Venture Timaru

08/02/2026

It was a busy cruise time last week for Timaru as we had our two biggest cruise ships visiting. With PrimePort Timaru Limited we took the opportunity to take Timaru District Council elected members Michelle Pye - TDC Councillor, Owen Jackson - Timaru District Councillor and Peter Burt plus senior leadership team member Andrew Dixon on board Noordam, so they could get some insights to the cruise sector in Timaru, and discuss its economic impact for our district. Pictured with the group representing Venture Timaru is Di Hay, and from PrimePort Emma O'Connell.

Next cruise visit is due 17 Feb, with Seabourn Sojourn visiting for the first time.

06/02/2026

It was quite a sight at Caroline Bay on Thursday when the first ever polo took place on the beach, with one of our larger cruise ships visiting, in the background.

Great turn out for this inaugural event that we were pleased to be able to help get off the ground, along with Timaru District Council

Hundreds of people, including cruise ship passengers, attended Caroline Bay’s first-ever beach polo match and showjumping competition.

05/02/2026

Thrilled to be a part of this Michelle Pye - TDC Councillor - wonderful day in Timaru District 😀

02/02/2026

Investment at PrimePort Timaru Limited pays off, with a cruise ship making the district it's home port in New Zealand, taking on supplies here and the changeover of passengers. Another step on our cruise journey Timaru District Council!

This week is a busy cruise week, with our two biggest ships calling - Norwegian Spirit was here yesterday and Noordam is back on Thursday.

Timaru is having a big cruise ship season, and is the only port in New Zealand with an increase in ship visits compared to the previous summer.

29/01/2026

Visitor numbers are boosted in Timaru this week with 2 cruise ships, sold out rugby game and Trust Aoraki Thunder Down Under.

Another busy week ahead with another 2 cruise ships and the start of the Seaside Festival, kicking off with Polo on the beach on Thursday 5, and The Finish Line Festival Friday 6 Feb.

Rugby, motorsport and cruise ships are combining to fill Timaru with visitors over the next five days.

15/01/2026

Thrilled to share some outstanding news for Timaru District and provincial New Zealand!

Our World Tennis Tour Timaru has received a prestigious International Tennis Federation award, putting Timaru firmly on the global tennis map. This recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with passion, purpose and a “can-do” attitude.

Our heartfelt congratulations go to Tennis NZ and Tennis South Canterbury , tournament organisers, volunteers, sponsors and the wider community — your dedication has driven this event from an idea into a world-class experience.

Events like this showcase the strengths of provincial New Zealand — that outstanding events, international quality experiences and meaningful economic and social impact aren’t just for big cities. They can and do happen in regions like ours, where collaboration, community spirit and genuine hospitality make a real difference.

Venture Timaru support this event, via the Timaru District Council Major Events Fund, and are unashamedly proud to be part of a district that backs ambition, supports organisers and celebrates success with its people.
📌 Read more about this achievement here: https://tennis.kiwi/news/world-tennis-tour-timaru-receives-prestigious-international-award/

Here’s to building on this success, attracting even more major sporting events, and continuing to show the world what provincial New Zealand can deliver.

This years event 9 to 15 March 2026 for finals weekend tickets: https://tennis.kiwi/timaru/

Click here for ticketsAfter a highly successful first edition in 2025, the World Tennis Tour Timaru event has been awarded as an outstanding event on the international tennis calendar, through the International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) Tournament Recognition programme.

12/01/2026

Timaru now has its own Parkrun, happening Saturdays 8am at Caroline Bay over the summer. You can run, walk, jog, spectate or volunteer to help! Covers 5km and it's free! We're thrilled to have this event taking place here and are highlighting it as our cover photo. Details are here https://www.parkrun.co.nz/carolinebay/

12/01/2026

Great progress to kick off the new year at Aorangi Stadium in Timaru.

Seismic strengthening and fire system upgrades at Aorangi Stadium have been completed, allowing staff and stadium users back into the building.

09/01/2026

Only 3 weeks to go! 🔥🏉

The Crusaders vs Highlanders pre-season game is coming to Timaru Friday 30 January 2026!

Over 3,000 tickets already sold, don’t miss out on your chance to see this massive showdown!

🎟️ Grab your tickets now: ticketmaster.co.nz/crusaders-v-highlanders-pre-season-timaru-30-01-2026/event/24006371BAA54BE1

📍 Fraser Park, Timaru
📅 Friday 30 January 2026
🕜 Kick off 3:30pm

Timaru District Council, South Canterbury Rugby, Temuka Transport 1967, Crusaders, Highlanders

06/01/2026

Kicking off the new year with a hectic cruise week! Thursday will be the busiest day in town when Norwegian Spirit calls with around 2000 passengers on board.

That includes the biggest cruise ship of the season, and residents are likely to notice the influx of tourists.

17/12/2025

All aboard, Crusaders fans 🚆

Ride in style with the launch of the Crusaders Supporters Train, to the upcoming pre-season match with the Highlanders in Timaru on 30 January 2026! 🏉

The Crusaders Supporters Train will provide a unique rail experience for fans heading south combining rugby, rail travel, great beer and good company.

Seats are limited, book your tickets at www.mainlander.co.nz
Tickets include:
🚄 Train ticket: Addington – Rolleston – Timaru (return)
🏉 Match ticket: Crusaders v Highlanders
🚌 Bus transfer from Timaru Railway Station to Fraser Park

All aboard, Crusaders fans 🚆

We’re heading south in style for our pre-season clash with the Highlanders in Timaru on 30 January 2026. Introducing the Crusaders Supporters Train, a one-of-a-kind match day experience combining rugby, rail travel, Southern Alps pride, cold beers and good mates.

Seats are limited. Don’t miss the ride.
Bookings via mainlander.co.nz