Waimate

Waimate is a town in South Canterbury, approximately 30 km north of Timaru and 45 km south-west of Oamaru. It is located on the Waimate Creek, a tributary of the Waitaki River, at the edge of the Canterbury Plains.

Waimate is a service centre for the surrounding dairy and sheep farming district. The town has a historic centre with Victorian buildings. The Waimate District is known for its limestone landscapes and the Waimate Caves. The climate is dry and temperate.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Timaru Airport (TIU), approximately 35 km south. Christchurch Airport (CHC) is about 185 km north-east.

By Car / Road

Waimate is on State Highway 82, about a 25-minute drive north of Timaru. Bus services connect Waimate to Timaru and Oamaru.

The town is walkable. A car is needed for exploring the surrounding area.

Waimate Museum — Local history exhibits in a historic building.

Waimate Caves — Limestone caves near Waimate, featuring glowworms and unique rock formations.

Waihao Forks — A scenic river confluence with walking and picnic areas.

Hooker Valley — A scenic valley in the Waimate District, not to be confused with the Hooker Valley at Mount Cook.

Visit the Waimate Caves. Walk the Waimate Creek trails. Fish the Waihao River for trout. Explore the limestone landscapes of the Waimate District.

Cafes and takeaways in the town centre serve classic New Zealand fare.

Local cafes serve coffee. The Waimate Hotel has a bar.

Waimate has motel accommodation and a holiday park.

Waimate has supermarkets and local shops for everyday needs.

• Timaru — 35 km south, Caroline Bay and the South Canterbury coast
• Oamaru — 45 km north-east, Victorian architecture and blue penguin colony
• Kurow — 30 km north-west, Waitaki Valley wine region
• Moeraki Boulders — 70 km north-east, impressive spherical boulders on the beach
• Dunedin — 120 km south-west, wildlife and Scottish heritage city