In just 48 hours, you can indulge in boutique shopping, savour delicious local cuisine, discover fascinating art and history, or explore the outdoors and fantastic walk and bike trails. From admiring the stunning coastlines to holding native raptor birds, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the winter season.

    

                    

                
            
            

                
Day One
Start your winter escape weekend off at one of the hotels overlooking the stunning Caroline Bay. Bundle up in a warm jacket and start exploring the streets in the heart of Timaru. The city centre has a collection of vibrant artworks painted on the beautiful historic buildings. Take a self-guided tour using the map on Timaru Trails and explore the street art that catches your eye or take the tour in numerical order to see them all.
            
            

    

                    

                
Walk down Stafford Street and indulge in some retail therapy. Browse the shops for unique treasures, boutique fashion, gifts or homewares. We have a range of specialty stores offering boutique shopping including, Millie Rose Boutique and Black & Co through to some of the nation’s best known chain stores such as Ballantynes and Preen.
            
            

                
            
            

    

                    

                
            
            

                
As you explore, be sure to stop into the local galleries that line the street. Gallery 329, Latitude South, and Red Bird Gallery all showcase exceptional work by talented local artists. Their exhibitions are a must-see for anyone interested in the region’s creative scene.
            
            

    

                    

                
For lunch, head to the Saturday Timaru Artisan Farmers Market for a fantastic range of food from local producers who make delicious hot food, baked goods and fresh produce. Take your time browsing art, crafts, and handmade items from local artisans.
            
            

                
            
            

    

                    

                
            
            

                
Once you’ve had your market food fix, it’s time to go on a journey through the history and culture of our people at their state-of-the-art, interactive centre, Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre. Learn about our ancestors’ seasonal journeys and their practice of rock drawing. Create your own rock art, hold an ancient moa bone and shelter from Pouakai the giant eagle in the cave of the Taniwha.
            
            

    

                    

                
Enjoy a fresh, locally sourced meal at Pier 64, with great service, a welcoming atmosphere and a view of the waterfront - it’s a favourite among locals and visitors. Treat yourself to delicious cocktails to end the night at Hector Black’s Lounge Bar. This quirky bar has a buzzing atmosphere, serving regional brews, quality wines and amazing cocktails!
            
            

                
            
            

    

                    

                
            
            

                
Day 2
Make the most of the weekend by getting up early and taking an early morning walk along one of our coastal tracks to see one of Timaru’s spectacular winter sunrises! The best views can be seen from Caroline Bay or Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point. Explore more of the region’s stunning trails using the Timaru Trails app.
            
            

    

                    

                
After your morning adventure, enjoy a delicious brunch at The Oxford. This much-loved restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and a mouthwatering menu of bistro-style and European inspired dishes, perfect for refuelling after a morning walk.
            
            

                
            
            

    

                    

                
            
            

                
In the afternoon, experience something truly unique with The Raptor Experience. Get up close with New Zealand’s native birds of prey in an engaging, hands-on session. Learn about the lives of our native raptor birds, their ways of hunting, what they feed on, dangers to their safety and their cultural significance. Under expert guidance, you’ll even have the opportunity to handle the birds yourself!
            
            

    

                    

                
Take a visit to the Aigantighe Art Gallery to see their latest exhibition and collection of fabulous artworks. Explore the beautiful, newly restored heritage house, as well as the tranquil sculpture garden.
            
            

                
            
            

    

                    

                
            
            

                
Finish the weekend off by indulging in Asian-fusion cuisine at Saikou with the most delicious tapas style dishes. Pair the meal with a classic cocktail or choose from their collection of whiskeys and craft beers.