Central South Island
In the heart of the South Island is a region of sweeping plains, rolling hills and unspoiled coastline. Set against a backdrop of the spectacular Southern Alps, the Central South Island is diverse, authentic, and full of unexpected discoveries. Stunning landscapes, adventure and outdoor recreation activities and art and cultural experiences are a feature of the Central South Island region, a place of welcoming people where genuine Kiwi hospitality thrives.
Timaru, with its striking piazza with stunning views over Caroline Bay, heritage architecture and treasured galleries and museums is the pivotal heart of the region, and Canterbury's second city. It is perfectly placed for you to explore the outdoors and the surrounding region comprising the quintessential Kiwi towns of Geraldine, Peel Forest, Pleasant Point and Temuka, and the stunning scenic landscapes the Central South Island has to offer.
Find out more about the Central South Island or call +64 3 688 6163 or e mail
Timaru is the principal town of the Central South Island - a short two hour drive from Christchurch, heading south-west down State Highway 1. Getting there or being there, here are some of the itinerary highlights
Central South Island Itinerary Highlights
| A bit of a thrill | |
| Rangitata Rafts - white water ... white knuckles!! | |
| Must See! | |
| Belanger-Taylor Glass Studio and Showroom | |
| Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum | |
| Sixteenth Century Maori rock art | |
| Aigantighe Art Gallery | |
| Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden | |
| South Canterbury Museum | |
| Landing Service Building | |
| Temuka Pottery Shop | |
| Must Do! | |
| Pleasant Point Railway Society - take a ride on the world's only Model T railcar | |
| Hire a fishing guide and go in search of fresh salmon and trout | |
| Take your pick ... or is it putt? - twelve different golf courses | |
| Off the Beaten Track | |
| Experience the unspoiled back country from a 4-wheel drive, go anywhere vehicle (4x4 NZ Ltd) | |
| Explore the district on a Heritage trail - The Bullock Wagon, the Pioneer Trail or The Strawberry Trail | |
| Eat, Drink and Be Merry | |
| Four Peaks Plaza | |
| DB Mainland Brewery, Timaru | |
| Talbot Forest Cheese, Geraldine | |
| Lunch at a hilltop cafe, overlooking Caroline Bay, Timaru | |
