Caroline Bay the "jewel in the crown"

Owen 'OJ' Jackson, breakfast host on The Breeze, is a familiar face (and voice) in Timaru.  Here's the rundown on exploring the District OJ style:

The Scenic Reserve

"The great thing about living in Timaru is that it is just so close to everything I love.

The Scenic Reserve is right on my doorstep and it is one of my favourite places to spend my time.  I can pull on my runners and go for a jog (or a fast walk) or I can jump on my mountain bike and test myself on a multitude of riding tracks.

It's a bit like an oasis in the middle of suburbia.  Just minutes from town and a brilliant spot to head to on a summers evening, where you see so many people enjoying the company of family and friends or just taking the dog for a walk and stretching the legs.

Whenever I have family or friends come and stay they always comment about how lucky we are to have this outstanding playspace and always tell them - you're not wrong."

Caroline Bay

"The 'jewel in the crown' for Timaru is definitely Caroline Bay and it's easy to see why.

It's a great open space with the beach, parkland, boardwalks, picnic spots, skatepark, a carnival in summer, plenty of events throughout the year and a playground that a dedicated group in the community are currently looking to upgrade into a real destination playground that will simply enhance an already fabulous spot.

And did I mention it's easily accessible to the CBD!"

Summer fun in Geraldine

"If I want to travel a bit further afield one of my favourite places is Geraldine.

I've been taking the family to stay at the Geraldine Motor Camp each summer for more years than I can remember and my photo file is cram packed with the kids frolicking around in the Geraldine Pool, going for walks to the Big Tree at Peel Forest, eating delicious ice creams from the Parkside Store, playing badminton at the camp, visiting the waterfall at Te Moana Gorge or enjoying free samples of the delicious goodies at Barkers.

We have a lifestyle in Timaru that I reckon is unmatched anywhere in the country and I wouldn't trade it for anything.  It's a brilliant place to live and play."

OJ and Roselyn Fauth (Wuhoo Timaru), along with a group of passionate Timaruvians, have a vision to turn the playground at Caroline Bay into an epic destination playground.

A playspace for all ages, not just kids.  A destination playground that would have huge benefits for the community as a place to connect, play and have fun.

The community is rallying behind this idea.  Be sure to follow Cplay on Facebook to stay up to date.