unwind and enjoy your holiday.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Timaru
Timaru offers a unique blend of experiences and attractions for a memorable holiday. Visit Timaru Airport to witness the bustling atmosphere of a busy regional airport. Explore Tuhawaiki Point, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and tranquil surroundings. Discover the rich history of the region at the South Canterbury Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the past. Take a stroll through the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden and marvel at the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of the beautiful flowers. For beer enthusiasts, a visit to DB Brewery is a must, where you can indulge in a taste of locally brewed beers. With its friendly people, stunning countryside, and a range of activities like running, walking, and spa treatments, Timaru promises an unforgettable holiday.
- Timaru Airport: Experience the energy and excitement of a busy regional airport in Timaru.
- Tuhawaiki Point: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal beauty and tranquility of Tuhawaiki Point.
- South Canterbury Museum: Uncover the rich history of the region through fascinating exhibits and stories at the South Canterbury Museum.
- Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden: Indulge your senses in the vibrant colors and captivating scents of the beautiful flowers at Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden.
- DB Brewery: Delight in the flavors of locally brewed beers at DB Brewery.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Timaru
- Use the search filters on Expedia to find accommodation that fits your budget and preferences.
- Consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or hostel in Timaru to save money.
- Look for hotels that offer discounted rates or special promotions for tourists.
- Take advantage of off-peak travel times, such as May to July, when hotel prices may be lower.
- Explore different accommodation options in Timaru, including luxury hotels, budget hotels, and bed and breakfasts.
- Enjoy the friendly atmosphere in Timaru and interact with the locals for recommendations on affordable places to stay.
- Take advantage of the running and walking opportunities in Timaru by choosing accommodation near scenic routes or parks.
- Consider staying in accommodation near the port or countryside for a unique experience in Timaru.
- Relax and rejuvenate by choosing accommodation with spa facilities in Timaru.
- Don't miss out on the opera performances in Timaru and choose accommodation near the opera house for convenience.
- Keep an eye out for any package deals or discounts offered by hotels in Timaru for a cost-effective stay.
- Consider using the Expedia Rewards program to earn points and save even more on your hotel bookings in Timaru.
Discover the flavours of Timaru
When it comes to local cuisine in Timaru, there are plenty of highlights and unique dishes to experience. One popular restaurant in the area is TGB Restaurant, known for its innovative and delicious dishes crafted by world-class chefs. Another option is Timaru Restaurant, which offers high-end high teas and rooftop terrace dining with sunset cocktails. Coffee shops and hotels in Timaru also offer a variety of dining experiences, from indulging in brunch while spotting yachts at Yas Marina to enjoying spectacular views in a revolving restaurant. Whether you're craving international flavours or local delicacies, Timaru has something to satisfy every palate.
If you're looking for Asian cuisine in Timaru, there are several popular restaurants to choose from. Wonton Magic Chinese Takeaways offers authentic Chinese dishes, while Sukhothai Thai Restaurant & Bar serves up delicious Thai cuisine. Naruwan Asian Cuisine is another option, offering a diverse menu of Asian dishes. Each restaurant brings its own culinary style and flavours to the table, providing a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike.
Best time to go to Timaru
Timaru boasts a year-around average temperature of 10.9ยฐC, peaking at 15.3ยฐC in January, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 6.4ยฐC in July, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 79.4mm annually, with December seeing the heaviest showers and July being the driest month.
Month![]() | Temperature (Celcius)![]() | Rainfall (mm)![]() |
| January | 15.3 | 84.8 |
| February | 15.0 | 79.0 |
| March | 13.5 | 76.2 |
| April | 11.3 | 69.3 |
| May | 8.8 | 76.2 |
| June | 6.9 | 80.3 |
| July | 6.4 | 68.8 |
| August | 7.3 | 72.1 |
| September | 8.8 | 79.8 |
| October | 11.1 | 88.4 |
| November | 12.6 | 88.4 |
| December | 14.2 | 88.9 |
The nearest major airports for your trip to Timaru
Flying into Timaru is convenient with two major airports nearby. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located approximately 145km from Timaru, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both 10km away, and the 5-star LyLo Christchurch just 966m from the airport. Transportation services include accessible airport shuttles. Alternatively, Richard Pearse Airport (TIU) is a mere 11km from Timaru, with quality accommodations like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, situated 5 to 11km from the airport, providing easy access for travellers.
The Timaru info point: What you need to know
Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What is Timaru known for? | Beautiful beaches, Victorian architecture |
| Most popular month? | December, January, February |
| Length of Stay | 2-3 days |
| Weather | Mild and temperate year-round |
| Don't miss | Caroline Bay, Aigantighe Art Gallery, Te Ana Maori Rock Art |
| Cuisine | Fresh seafood, New Zealand lamb |
| Where to go | Caroline Bay, Timaru Botanic Gardens, South Canterbury Museum |



