Cheap Hotels in Timaru

  • Upfront pricing

    Our total price for your stay includes taxes and fees

  • Treat yourself

    Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with Member Prices
    Learn about One Key

  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Timaru Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for Timaru cheap hotels

Exterior

Stay Timaru

Stay Timaru
1.0 star property
Seaview
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (5 reviews)
"Met all my needs as required so would recommend this establishment"
New Zealand
Tony
Stay Timaru
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

Find out more about Timaru

Discover cheap things to do in Timaru

Timaru, nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island, offers a delightful mix of affordable attractions and activities perfect for families and . Start your day at the stunning Caroline Bay, where you can enjoy a morning stroll along the beach or let the kids play in the nearby playground, all without spending a dime. Just a short walk away, the Timaru Botanic Gardens boast beautiful landscapes and picnic spots, making it an ideal place for a family outing. For a taste of local culture, visit the Aigantighe Art Gallery, which features a diverse collection of artworks and often hosts free exhibitions. Adventure seekers can explore the scenic coastal walks, with the iconic Timaru Breakwater providing stunning views of the ocean and, occasionally, playful seals. After a day of exploration, unwind at one of the many cheap yet comfortable hotels in the downtown area, where convenient access to eateries and shops allows for a seamless experience. Enjoy dining at local cafes offering delicious, budget-friendly meals, perfect for those wanting to indulge without breaking the bank.

Find the best cheap hotels in Timaru

For travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodations in Timaru, Canterbury, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising comfort. Each option provides essential amenities to enhance your stay.

Anchor Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a remarkable review rating of 10.0, the Anchor Motel is perfect for budget travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Guests will enjoy free WiFi and self-parking, along with kitchenettes that allow for easy meal preparation. The motel's nearby the beach adds to its appeal, providing a relaxing atmosphere for guests.
  • Other amenities: This motel features ovens in the rooms, along with microwaves and refrigerators for added convenience. Travelers can also enjoy daily housekeeping services and the option for rollaway beds at no extra charge. With a friendly atmosphere and great nearby golf opportunities, the Anchor Motel caters to various traveler needs.
  • Neighborhood: Maori Hill
  • Nearby attractions: Ashbury Park - 0.22 miles, Caroline Bay Beach - 0.33 miles, Timaru Lighthouse - 0.35 miles

Fitzgerald on King

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Fitzgerald on King offers an unbeatable value for budget-conscious travelers, an outstanding review rating of 10.0. Guests can expect free WiFi, self-parking, and complimentary toiletries to enhance their stay. The in-room kitchen facilities allow for a comfortable and convenient experience during their visit to Timaru.
  • Other amenities: The hotel includes daily housekeeping to maintain cleanliness and comfort throughout your stay. Guests will find ovens, stovetops, and microwaves in their rooms, along with electric kettles and toasters for easy meal preparation. This inviting motel ensures a pleasant experience for all travelers looking for budget-friendly options.
  • Neighborhood: Parkside
  • Nearby attractions: Botanical Gardens - 0.19 miles, Patiti Point - 0.71 miles

Harbour View Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Harbour View Motel stands out for its exceptional value, receiving a perfect review rating of 10.0. This budget-friendly option offers free WiFi and self-parking, making it easy for guests to access local attractions. With kitchenettes and additional cooking amenities, travelers can enjoy the comfort of home while taking in the nearby beach and ocean views.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of a range of useful features, including air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and full-size refrigerators. The motel also boasts an oven and dishwasher in selected rooms, ensuring convenience for longer stays. With access to sandy beaches and off-street parking, it's an excellent choice for those looking to unwind in Timaru.
  • Neighborhood: Maori Hill
  • Nearby attractions: Ashbury Park - 0.65 miles, Caroline Bay Beach - 0.63 miles, Aigantighe Art Gallery - 0.55 miles

Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers, an impressive review rating of 10.0. Guests will appreciate the free toiletries and WiFi, along with self-parking facilities to ensure convenience during their stay. The lodge also features kitchenettes in rooms, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and enjoy the nearby sea views.
  • Other amenities: This lodge offers a range of additional features, including air conditioning for comfort, daily housekeeping, and a stovetop for easy cooking. Guests can also enjoy a refrigerator and microwave for added convenience, as well as electric kettles for hot beverages. Nearby beach access and a picturesque location enhance the overall experience, making it a fantastic base for exploring Timaru.
  • Neighborhood: Maori Hill
  • Nearby attractions: Aigantighe Art Gallery - 0.32 miles, South Canterbury Museum - 0.61 miles, Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden - 0.69 miles

Aaron Court Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Aaron Court Motel provides budget-friendly accommodations with a solid review rating of 7.6, making it a suitable option for travelers on a budget. The motel offers free WiFi and self-parking, ensuring guests can stay connected and have peace of mind regarding their vehicles. With kitchen facilities, guests can indulge in home-cooked meals during their stay.
  • Other amenities: This motel features inviting patios and balconies, perfect for enjoying the fresh air. The rooms come equipped with kitchen islands, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, and toasters for convenient meal prep. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, making it a comfortable place to relax after a day of exploring the area.
  • Neighborhood: Maori Hill
  • Nearby attractions: Ashbury Park - 0.28 miles, Caroline Bay Beach - 0.39 miles, Timaru Lighthouse - 0.41 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Timaru?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Timaru

  1. If you're looking to travel to Timaru on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as . Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as . Staying a short amount of time in Timaru is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Timaru, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Timaru, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Timaru, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Timaru Hotel Reviews

The Grosvenor

The Grosvenor

10/10 Excellent
"Everything was perfect and the room very clean A most enjoyable stay"
Richard 1-night trip
Posted 11 days ago
The Grosvenor
Anchor Motel

Anchor Motel

10/10 Excellent
"it was all great."
Jade 3-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Anchor Motel

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Timaru as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers in Timaru, excellent options include ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, Asure Ashley Motor Lodge, Cedar Lodge Motel, Harbour View Motel, and Panorama Motor Lodge.

ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge is a 3-star property with an impressive 9.4 rating, offering valuable amenities like free toiletries, complimentary cribs, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Each room also includes a kitchen, which is ideal for saving on dining expenses. It is conveniently located near Otipua Wetland and the Botanical Gardens.

Another great choice is the 3-star Asure Ashley Motor Lodge, also rated 9.4. This lodge provides free toiletries, free WiFi, free self-parking, and rooms equipped with kitchens, ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective stay. Nearby attractions include Otipua Wetland and Patiti Point.

Cedar Lodge Motel, a 3-star establishment with a 9.4 rating, offers free self-parking, free toiletries, free cribs, and free WiFi. Guests particularly appreciate the friendly staff and the pleasant location. It's situated close to the Botanical Gardens and the South Canterbury Museum.

Harbour View Motel, rated 9.2, provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and rooms with kitchens. Its parking options include off-street, accessible, and secured self-parking, adding to the convenience. Guests often praise the spacious rooms and excellent parking facilities. The motel is near the Botanic Gardens and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Panorama Motor Lodge, a 3-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, features free self-parking, free WiFi, and kitchens in its rooms. Many rooms offer mountain views, and the property provides off-street and accessible parking.
How much does a budget hotel in Timaru cost?
Budget hotel prices in Timaru vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—off-peak and mid-week stays are typically cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Timaru is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Timaru, the central business district and areas immediately surrounding it offer the most accessible and affordable options. This area provides convenient access to amenities and attractions without needing extensive transportation.

In the central business district, you'll find a concentration of motels and guesthouses that cater to various budgets, often within walking distance of shops, cafes, and the Caroline Bay Beach. Solo travellers can enjoy strolls along the beach, explore the Timaru Botanic Gardens, or visit the South Canterbury Museum, many of which are free activities. The compact nature of the town centre means that even without a car, many points of interest are easily reachable on foot.

Additionally, areas slightly outside the immediate city centre but still within a short walk or quick public bus ride, such as those along Stafford Street or near the Port Loop Road, may offer even more economical choices. These locations still provide good access to the town's offerings while potentially reducing accommodation costs further.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Timaru?
For families seeking top-rated yet affordable accommodations in Timaru, excellent options include Cedar Lodge Motel, ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, and Asure Ashley Motor Lodge.

Cedar Lodge Motel, a 3-star property with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers families great value with free self-parking, complimentary toiletries, and free WiFi. Guests particularly appreciate the free cribs and the convenience of a kitchen in their rooms. Reviewers frequently highlight the staff as "absolutely amazing" and "friendly," and praise the "lovely" location. It is conveniently situated near Otipua Wetland and the Botanical Gardens.

ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, also a 3-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, provides families with free toiletries, free cribs, and complimentary WiFi, along with free self-parking and a kitchen for added convenience. This lodge is close to the Botanical Gardens and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Another fantastic choice is Asure Ashley Motor Lodge, a 3-star establishment boasting a 9.4 review rating. Families will find value in the free toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking, along with the included kitchen facilities and cribs. It's located near popular spots like Otipua Wetland and Patiti Point.

Harbour View Motel, with a strong 9.2 rating, offers families free self-parking, free WiFi, and a kitchen in their rooms, along with off-street and accessible parking options. Guests often comment on the "nice, spacious" rooms and "great" parking. This motel is close to the Botanic Gardens and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Bay City Motor Lodge, a 3-star hotel rated 8.4, provides families with free toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a practical and budget-friendly choice.
When is the most affordable time to visit Timaru?
The most affordable time to visit Timaru is generally during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), avoiding the peak summer months and major school holidays. During these periods, you'll often find better deals on accommodation and potentially lower airfares into Christchurch, the nearest major international airport.

For solo travellers, these shoulder seasons offer a quieter experience, with fewer crowds at popular attractions like the Timaru Botanic Gardens or Caroline Bay. You can enjoy the mild weather, great for exploring the city's coastal walks or cycling along the scenic paths, often without the need for expensive tour groups.
Is Timaru a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Timaru is a budget-friendly destination, especially for travellers looking to explore New Zealand's South Island without the higher costs of larger tourist hubs. Its smaller size and focus on local experiences contribute to more affordable accommodation, dining, and activities.

For solo travellers and couples, Timaru offers a range of free and low-cost attractions. You can enjoy walks along Caroline Bay, known for its beautiful rose gardens and playground, or explore the Timaru Botanic Gardens. The Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre provides an insightful cultural experience, often with a modest entry fee. Dining at local cafes and takeaway spots, particularly those outside the main tourist areas, will also be considerably cheaper than in more prominent cities.

Accommodation options in Timaru are generally more economical, with motels and holiday parks offering good value.
What cheap hotels in Timaru offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Timaru that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent choices: ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, Asure Ashley Motor Lodge, Cedar Lodge Motel, Harbour View Motel, and Panorama Motor Lodge.

The 3-star ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides free WiFi and free self-parking, along with the convenience of a kitchen in its rooms. It's located near the Otipua Wetland and Botanical Gardens.

Another 3-star option, Asure Ashley Motor Lodge, also boasts a 9.4 review score and features kitchens in its accommodations. Guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and free self-parking. Nearby attractions include the Otipua Wetland and Patiti Point.

Cedar Lodge Motel, a 3-star property rated 9.4, offers kitchenettes, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly staff and the nice location. It's close to the Otipua Wetland and South Canterbury Museum.

Harbour View Motel, with a 9.2 rating, provides kitchens and free self-parking, including secured options. Guests appreciate the nice, spacious rooms and great parking. It is conveniently situated near the Botanic Gardens and Dashing Rocks Beach.

The 3-star Panorama Motor Lodge, rated 8.8, includes kitchens in its rooms, along with free WiFi and free self-parking. Many rooms offer mountain views. Visitors often praise its nice location and clean rooms. Points of interest like the Aigantighe Art Gallery and Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden are easily accessible.
Which cheap hotels in Timaru have good reviews for customer service?
For budget-friendly hotels in Timaru with great customer service, travellers frequently recommend Cedar Lodge Motel, Panorama Motor Lodge, The Grosvenor, and Aaron Court Motel.

Cedar Lodge Motel, a 3-star property with an impressive 9.4 rating, consistently receives praise for its absolutely amazing and friendly staff. Guests can enjoy practical amenities such as free self-parking, complimentary toiletries, free cribs, free WiFi, and convenient in-room kitchens. It is located near Otipua Wetland and the Botanical Gardens.

Panorama Motor Lodge, also a 3-star hotel, boasts an 8.8 review score, with customers highlighting its great service. This lodge offers free self-parking, free WiFi, and kitchens in its rooms, along with mountain views and accessible parking. It's conveniently close to the Botanical Gardens and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

The Grosvenor, a 3-star hotel rated 7.8, is known for its friendly and helpful staff and overall friendly service. Guests benefit from free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries. This hotel is situated near the Botanical Gardens and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Aaron Court Motel, with a 7.0 rating, is recognized for its friendly and helpful staff. Amenities include free self-parking, free WiFi, and kitchens, with some rooms featuring balconies or patios.
Are there any cheap hotels in Timaru that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, there are a couple of budget-friendly hotels in Timaru that offer flexibility for late check-out or early check-in.

ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge, a 3-star property with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers the convenience of late check-out. Guests appreciate the complimentary toiletries, free cribs, free WiFi, and free self-parking. It also provides kitchen facilities, which is a great value amenity for longer stays. This lodge is conveniently located near the Otipua Wetland, Botanical Gardens, and Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Another excellent option is Bay City Motor Lodge, also a 3-star hotel with an 8.4 rating, which allows for both early check-in and late check-out, though specific times may vary. This lodge provides free toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Timaru with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Timaru. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock discounted Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book a Timaru hotel and flight package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect vacation package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Timaru for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia