Timaru
Timaru is a charming town half way between Christchurch and Dunedin and has one of the major ports in the country. It is a farming community built on the lava flows of an ancient eruption. Many of the town’s historic buildings from the Edwardian and Victorian era are made from the bluestone byproduct of this event. The streets are a charming mix of trees and flowers connected by paved walkways and squares. The backdrop of the Southern Alps is in stark contrast to the large harbour which it looks out across. Caroline Bay has become the City’s main attraction, offering safe swimming and a large piazza in which to relax. There is a mini putt, roller skating rink and maze to keep the young at heart amused. Cafes and Restaurants line the area creating a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The major feature of the piazza is Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden.
The gardens offer perfectly manicured roses, a fountain, pools and shady rest areas. There are playgrounds and picnic areas along the beachfront which becomes a hive of activity over the festive break when the Christmas New Year carnival is held. The South Canterbury Museum contains an impressive collection of fossils, Maori rock art and a comprehensive history of the Canterbury region and its seafaring past. There is also a portrayal of local inventor Richard Pearse who is considered to be the first in the world to fly. The Art Gallery is the third largest in the South Island and exhibits Pacific, Asian and European works as well as a sculpture garden. The DB Mainland Brewery in town offers tastings and tours. Timaru is surrounded by inland lakes providing the perfect playground in summer for waterskiing, boating, windsurfing and fishing. The rivers of Rangitata and Pareora are well known for good trout and salmon fishing as well as being great swimming spots. Five well known ski fields are under a two hour drive away.
Accommodation in Timaru ranges from Hotels and Motels through to Backpackers and Holiday Parks. Some of the bed and breakfasts offer their southern hospitality from historic homes and friendly farms. The small township of Temuka is a 15 minute drive away. The main attraction is the ceramic cook and table ware factory of Temuka Pottery. The rivers here are popular for fishing for salmon, trout and whitebait. There is a cheese factory which is open for tastings and showcases the region’s dairy farming heritage. Timaru has a good selection of dining options due to its rise in popularity as a tourist destination.