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$143 Cheap Flights to Timaru

Popular airlines to Timaru

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How much is the cheapest flight to Timaru?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $143 for one-way flights and $297 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand

What you need to know for your flight to Timaru

Flights to Timaru at a glance

Traveling to Timaru is easy; you can select from full-service or budget airlines. Compare travel times and find cheap flights to Timaru that align with your budget and schedule, allowing you to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Timaru: Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
  • Flights per week: 240+ flights arriving at Timaru airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Timaru: around 10+ carriers

Popular airport near Timaru

Timaru is a charming city perfect for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and scenic beach vacations. Travelers are drawn to its stunning landscapes and opportunities for adventure. The city is conveniently accessed via Timaru Airport, which serves as the main air travel hub for the region.

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC): Situated in the Christchurch District of Canterbury, approximately 90 miles away from Timaru, this airport operates both domestic and international flights. It connects travelers to around 6 domestic cities and 25 international destinations, with options to upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the airline and route. Notable carriers at this airport include Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and Qantas Airways.

Top routes to Timaru

  • Auckland (AKL) to Timaru (CHC), with one-way flights starting at around $40
  • Sydney (SYD) to Timaru (CHC), with one-way flights starting at around $210
  • Wellington (WLG) to Timaru (CHC), with one-way flight options from around $30
  • Queenstown (ZQN) to Timaru (CHC), with one-way tickets available from around $70
  • Melbourne (MEL) to Timaru (CHC), with one-way flight options from around $180

Cheapest routes to Timaru

  • Wellington (WLG) to Timaru (CHC), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
  • Hamilton (HLZ) to Timaru (CHC), with budget one-way fares from around $35
  • Auckland (AKL) to Timaru (CHC), with budget one-way fares from around $40
  • Queenstown (ZQN) to Timaru (CHC), with budget one-way fares from around $70
  • Nelson (NSN) to Timaru (CHC), with cheap one-way fares from around $75

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Timaru

  • Air New Zealand: Operates flights to Christchurch International Airport (CHC), representing approximately 33% of arrivals in Timaru. Travelers can expect an average one-way ticket price of around $560.
  • Jetstar: Also servicing Christchurch International Airport (CHC), Jetstar accounts for about 32% of Timaru's arrivals. The typical one-way fare is roughly $130.
  • Qantas Airways: Services Christchurch International Airport (CHC) and makes up around 15% of arrivals to Timaru. The average one-way fare is approximately $720. Depending on the route, business class may be available as a premium cabin option.
  • Emirates: Flies to Christchurch International Airport (CHC), contributing to about 5% of arrivals in Timaru. The average one-way fare is approximately $310, with business class as a possible premium cabin option based on the route.
  • Fiji Airways: Operates flights to Christchurch International Airport (CHC), accounting for around 5% of arrivals in Timaru. Average one-way fares are about $690, with potential business class service depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Timaru

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Timaru are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Timaru can reach up to 46.2°F in February. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 26.4°F. For better deals, November usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $261, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? June and February offer average one-way fares of around $282, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyHigh$304
February46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyHigh$283
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyHigh$317
April38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverage$301
May32.4°F (0.2°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLow$359
June27.1°F (-2.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage$282
July25.0°F (-3.9°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverage$395
August26.4°F (-3.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLow$292
September28.9°F (-1.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLow$326
October32.5°F (0.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$401
November38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$261
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$407

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Timaru

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Timaru is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Timaru hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Timaru flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Timaru

Timaru welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Timaru efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Christchurch International Airport, Christchurch Railway Station, a train station, is located about 5.5 miles away by car, while Wigram Seaport, a seaport, is situated approximately 5.6 miles from the airport, both easily accessible by taxi or car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Timaru, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Timaru is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Timaru on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Timaru

  • Timaru Central: Located around the area of Timaru, Timaru Central is a vibrant neighborhood perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from shopping to recreational pursuits, and even skiing during the winter months. Key attractions include the South Canterbury Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's history, the beautiful Caroline Bay Beach for sunbathing and swimming, and the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts to relax among blooming flowers.
  • Maori Hill: Situated around the area of Timaru, Maori Hill is a picturesque suburb known for its romantic ambiance and breathtaking views. Travelers will appreciate the proximity to natural wonders such as lakes and mountains, as well as the nearby national state park. Notable points of interest include Caroline Bay Beach for a beach getaway, the historic Timaru Lighthouse that showcases local culture, and Ashbury Park, a lovely urban park perfect for family outings and leisurely strolls.
  • Waimataitai: Waimataitai is located around the area of Timaru and offers a serene beach experience along with stunning outdoor scenery. This charming suburb is close to various attractions like the scenic lake, inviting beaches, and the bustling harbor. Highlights for visitors include Caroline Bay Beach, where you can unwind by the shore, Ashbury Park, an urban park great for family activities, and the historic Timaru Lighthouse, adding a cultural touch to your explorations.

Tips for short-haul flights to Timaru

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize your space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and organizing your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before boarding.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Timaru

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing the right seat is crucial for your comfort. Full-service airlines often allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have time to spare, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin acclimating your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Timaru?
July is the cheapest month to fly to Timaru. Demand is lower then, so you're likely to score a great deal. Planning your trip outside of school and public holidays can also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to Timaru?
To fly to Timaru directly, select the "Direct flights only" box when you search for trips on Expedia and we'll show you all the available options to compare.
How to find a cheap flight to Timaru?
Book your trip early for the best chance of scoring cheap flights to Timaru. Also, consider visiting during off-peak months like May and June. If you fly on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time checking every day and create a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll send you a notification when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Timaru?
It's possible to get great deals on last-minute flights to Timaru, especially if your travel plans are flexible. Consider your options for flying from a different airport, tweaking your trip dates or picking another carrier to get a cheap flight to Timaru.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Timaru?
Get the departure dates you want and a fare that works with your budget by booking your domestic flight to Timaru up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're flying to Timaru from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Timaru?
Generally, you can get cheap flights to Timaru on Sundays. Travelers can save around 8% on average compared to those who book on a Friday, which is often the most expensive day to book.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Where do you fly into Timaru?
Richard Pearse Airport (TIU) is the main hub for travelers flying to Timaru. Or you can disembark at Oamaru (OAM). Compare fares between the two airports to find the easiest or cheapest way to fly to Timaru.
How far is the airport from central Timaru?
If you're jetting into Richard Pearse Airport (TIU), you'll be approximately 7 mi north of central Timaru.
Can I save money by booking a Timaru trip package?
Book a Timaru flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could make significant savings. It's easy to bundle your accommodations and flights, and you can also add car rentals and tours to create your own customized Timaru trip. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Timaru?
You can typically change or cancel your flight to Timaru within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued a credit toward a future flight rather than a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's rules and restrictions in your itinerary for specific details. Use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Timaru with flexible change policies. To learn more, browse our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Richard Pearse
Destination airport IATA code
TIU
Destination city name
Timaru
Roundtrip price
$297

Trending flights to Timaru

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $143 for one-way flights and $297 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Air New Zealand