Discover the Rich History at South Canterbury Museum
Experience Timaru's history at the South Canterbury Museum, where local culture and natural wonders come together for an educational adventure.
Nestled in the heart of Timaru, the South Canterbury Museum invites tourists to explore the region's fascinating history through its diverse exhibits. From natural history to cultural displays, this museum offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to South Canterbury Museum
- 16 Perth St, Timaru, Timaru, 7910, NZ
- +6436877212
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 1 pm-4:30 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends can get busy.
- Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events to enhance your visit.
- Take advantage of the free admission to explore the museum without breaking the bank.
- Allow at least two hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and the museum's offerings.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Christchurch, take State Highway 1 south towards Timaru. The drive is approximately 2 hours. Once you reach Timaru, take the exit towards the city center. Follow the main road (Stafford Street) and turn left onto Perth Street. The South Canterbury Museum will be on your right at 16 Perth Street. There is parking available on the street.
-
Public Transportation
To reach South Canterbury Museum via public transportation from Christchurch, you can take a bus from the Christchurch Bus Interchange to Timaru. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Timaru Bus Station, it's about a 15-minute walk to the museum. Head west on George Street, then turn left onto Stafford Street, and finally turn right onto Perth Street. The museum will be on your left at 16 Perth Street.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a quicker option after arriving in Timaru, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply request a ride to 16 Perth Street, Timaru. The fare will vary depending on your location but expect to pay around NZD 10-20 for a short ride within the city.
Discover more about South Canterbury Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arkane Tattoo & Laser Removal
0.2 km
Discover exceptional tattoo artistry and professional laser removal services at Arkane Tattoo & Laser Removal in Timaru, New Zealand.
The Sail & Anchor Bar & Cafe
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Sail & Anchor Bar & Cafe in Timaru, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and great company await.
Old Bank Cafe & bar
0.2 km
Explore Timaru's Old Bank Cafe & Bar - where delicious food meets a lively sports atmosphere in the heart of New Zealand.
Acquisitions - Timaru
0.2 km
Explore Acquisitions in Timaru for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the beauty and creativity of New Zealand.
Armadillos Tavern
0.3 km
Experience the best of Timaru at Armadillos Tavern, where delicious food meets a vibrant bar atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
The Grosvenor
0.3 km
Discover comfort and culinary delights at The Grosvenor, your ideal lodging and dining destination in Timaru, New Zealand.
The Hibernian Studio Apartments
0.3 km
Discover comfort and self-catering convenience at The Hibernian Studio Apartments in Timaru, your perfect home base for South Island adventures.
Hector Black's Lounge Bar on Stafford
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hector Black's Lounge Bar in Timaru, where excellent drinks and friendly service await every visitor.
Little Sparrow Tattoo
0.4 km
Discover unmatched artistry at Little Sparrow Tattoo in Timaru, where your tattoo dreams turn into reality in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dead2b
0.4 km
Explore Dead2b Gift Shop in Timaru for unique gifts that capture New Zealand's spirit, handcrafted by local artisans and perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Speight's Ale House
0.4 km
Experience the flavors of New Zealand at Speight's Ale House in Timaru, where delicious gastropub cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere and local craft beers.
Tuesday
0.4 km
Explore Timaru's Tuesday Gift Shop for unique, quirky gifts and local treasures, perfect for memorable souvenirs and special occasions.
Timaru Artisan Farmers Market
0.4 km
Explore Timaru Artisan Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere every Saturday in Timaru, New Zealand.
Landing Service Conference Centre
0.4 km
Discover the Landing Service Conference Centre, Timaru's premier venue for meetings and events, blending modern facilities with exceptional service.
The City Boarding House
0.4 km
Experience the comfort and convenience of The City Boarding House in Timaru, the perfect base for your coastal adventures and cultural explorations.
Unmissable attractions to see
日本巷
0.2 km
Explore the beauty and cultural heritage of Japan's Hill in Timaru, a unique tourist attraction celebrating the Japanese community and its history.
Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre
0.4 km
Explore the rich Maori heritage and ancient rock art at Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre in Timaru, New Zealand, a unique cultural experience.
Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden
0.6 km
Explore the stunning Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden in Timaru Port, a floral paradise filled with vibrant blooms and peaceful pathways for a perfect nature getaway.
Sacred Heart Basilica
0.6 km
Explore the Sacred Heart Basilica in Timaru, a stunning Catholic church offering architectural beauty, serene gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
York Street Gallery of Fine Art
0.7 km
Explore the York Street Gallery of Fine Art in Timaru for a captivating experience of local and international art in a welcoming environment.
Caroline Bay Association
0.8 km
Discover the beauty of Caroline Bay in Timaru, New Zealand, where stunning beaches and family-friendly fun await your visit.
Anzac Square
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Anzac Square, a tranquil park in Timaru that honors New Zealand's war heroes.
Caroline Bay Aviary
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Caroline Bay Aviary, a must-visit destination for bird lovers in Timaru, New Zealand.
Timaru - Little blue penguins
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Timaru's Little Blue Penguins in their natural habitat at this enchanting nature preserve dedicated to wildlife conservation.
Aigantighe Art Gallery
1.2 km
Explore the Aigantighe Art Gallery in Timaru, where New Zealand's artistic spirit comes alive through diverse exhibitions and serene gardens.
Aigantighe Gardens
1.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Aigantighe Gardens in Timaru, a picturesque city park perfect for relaxation and family outings amidst vibrant landscapes.
Illuminate Light and Sound Experience (Timaru)
1.3 km
Discover the Illuminate Light and Sound Experience in Timaru: a breathtaking fusion of art and technology that brings the night to life with stunning light displays.
North mole outer
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of North Mole Outer in Timaru, a serene coastal destination perfect for relaxation and stunning ocean views.
Maori Park
1.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Maori Park in Timaru, a perfect blend of nature and tranquility, ideal for relaxation and leisurely activities.
Timaru Lighthouse - Blackett's Lighthouse
1.4 km
Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views at Timaru Lighthouse, a treasured landmark on the cliffs of Maori Hill in New Zealand.
Essential places to dine
Arthur St Kitchen
0.1 km
Discover Arthur St Kitchen in Timaru - A cozy café serving delectable breakfasts made from fresh local ingredients.
Tomo Japanese Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Timaru's hidden gem: Tomo Japanese Restaurant offers authentic flavors in a serene setting perfect for all sushi lovers.
Rasa Asia
0.2 km
Discover authentic Malaysian cuisine at Rasa Asia in Timaru - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sopheze
0.2 km
Discover Timaru's hidden gem at Sopheze - where exceptional coffee meets delightful breakfast options in a cozy atmosphere.
Zest Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Zest Restaurant in Timaru: A delightful blend of café culture and bar elegance serving fresh local cuisine.
Istanbul Turkish Kebabs
0.3 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine at Istanbul Turkish Kebabs - where delicious kebabs meet friendly service in Timaru.
The Oxford
0.3 km
Discover The Oxford in Timaru - where exquisite cuisine meets exceptional service in a cozy atmosphere.
STARZ Restaurant at Ara Institute of Canterbury
0.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at STARZ Restaurant within Ara Institute; where education meets exceptional dining in Timaru.
Replenish Cafe
0.3 km
Discover Replenish Cafe in Central Timaru - where fresh ingredients meet cozy ambiance for an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Mr R M Easton
0.3 km
Discover exquisite flavors at Mr R M Easton in Timaru - where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
Canjoy Cantonese Cuisine
0.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Cantonese cuisine at Canjoy in Timaru - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Koji Teppanyaki & Grill Timaru
0.3 km
Savor the art of Japanese cooking at Koji Teppanyaki & Grill in Timaru - where every meal is an experience.
Timaru Roast
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of Timaru at Timaru Roast - where delicious roasted dishes meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Noodle Canteen
0.4 km
Discover Noodle Canteen in Timaru for delicious Asian fusion noodles at affordable prices—perfect for every traveler seeking flavorful experiences.
Steak @ Customs House
0.4 km
Experience the finest steaks in Timaru at Steak @ Customs House - where culinary excellence meets local charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mitre 10 MEGA Timaru
0.1 km
Explore Mitre 10 MEGA Timaru for all your home improvement needs, featuring a wide selection of building materials, hardware, and garden supplies.
Willmotts Workwear
0.1 km
Explore Timaru's Willmotts Workwear for quality clothing and exceptional service, perfect for tourists and locals alike in this coastal gem.
2nd Impression
0.2 km
Explore Timaru's 2nd Impression for stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories in a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for fashion lovers.
Artma Spiritual Gallery
0.2 km
Discover the Artma Spiritual Gallery, Timaru's treasure trove of unique gifts and artistic creations that embody New Zealand's vibrant culture.
Preen Clothing NZ
0.2 km
Explore Timaru's fashion scene with unique styles at Preen Clothing NZ, the go-to women's clothing boutique for tourists seeking local flair.
K&K Fashions
0.2 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at K&K Fashions, Timaru's go-to boutique for stylish and high-quality clothing.
Miss Timaru
0.2 km
Explore Miss Timaru, a chic women's clothing store offering stylish apparel and accessories in the vibrant heart of Timaru, New Zealand.
Caroline Eve Timaru
0.2 km
Explore Caroline Eve in Timaru for an exceptional women's clothing experience, featuring stylish attire and personalized service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hello Cyril. Boutique
0.2 km
Discover unique fashion at Hello Cyril, a charming boutique in Timaru offering stylish clothing and accessories that capture the essence of New Zealand.
Stompz
0.2 km
Discover stylish footwear at Stompz in Timaru, where quality and community converge for an exceptional shoe shopping experience.
Dollarama - A Variety Store - Timaru
0.2 km
Explore Dollarama in Timaru for unbeatable prices on a wide variety of products, perfect for budget travelers and locals alike.
Goods 2 U Timaru
0.2 km
Explore the best of Timaru shopping at Goods 2 U Timaru, where affordability meets variety in a charming two-dollar store.
CHILLIS & MORE...
0.2 km
Discover Timaru's fashion scene at Chillis & More, where unique styles meet local flair in a welcoming environment.
Kidstuff Timaru
0.3 km
Explore Kidstuff Timaru, a magical toy store offering a vast selection of toys and baby products that inspire creativity and fun for children.
Living with Style
0.3 km
Explore Living with Style in Timaru, offering a unique selection of furniture and home goods for every taste and style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boiler House
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Boiler House, Timaru's charming bar offering craft beverages and local flair in the historic Royal Arcade.
Foresized Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Foresized Bar in Timaru, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
No. 8 Wired Bar
0.3 km
Experience the local nightlife at No. 8 Wired Bar in Timaru, where cozy ambiance meets a selection of fine beverages.
The Fort Timaru
0.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Fort Timaru, a cozy bar offering a delightful selection of beverages in the heart of Timaru.
Grey Way Lounge, Phar Lap Raceway
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Grey Way Lounge, a perfect blend of relaxation and racing culture in Timaru, New Zealand.
Cave Arms Tavern
25.6 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.