Planning a girls’ weekend? Just two hours south of Christchurch, the Timaru District offers the perfect blend of luxury, laid-back vibes, and unforgettable experiences. From award-winning food and boutique shopping to stunning nature trails and indulgent accommodation, it’s everything you need to reset and reconnect. And this September, the region turns up the flavour with the return of SCOFF – the South Canterbury Outstanding Food Festival, now in its sixth year.

CELEBRATE LOCAL FLAVOUR

Running from 5–21 September 2025, SCOFF sees top eateries across Timaru, Geraldine, Waimate, and the Mackenzie District create exclusive dishes that showcase the best of South Canterbury’s produce. It’s all about celebrating the region’s farmers, growers, and food artisans – from pasture-raised meats and artisan cheeses to fresh produce and handmade treats. Snap, taste, and share your SCOFF moments – there are multiple prizes and a grand prize up for grabs!

GIN GLORIOUS GIN

No girls’ trip is complete without a few great cocktails. Enter Humdinger Gin, one of the festival’s standout producers. Their award-winning small-batch gins include a classic dry, citrus-infused blend and limited-edition pink and sloe gins made with locally foraged botanicals. Visit their beautiful new distillery in Geraldine for a tasting or enjoy their creations at festival favourites like Street Food Kitchen or Saikou, where signature SCOFF cocktails will mean one just isn’t enough.

NATURE CALLS

Love a good walk? The region boasts over 30 scenic trails, from volcanic coastlines and native bush to mountain views. Explore Peel Forest’s waterfalls and birdlife, wander the crystal coastlines of Timaru city, or, for the more adventurous, head up Huatekerekere / Little Mount Peel for a sunrise moment you’ll never forget. There’s something here for every pace – lace up your boots, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the natural beauty that makes this region so special.

STAY IN STYLE

Whether you’re after coastal charm or boutique luxury, Timaru District delivers. Stay beside the sea at Panorama Motor Lodge or Bay Viaduct in Timaru City, where you can start the day with a sunrise stroll along Caroline Bay. For something a little more lux, Ngā Whare Mānatu or The Vicarage Geraldine offer boutique charm, plush comfort, and countryside tranquillity.

SHOP LOCAL, SHOP BEAUTIFUL

Ditch the mall – this is boutique shopping at its best. On Stafford Street in Timaru, browse standout fashion, jewellery, and homeware at Millie Rose Boutique, add to the wardrobe at Hello Cyril and Soul & Co, and check one off the ‘to be read’ list at Timaru Booksellers. In Geraldine, country charm meets contemporary style. You’ll be restyling your spaces with a visit to one of their boutique stores, and no visit to Geraldine is complete without a stop at Barker’s Foodstore & Eatery for chutneys, sauces, and condiments.

GET PLANNING

SCOFF is just around the corner, and the Timaru District is ready to serve up your most memorable girls’ weekend yet. So, rally the crew, clear the calendar, and indulge in a South Canterbury escape that’s big on flavour, fun and friendship – with boutique shopping, local brews, artisan bites, sunset strolls, and laughter-filled moments you’ll be talking about for years.

Find out more at scoffsc.nz

The ultimate girls' weekend