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We scoured the region to find South Canterbury's best restaurants.

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Discover them with our Neat Places guide.

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Saikou

Red leather bench seating at Saikou, Timaru.
Place South Canterbury Timaru
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If you find yourself craving a night of teppanyaki and whisky while in Timaru, point your nose to Saikou.

Hector Black's

Four people sitting on couches around in a circle inside the bar at Hector Black's in Timaru.
Place South Canterbury Timaru Editor's Pick
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If a unique, cosy atmosphere, regular live music and a great selection of beverages sound like your kind of bar, then Hector Black’s is a must-visit.

Dark Sky Diner

Waitress serving a table at Dark Sky Diner, Tekapo.
Place South Canterbury Lake Tekapo
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Lakefront location, intimate interiors and compelling cuisine make Dark Sky Diner the ultimate Lake Tekapo dining destination.

Silverstream Hotel

Dining area at Silverstream Hotel, Kimbell.
Place South Canterbury Kimbell
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The Silverstream Hotel, a historical country pub in Kimbell, is an iconic Mackenzie region destination.

Ministry of Works

Interior view of table at Ministry of Works, Twizel.
Place South Canterbury Twizel
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Ministry of Works is the social go-to for both Twizel residents and visitors alike.

Blue Lake Eatery & Bar

Restaurant dining room at Blue Lake Eatery and Bar, Tekapo.
Place South Canterbury Lake Tekapo
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Blue Lake Eatery & Bar boasts a menu that’s heavily influenced by the seasons and local produce - and with a French twist on Kiwi classics - think beef cheeks marinated in red wine or hot goat cheese salad with local Mackenzie honey.

Carnegie's Restaurant & Bar

Waitress serving a table at Carnegie's Restaurant and Bar, Fairlie.
Place South Canterbury Fairlie
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Set in a stunning, historical building that was originally built as a Carnegie library in the early 1900s, Carnegie's Restaurant & Bar is a true Mackenzie destination in...

The Oxford

A close up of the halloumi salad at The Oxford restaurant in Timaru.
Place South Canterbury Timaru Editor's Pick
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Ask a Timaru local where to eat in town and chances are they will point you in the direction of The Oxford.

The Greedy Cow Café

A close up of loaded toast on a table in the sunshine at the Greedy Cow in Tekapo.
Place South Canterbury Lake Tekapo
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This sunny corner store café in the heart of Lake Tekapo is a must stop whether you are just passing through or in town for longer.