Living And Getting Around In Timaru

There are a lot of reasons for young New Zealanders and those just starting families to be looking outside the main city centres for a place to live. Property prices in Auckland have reached new heights with the median reaching $500,000 NZD in May of 2012 and the current situation post-earthquake in Christchurch means that the South Island's largest city isn't in the best position either.

With an average property price of Timaru real estate at just $235,000 NZD, less congestion and still having all of the amenities, schooling and other facilities that you would expect from a main centre, the south Canterbury city is quickly growing in popularity for those looking to buy.

Getting around Timaru

So you've found the house and you're looking into the mortgage but you still aren't sure about making the move? What about getting around? Will I be able to travel just as easily? Am I going to need to drive more to get from place to place? Will the kids be able to make their own way to school?

Timaru has some fantastic transport infrastructure in place for getting around the city or between other parts of the country. Even after making the move you'll find that you feel very well connected.

- Timaru City has a complete bus service that operates in all areas. School buses provide transport for both rural and urban students; meaning if you choose to buy a lifestyle block it won't be anymore difficult to do the rounds in the morning.

- South Canterbury coach services including Atomic Shuttles, Southern Link Coaches and Knightrider make regular trips between Timaru and other towns and cities in the region. You'll be able to head up to Christchurch for the weekend with ease or have your teenager come back during break from Canterbury University without having to make the trip there and back.

- Timaru airport is only 8km away from the city centre and connects the city to the rest of the country via domestic flights. They might not operate internationally, but it's such a short trip to Christchurch International Airport or even Auckland Airport that you won't feel burdened at all when it comes to making vacation plans overseas.

Escape the main centres

It's not just a high cost of living that's driving New Zealanders and immigrating internationals away from the main centres. People are starting to realise that they want a change of lifestyle and a return to the relaxed New Zealand way of life that the country is known for. The main city centres have their benefits - there are certainly more opportunities for networking and, a lot of people think, for employment too.

However the congestion, high cost of living and the amount of work it takes just to get by can make smaller cities like Timaru seem absolutely incredible in comparison. Forget all the stress! Focus on your family and focus on you.