Timaru

Timaru, whose name comes from the Maori "Te Maru" (shelter), began life as two towns, one called Government Town and the other Rhodestown. The two towns met at George Street and merged in 1868. As Timaru's harbor was developed and its foreshore reclaimed, the Caroline Bay beach took shape and became a popular summer venue for its concerts and sideshows. Take a walk around the waterfront area at Caroline Bay where various festivals and events are held throughout the year—catch the Farmers' Market there every Sunday morning. There's a rose garden, semi-enclosed soundshell for outdoor performances, paddling pool, and play area; the boardwalk and sand dune area down at the beach are a great spot to unwind after a day in the car.