Top winter activities in the Timaru District
From wildlife encounters to stunning winter scenery, the Timaru District is filled with unforgettable winter experiences. Here are our top winter picks.
The Raptor Experience
Get up close with New Zealand's raptors in a unique, hands-on experience. 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.
This is a fantastic opportunity to handle the birds under the guidance of an experienced handler. This unique raptor experience is one we highly recommend you do.
CPlay
Experience the award-winning CPlay Playground at Caroline Bay, the largest playground in the Southern Hemisphere! Climb aboard a shipwreck, conquer a towering 10m high lighthouse slide, explore the mahika kai-inspired play zone, and soar through the air on a 50-meter tandem flying fox.
The playground design was inspired by the Caroline Bay environment, Māori and European stories, history, and heritage. With over 40 pieces of play equipment this playground is great fun for both kids and adults.
Mesopotamia
Take a road trip to the beautiful Mesopotamia, an area of outstanding natural beauty, fascinating pioneering history and outdoor adventures.
Take an Alps 2 Ocean Road 2 Mesopotamia Tour and enjoy the guided tour through the most breathtaking scenery of the Sothern Alps. Travel by 4WD deep into the remote backcountry, exploring the history of the high country stations that farm on the land. With panoramic views, fascinating local stories and plenty of photo stops along the way this is an unforgettable way to experience this part of the country.
Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre
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. They are the kaitiaki (guardians) of one of the most significant collections of ancient Māori rock art in the country.
Learn about our ancestors seasonal journeys and practice of rock drawing. Create your own rock art, hold an ancient moa bone, shelter from Pouakai the giant eagle in the cave of the Taniwha and more!
Horse Trekking
Some of the most beautiful winter landscapes are best experienced by horseback. With Real Kiwi Horse Trekking, wind your way through the countryside with breathtaking views of snowy mountains, glacial fed rivers and the Canterbury plains.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, they have horses suitable for all ages and riding abilities. This incredible experience is only a 2.5 hour drive from Christchurch and 15km off the Inland Scenic Route (HW72) en-route to Mount Cook and Queenstown.
Trails
Timaru District is an adventurers dream with over 40 walking and biking tracks! From easy short walks to more advanced long hikes there’s something for everyone. Pack picnic and take the kids on walk or bike to burn off the winter cabin fever.
In Timaru enjoy scenic walks along Caroline Bay and nearby coastal tracks, taking in lighthouses, volcanic cliffs and stunning beaches. Or head inland and walk amongst the giants of the forest discovering waterfalls and native birds.
Find all of the tracks on our website here, on the Timaru Trails app, or Timaru Trails web version.