Fronting the town, this expansive park ranges over an Edwardian-style garden under the Bay Hill cliff, then across broad lawns to low sand dunes and the beach itself. It has something for everyone between the playground, skate park, soundshell, ice-cream kiosk, minigolf, splash park and myriad other attractions.

Don't miss the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a triumphant collection of heritage varieties, and consider an evening picnic making the most of the late sun. If you're lucky enough to spot a seal or penguin on the beach, do keep your distance.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden

0.17 MILES

Rose aficionados should visit the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, where almost 1200 romantic blooms are set around arbours and water features. The finest…

2. Aigantighe Art Gallery

0.46 MILES

One of the South Island’s largest public galleries, this 1908 mansion houses a notable collection of NZ and European art across various eras, alongside…

3. South Canterbury Museum

0.53 MILES

Historic and natural artefacts of the region are displayed here. Highlights include the Māori section, a full-scale model of a ship's cabin from 1859, and…

4. Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre

0.61 MILES

Passionate Ngāi Tahu guides bring this innovative multimedia exhibition about Māori rock paintings to life. You can also take a three-hour excursion …

5. Sacred Heart Basilica

0.82 MILES

Roman Catholic with a definite emphasis on the Roman, this beautiful neoclassical church (1911) impresses with multiple domes, Ionian columns and richly…

6. Timaru Botanic Gardens

1.38 MILES

Established in 1864, these gardens are a restful place to while away an hour or two, with a pond, lush lawns, shady trees, a playground and vibrant floral…

8. Geraldine Historical Museum

20.52 MILES

Occupying the photogenic Town Board Office building (1885), this cute little museum tells the town's story with an eclectic mix of exhibits, including an…