Living in Timaru
South Canterbury is located on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Just two hours drive to the north is Christchurch, New Zealand's second largest city (which has an international airport) while a drive two hours south will see you in Dunedin, the Edinburgh of the south. By air you're just one hours flight from New Zealand's capital city and arguably cultural hub, Wellington.
Timaru is the largest urban centre in the region – a long established and wealthy rural service centre. Our resident population of approximately 28,000 enjoys access to moderately priced real estate and an abundance of sporting and recreational facilities – many of them of international standard.
Outside of working hours you'll find Timaru and surrounding districts offer an amazing array of the outdoor pursuits for which New Zealand is famed. It sits at the doorstep of many inland lakes where sailing, water-skiing, boating, windsurfing and fishing are popular pastimes. At least five ski fields are within easy driving of Timaru itself. South Canterbury has long been viewed as a friendly, safe place to raise a family. The district has excellent primary and secondary schools and a local polytechnic. Whatever yours or your families interests, we challenge you'll find something to satisfy them here.
Timaru offers all that is comparable to any larger centre yet without the associated hassles. In general, the cost of living in a provincial centre is less than in an urban area like Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, (particularly for land and housing costs as well as generally reduced travel expenses).
In addition you may be interested to note:
Median house sales price for South Canterbury was $225,750 (based on May 2010 real estate figures)
Rental prices range from $180-$450 per week for 2-4 bedroom flats and houses.
The following links provide an overview of the South Canterbury district:
Central South Island Tourism: www.southisland.org.nz
Aoraki Development Trust: www.southcanterbury.org.nz
Timaru District Council: www.timaru.govt.nz
Mackenzie District: www.mtcooknz.com
Waimate District: www.waimatedc.govt.nz
