Timaru. While Timaru is famous for its woolly sheep and hardy shepherds, this picturesque agricultural region is also packed with boutique hotels, artisan food producers, and sleepy country towns. Nicely positioned between Christchurch and Dunedin, the port city of Timaru is an excellent place to land if you have mountains on your mind. West from the city is Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park – home of New Zealand’s tallest peaks and the beginning of the Alps to Ocean cycle trail.
Before you turn inland, take some time to explore Timaru itself. Built on the shores of beautiful Caroline Bay, this city has a collection of fine Edwardian buildings, some excellent eateries, and one of the country’s best rose gardens. If the sun is out, make sure you head to the coastal boardwalk for a gentle stroll. Another reason to linger in Timaru is the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Museum in George Street. Eight pieces of ancient Maori art are housed here, including a fascinating representation of the extinct Haast Eagle (Pouakai).
