Find hotels in Timaru from $56

Top reasons to visit Timaru

• Picturesque Beaches: Enjoy the stunning views and relaxation at Caroline Bay, perfect for sunsets and beach activities.
• Cultural Attractions: Explore the Timaru History Museum and the beautiful botanical gardens, ideal for families and culture lovers.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities including tennis, guided tours, and underwater adventures.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels and eco-certified guesthouses.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the historic Timaru lighthouse for exploration and breathtaking views of the coast.

Find great hotels in Timaru

Discover the perfect getaway in Timaru, Canterbury, where a variety of accommodations await to suit every traveler's needs. From family-friendly motels to charming guesthouses, you can find eco-certified options and pet-friendly services that enhance your stay. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or affordable lodging, Timaru offers a range of choices for an unforgettable vacation experience.

• The Grosvenor: A charming 3-star hotel located in the heart of Timaru, The Grosvenor is ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking a blend of comfort and sustainability. With its eco-certification, this property emphasizes an environmentally friendly experience while providing excellent amenities for business travelers. Guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, equipped meeting facilities, and easy access to local attractions. This hotel is perfect for those looking to combine a business trip with eco-friendly practices during their stay.
• Aspen on King Motel: With a stellar 4.5-star rating and a guest score of 8.8, Aspen on King Motel stands out as a premier choice for eco-conscious visitors. This modern motel features comfortable, stylish rooms that cater to both leisure and business travelers. The eco-certification ensures that guests can enjoy their stay while being mindful of their environmental impact. Located conveniently in Timaru, it offers easy access to local attractions, making it a great base for exploring the area.
• Parklands Motor Lodge Timaru: This 3.5-star motel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 and offers a welcoming environment with a variety of entertainment options. Guests can unwind with LCD TVs and satellite channels in their rooms, while the property provides easy access to nearby attractions such as hospitals, theme parks, and shopping outlets. With its combination of comfort and convenience, Parklands Motor Lodge is an excellent choice for families and travelers looking to explore Timaru without sacrificing quality.

Where to stay in Timaru

Timaru offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways for travelers. Explore the charming seaside retreat along Caroline Bay, where you can relax on the beachfront or enjoy a picturesque sunset. Discover luxury and budget-friendly accommodations in the city, each providing a welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning nearby landscapes of the Canterbury region, making Timaru a delightful base for your New Zealand vacation.

• Timaru Central: Located at the heart of Timaru, Timaru Central is a vibrant neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round, particularly from December to February. This area offers a blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it perfect for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. Travelers can enjoy a variety of activities such as shopping in local boutiques, exploring recreational parks, or even hitting the nearby ski fields during the winter months. Key attractions include the picturesque beaches, serene lakes, and the expansive national state park, providing ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
• Maori Hill: Nestled within the Timaru area, Maori Hill is a charming suburb that draws visitors with its breathtaking scenery and romantic ambiance. With peak travel from December to February, this neighborhood is perfect for couples and nature enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by natural beauty, Maori Hill offers access to tranquil lakes, majestic mountains, and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking. The serene environment and stunning views make Maori Hill a must-visit destination for those looking to escape into nature.
• Waimataitai: Waimataitai is a lovely suburb located near the coast of Timaru, known for its inviting beaches and outdoor experiences. This area sees a steady flow of visitors, especially during the summer months of December to February. Travelers are drawn to Waimataitai for its beautiful beach scenery, recreational opportunities at the urban park, and the tranquil lake nearby. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely day at the beach or taking a scenic stroll, Waimataitai offers a relaxing getaway that embodies the spirit of coastal living.

Things to do in Timaru

Timaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it perfect for a romantic getaway. You can enjoy a variety of attractions, including recreational areas, shopping spots, and relaxing body treatment services. Don't miss out on underwater adventures, amusement parks, tennis courts, and guided site tours to fully experience what Timaru has to offer.

Shopping

In Timaru, visit The Plaza for a variety of shops including fashion and home goods. If you're up for a drive, head to the Timaru Farmers Market, offering local produce and handmade crafts, or check out the larger retail options at the nearby Ashburton Mall.

Recreation

In Timaru, the Comfort Inn Benvenue offers a relaxing atmosphere with wellness options like massages and spa treatments. Nearby, the Timaru Aquatic Centre features a heated pool and wellness classes, perfect for rejuvenation and fitness activities, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Canterbury region.

Adventure

In Timaru, explore the breathtaking landscapes at Caroline Bay, where you can enjoy water sports and beach activities. For thrill-seekers, the nearby Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers stunning hiking trails and rock climbing adventures amidst majestic mountain scenery.

Nightlife

In Timaru, the Caroline Bay Tavern offers a lively pub atmosphere with live music and great food. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the local cafes and bars along Stafford Street, where you can enjoy cocktails and good conversation in a cozy setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Timaru

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Timaru are May, August and October, 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Timaru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Timaru

Timaru offers a charming blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for romantic getaways. Key attractions include the history museum, botanical garden, and urban park, all catering to families and culture enthusiasts. Don't miss the iconic Timaru lighthouse, a great spot for exploration and picturesque views. Enjoy your visit to this delightful Canterbury destination.

• South Canterbury Museum: Dive into the rich history and culture of the region at the South Canterbury Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the heritage and stories of Timaru and its surroundings, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Ashbury Park: Enjoy quality family time at Ashbury Park, an urban park perfect for outdoor activities. With its spacious lawns and playgrounds, it's an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and engaging in fun activities with loved ones.
• Botanic Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a serene escape filled with lush landscapes and vibrant flora. This picturesque setting is perfect for romantic walks or family outings, making it a lovely place to relax and connect with nature.

Best time to go to Timaru

The best time to visit Timaru is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located 90 miles away, offering excellent hotel options such as LyLo Christchurch, a 5-star hostel just 0.6 mile from the airport, and Sudima Christchurch City, a 5-star hotel 5 miles away. Richard Pearse Airport (TIU) is only 7 miles from Timaru, with nearby accommodations including Aspen on King Motel, a 4.5-star rating 7 miles away, and Ashbury Park Motel, a 4-star option just 5 miles from the airport. Transportation services are readily available to access both airports from these hotels, ensuring a smooth travel experience.