4 Must Do Summer Walks In Timaru

Timaru and its surrounds offer fantastic walks with sea views or inland tramps with waterfalls and native bush. There’s something for everyone.

Timaru’s seaside location means fantastic coastal walks where you can see penguins and the occasional whale, or head inland for beautiful bushwalks and waterfalls.

We’ve got Department of Conservation campsites with forest and river walks, and mountainous Mesopotamia for hiking and other adventures in the historic high country.  There are heaps of fantastic walks throughout the district, here are 4 to get you started.

1. GO CHASING WATERFALLS

Acland Falls Track, Peel Forest - 1 hour return

If you’re into walks that encompass original native forest, bird song and waterfalls, head to beautiful Peel Forest.

Acland Falls is your reward for a fabulous bush walk that starts off with a bit of a climb, all under the cover of ancient podocarp forest.

There are plenty of tracks to explore at Peel Forest.  You’ll find something for all ages and abilities, including the wheelchair accessible Big Tree Walk. 

2. CLIMB A LITTLE MOUNTAIN

Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere, Peel Forest - 5 hours return

Known as one of the best day walks in Canterbury, but it should come with a disclaimer of ‘not so little’.

The round trip takes around 6 hours, and you’re rewarded with expansive 360 degree views at the top.  Compulsory Instagram photo on the trig station at the top - tag us #welovetimaru.

No visit to Peel Forest is complete without calling into The Green Man licensed cafe for refreshments.  Known for live music nights, fabulous food, craft beers, and be sure to try the recently released and locally produced Humdinger gin.

3. LIGHTHOUSE AND SHIPWRECKS

Dashing Rocks Walk, Timaru - 1 hour return

There are lots of cool short walks in Timaru City.  A favourite with locals, given its coastal views and proximity to eateries and shopping, is the Dashing Rocks walk.

Wander the cliffs past a historic lighthouse, and the site of ancient shipwrecks where the waves crash into volcanic rock.

Start with brunch, or finish with sunset drinks, at the fabulous row of eateries at the top of the Bay Hill. 

If coastal walks with lighthouses are your thing, you should also check out Tuhawaiki (Jack’s) Point. 

This is also a great track for biking.

4. WALK, SHOP AND EAT IN GERALDINE

Riverside Walkway, Geraldine - 1 hour return

Popular with visitors, Geraldine is a charming boutique village just 30 minutes’ drive from Timaru City and 1.5 hours’ drive from Christchurch.  Geraldine is also the gateway to the Mackenzie region.

One of the best ways to experience Geraldine is on foot.  Start by walking the Riverside Walkway with its exotic Rhododendron plants.  Cross the road and take in the native trees and birdsong of the Talbot Forest tracks, and then loop back around to the main shopping area with its specialty stores and eateries.