Hafen
Timaru

OVERVIEW

Spend free time in the artistically-inclined village of Geraldine and enjoy a spin through stunning Rangitata Valley sheep country. This mostly panoramic excursion provides an excellent overview a South Island region so visually stunning it served as a backdrop for several Lord of the Rings films. First up is Geraldine, a compact boutique village nestled among rolling hills and farmland. With your free time here, you might wander its open-air cafés and shops, sampling the renowned local cheeses and fruit preserves. Or tour the Vintage Car & Machinery Museum, home to a sizable collection of vintage tractors and the world’s only Spartan biplane. Or stroll the Historic Town Trail for glimpses into Geraldine’s history. Alternatively check out the Giant Jersey, Talbot Forest Cheese Shop or visit Barkers of Geraldine.. Heading from the Downs, the return trip takes you across the Rangitata River and back toward Timaru. Your journey takes in the sights and sounds of Timaru, with views across the lively Caroline Bay beachfront.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy panoramic views and intriguing stops on a drive into the countryside north of Timaru
• Explore the famously artsy village of Geraldine at your leisure; there’s something for everyone here.
• Travel into Rangitata Valley sheep country, scenic backdrop of the Lord of the Rings movies.
• Return to the pier by way of a town famous for sheep-dipping and the Caroline Bay beachfront.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

OVERVIEW

Stop at some of the most beautiful alpine lakes within the Waitaki District to see how hydroelectric power is harnessed and how salmon are sustainably farmed. The leisurely drive there will be spectacularly scenic, as you will travel through a fertile agricultural landscape with numerous farms and cattle and sheep ranches. At the hydro dam on the Waitaki River, you will gain an understanding of how the river water has been used to generate electricity for nearly 100 years. Some of the towns that you will pass along the way, such as Twizel, were developed specifically to house workers for those hydroelectric projects. Glacial water from cobalt-blue Lake Pukaki powers many of the hydroelectric stations, but without harming the environment as you will discover while pausing at this striking setting below New Zealand’s tallest peak. Similarly, at Lake Tekapo, you will hear how farmers and conservationists work hand in hand to preserve the environment and endangered species.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover how power stations and salmon farms operate without harming the ecology.
• Learn how industries work hand in hand with conservationists to protect the environment.
• Travel through a pristine mountain landscape with alpine lakes and deep valleys.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Meander through a garden of roses and duck ponds, view an impressive Kiwi art collection housed in a Victorian mansion, and see a champion racehorse immortalized in bronze. Timaru is known for its sizable bounty of early 20th-century architecture and scenic Caroline Bay beachfront, both of which you will encounter as you travel the city on this leisurely-paced excursion. Step out for a freeform stroll through the Botanic Gardens on Queen Street and discover a serene oasis of fragrant rose gardens, duck ponds, and leafy New Zeeland hardwoods. On the other side of the historic district, admire the artworks of the Aigantighe Art Gallery arrayed within a 1908 mansion that is itself a work of art. The collection spans from the 16th century to the present day and sprawls out into a handsome surrounding sculpture garden. But in this town, one sculpture is revered above all others – and you’ll see him outside a race course on the north side of town. Phar Lap, better known as “Big Red,” was born near Timaru in 1926 and grew up to become one of the most accomplished racing thoroughbreds of all time. Portrayed in full gallop, he’s quite the sight.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel the city by coach, taking in a range of Timaru landmarks, and stopping to visit some of them.
• Explore the Botanic Gardens and discover why this town is known as the “Rose City.”
• At Aigantighe Art Gallery, tour an expansive collection housed within an elegant Victorian family home.
• Visit the statue of horseracing legend Phar Lap, drive along Caroline Bay, see the historic Landing Service Building, Centennial Park and more.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

Travel over farmland until you reach the Mackenzie basin where the landscape and farming changes dramatically. This is the domain of merino sheep and iconic high-country stations, but the landscape is dominated by the Southern Alps and its glacial lakes.

Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd, Morning Tea

Your first stop is at Lake Tekapo, a small town that faces north over this remarkable turquoise lake with stunning views of the glacial valleys that feed it. On the shores of the lake, you will see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district and is still used as a place of worship. Enjoy a light morning tea.

Mount Cook National Park, Lake Pukaki

Travel to Lake Pukaki over one of the many hydro canals that crisscross the Mackenzie Basin. Sourced from the Tasman Glacier (New Zealand's longest at 29km), Lake Pukaki borders the eastern slopes of New Zealand's greatest alpine park - Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. It is the largest of three lakes in the region which also encompasses the country's highest mountains (19 peaks over 3000 metres) and a series of glaciers that cover 40 percent of the park. Aoraki Mount Cook (3754 metres /12300 feet) and the National Park form part of Te Waipounamu - South Westland World Heritage Area in recognition of its outstanding natural values.

Panoramic Views, Kiwi Style BBQ Lunch

Travelling from Lake Pukaki we pass the hydro town of Twizel and Lake Ruataniwha before enjoying a delicious kiwi style BBQ lunch and afterwards some shopping (time permitting) at the town of Omarama, a location renowned for its gliding and clear night skies. The journey then travels out the Waitaki Valley crossing two hydro dams by Lake Benmore and Lake Aviemore before travelling through rolling farmlands back to the port of Timaru.

Experience the lakes and mountains of the Southern Alps in a unique new way during this scenic and invigorating, full-day bicycle excursion.

Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately, 1.5-hour drive to Lake Tekapo, a turquoise glacier-lake with a stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps at its head. After a brief photo stop here, continue on to Lake Pukaki, the starting-point for your bicycle tour. After receiving your safety and riding instructions, you are fitted for your mountain bike, helmet and safety vest prior to getting started.

Mount Cook Salmon Farm, Tekapo Hydro Canal, Southern Alps, Mackenzie Basin

Your cycling route begins near the Mount Cook Salmon Farm, where you may see salmon feeding. The trail (a mixture of sealed paths and gravel track) runs alongside the Tekapo Hydro Canal, and follows it downhill and along the edge of Lake Pukaki. Whilst riding along the lake shoreline, take in stunning panoramic vistas of the Southern Alps, Lake Pukaki and Mackenzie Basin.

Mount Cook, Picnic-Style Lunch

Upon reaching the head of Lake Pukaki and end of your trail, take in spectacular views of Aoraki Mount Cook (weather-permitting). Here, a stop is made for a picnic-style lunch, hot/cold drinks and complimentary wine/beer, or perhaps even some fresh salmon from the shop. After lunch, re-board your coach and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Depart Port for the short Shuttle trip to the Landing Service building for the commencement of the Tour

From the Landing Service Building. Originally used for unloading ships around 1870, this is the only remaining example of such a building in Australasia. It is built of local volcanic basalt, known as bluestone.

Onwards to the building on the corner of George Street and Cains Terrace, once Werry's Private Guest Hotel, probably designed by Maurice Duval, a Belgian architect.  Next it is the Theatre Royal was reconverted into a theatre in 1877 by Maurice Duval. It was upgraded in 1992/93 and a new foyer was designed by Barrie Bracefield Consultancy.

Next the Grosvenor Hotel, redeveloped by architect James Turnbull in 1915 Edwardian Baroque style. The Shops and offices, Flemish Baroque style was built around 1930.

Lower Stafford Street has many fine examples of two and three storey commercial buildings of the late Victorian to Edwardian period.

The Arcade Chambers, a more restrained version of the Edwardian era, is typical of many of the buildings in Timaru. Cast iron columns above allow for maximum glazing of shop fronts.

Along to the older part of the Council Chambers, originally the Public Library, was designed by Walter Panton and officially opened in 1909, with the Chief Post Office designed in 1881 by R.A. Lawson.

Past the South Canterbury Museum, opened in 1966, designed by architect, Ron Dohig, St Mary's Church, built in local bluestone,  designed by architect, W.B. Arnson and the Timaru Public Library, designed by architects, Warren and Mahoney and built 1977.

Upper Stafford Street shows many good examples of small city Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The late Victorian FTC building and Tekapo buildings were designed by James Turnbull.

Offices on the Terrace are an example of the arts and crafts style including the The Old Customs House - 1902, architect, D. West.

After a Café stop return to the Landing Service Building before taking the shuttle back to the pier.

Take an unforgettable journey into the Canterbury high country to visit one of New Zealand's most famous and stunning high country stations, Erewhon Station. Erewhon Station is a 35,000 acre property situated at the foot hills of the Southern Alps.

Canterbury High Country, Panoramic Views & Photo Stops, Morning Tea in Mt. Somers

Depart the port via coach and travel across the vast Canterbury plains, the largest area of flat land in New Zealand and then heads into the stunning Canterbury high country with its rugged mountain ranges, crystal blue lakes and fresh crisp mountain air. Take the advantage of a several stops along the way for great photo opportunities and to enjoy a morning tea in Mt Somers, a small town in the foothill of the Southern Alps.

'Edoras' & Erewhon Station Experience with Lunch

Continue towards the mountains and past the site of a Lord of the Rings filming location 'Edoras' on Mt Sunday where you will have another photo stop before continuing on the road to Erewhon Station itself. Erewhon is a play on the word "nowhere" spelt backwards. Meet the owners of the property, Colin and Erin and learn about the working high country station that farms Merino sheep, Hereford cattle, deer and also a large Clydesdale horse stud. The Clydesdale horses still undertake lot of the work on the property including using towering wagons and working the fields by towing plows. Your time at the property will be spent enjoying a unique Clydesdale horse wagon ride experience, watching a working horse demonstration, watching a sheep shearing demonstration and enjoying a delicious picnic lunch in the mountains. A truly unique experience not to be missed.

After enjoying these unique experiences you will make your way back to the ship.

Explore the farming legacy of the Canterbury region during this picturesque outing to the Geraldine Farm.

Canterbury Region, Geraldine Farm

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one hour drive to Geraldine Farm. Located just 750 metres from the small and unique Woodbury Village, the farm provides a specially curated hands-on experience. Upon arrival, you will meet the owners of Geraldine Farm and learn about its family history. Geraldine Farm’s one-and-a-half-hour tour consists of a sheep-shearing demonstration where you will learn the differences between breeds of sheep, the textures and patterns of various types of wool, and the scouring process of shearing. Geraldine Farm provides an up close and personal experience with its lambs, allowing you to pet, cuddle, and bottle feed young lambs. Geraldine Farm prides itself too on its excellent working farm dogs and gives you a front row view of them performing a sheep herding exercise. The first dog, the heading (eye) dog, brings the sheep towards it, and the second dog, known as the huntaway, barks to move the sheep towards the heading dog. The tour concludes with a guided walking tour of Geraldine’s Homestead and its vibrant yet serene garden grounds.

Lunch at Local Cafe

Following your tour, proceed for lunch served at a local café, which boasts delectable New Zealand lamb, New Zealand salmon, hot potato dishes, salads, fresh bread, pavlova, and beverages.

Tin Shed, Merino Wool Garments, Free Time

Next, re-board your coach and continue on for a visit to the Tin Shed, a souvenir shop specialising in Merino Wool garments. Following some free time to browse the items available for sale, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.  

Explore the evolution of the South Island during this memorable, full-day sightseeing excursion to Oamaru and the Moeraki Boulders.

Oamaru, Historic Buildings, Shops, Galleries, Traditional Crafts, Victorian Streetscapes

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive to Oamaru. Oamaru has a rich history and proud heritage, enriched by the passionate and perhaps quirky locals. Upon arrival and following a comfort stop, explore the historic buildings of Oamaru, along with shops, galleries and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemisphere's most complete Victorian streetscapes and 19th-century architecture.

Moeraki Boulders, Morning Tea, Free Time

Next, re-board your coach and drive to the Moeraki Boulders, a group of large spherical 'stones' on Koekohe Beach near Moeraki on New Zealand's Otago coast. These boulders are actually concretions that have been exposed through shoreline erosion from coastal cliffs, and are among the most fascinating and popular attractions on the South Island. Upon arrival, enjoy morning tea and some free time to explore the boulders at your leisure.

Lunch, Flower & Vegetable Gardens, Riverstone Country Gift Shop

Leaving the boulders, re-board your coach and begin the drive back towards Timaru. En route, a stop is made for lunch at the award-winning restaurant, Riverstone Kitchen. After lunch, take a stroll through the vast flower and vegetable gardens, and explore the Riverstone Country Gift Shop, which overflows with homewares, giftware, kitchen equipment, jewellery, toys, and lots more.

Dot's Castle, Moat, Turrets, Dungeons, Suits of Armour

See Dot's Castle from the gardens at Riverstone. This building was Dot's dream from childhood, and features a moat, turrets, dungeons and suits of armour. It is Dot and Neil's home, so it's not open to the public, but you can admire the castle's architecture from the gardens. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Your journey begins at Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre where local Māori guides from the Ngāi Tahu tribe will share their knowledge of the traditional practice of rock drawing, and the history of Māori settlement in the region. A unique interpretive centre, Te Ana houses eight pieces of Māori rock art removed from sites in the early 1900s, alongside the work of contemporary tribal artists influenced by these ancient designs.

Following your centre visit, travel to Ōpihi to explore the Māori rock art sites in the landscape, and gain an understanding of the lifeways of the people that created them. On a property managed by the local Ngāi Tahu Māori tribe you will have an opportunity to see drawings which document the history of Māori occupation in the area, from the early 'Moa-hunter' period of settlement, through to the time of European arrival. As kaitiaki or guardians of the sites, the Ngāi Tahu tribe has initiated a long-term project to protect and enhance the natural and cultural values on this property. This ecological restoration has begun with over half of native plants and trees already installed in the valley. Te Ana is a nonprofit organisation, with all proceeds from tours being used exclusively for the management of these treasured sites.

Your tour concludes back at the pier.

Escape the crowds and embark on a journey up the glacial carved Rangitata Valley to visit the historic Mesopotamia sheep station, located in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps. Travelling from the Timaru port by coach your guide will describe the areas farming practices its rich history and point out the natural features as we travel. Your first stop is at the vibrant country town of Geraldine, well known for its cafes, art and the Giant Jersey, also known as the world's largest jersey.

Next visit Peel Forest Park with its ancient podocarp forest, with a chance for a short forest walk to see the 1000-year-old Totara tree, or enjoy the birdsong of the native bellbird, perhaps even an encounter with a fantail or native keruru (wood pigeon). After leaving Peel Forest Park pass by other stations starting with the historic Mt Peel, White Rock, Rata Peaks, Ben Mcleod and Forest Creek. As many of the stations operate their own game parks you can often see wild game and trophy animals in the paddocks along the way. Once you reach Mesopotamia Station, visit the Mesopotamia School where a sumptuous home cooked style lunch is served. After lunch, enjoy an authentic demonstration of sheep shearing and sheepdogs working at the woolshed.

You will have some free time to take photographs and take in the vastness of Rangitata River valley with its stunning panorama of glaciers and snowfields. You will understand just why this landscape was chosen as the site for Edoras and Helms Deep in the "Lord of the Rings" movies.

Stop at the Tin Shed on the journey back to Timaru Port (time permitting), where a range of quality clothing and products can be purchased.

Discover the coastal beauty and highlights of Timaru and its surrounds during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Timaru City Tour, Botanical Gardens

Depart the pier for a scenic, approximately 30-minute orientation drive through Timaru. Your first stop is the verdant Botanical Gardens. Marvel at the superb collections of diverse as Australian plants, conifers and rose species. Of special note is a border containing the native plants of the Canterbury region. In addition, endangered plants from around the world can be seen in part of the conservatory complex.

Geraldine, Barkers Fruit Processors, Talbot Forest Cheese Shop, Tastings and Shopping

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to your next stop, Geraldine. Located in the heart of a prosperous farming area, Geraldine is especially renowned for its artists and as a haven for retired Kiwis. There are also excellent food outlets, including Barkers Fruit Processors, where you can shop and sample their wonderful fruit juices, jams, condiments and toppings. Adjacent to Barkers is the Talbot Forest Cheese Shop, where you can also shop and sample some fresh local cheeses.

Caroline Bay Park, Timber Boardwalk, Artificial Sand Dunes, Native Grasses, Wetlands

Your last stop is at Caroline Bay, home to the annual Caroline Bay Carnival, which takes place during the summer and attracts visitors from all over New Zealand. The highlight of Caroline Bay Park is the timber boardwalk on the beach, which winds around the artificial sand dunes, and is implanted with native grasses and wetland. At the conclusion of your tour, you may opt to re-board the coach and commence the short drive back to the pier, or return to the pier on-foot.

Experience the exquisite beauty of the Pacific coast of New Zealand on-foot during this panoramic, half-day excursion at Timaru.

Timaru, Caroline Bay, Memorial Walkway, Benvenue Cliffs, Panoramic Views

Depart the pier for the guided stroll towards beautiful Caroline Bay, voted one of the Top 10 beaches on the Pacific Coast, via the Memorial Walkway. Here, view display panels erected in honour of New Zealand's war heroes, then continue walking along the boardwalk towards the beach and a sealed cliff path to Benvenue Cliffs. A photo stop is made at the cliffs for splendid views over Caroline Bay, and to learn about Timaru's worst shipwreck.

Bay Hill, Morning/Afternoon Tea, Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden

Upon reaching Bay Hill, a stop is made to rest, take in the panoramic views, and enjoy morning or afternoon tea. Afterward, descend to the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a sensational collection featuring more than 1,000 of the world's best roses, architecturally designed by renowned architect Sir Miles Warren.

Timaru Piazza, Landing Services Building, Te Ana Maori Rock Art

Next, walk up the steps to the Timaru Piazza and Landing Services Building, the last remaining building of its type in the Southern Hemisphere. Upon arrival, a final stop is made at Te Ana Maori Rock Art for a guided, visual and interactive Maori cultural tour. Following your visit, commence a short walk back to the pier.