Timaru, New Zealand

Capital City

With a population of just 28,700, Timaru is a sleepy agricultural port town on New Zealand's South Island - hardly the cosmopolitan hub many expats dream of. The local economy centers around meat, dairy, and fishing, though the town's 19th century bluestone buildings offer little in the way of nightlife or cultural attractions. And while the surrounding countryside is picturesque, the climate can be a persistent headache, with hot summers and frigid winters. For those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle removed from the stresses of big city living, Timaru may be a suitable fit. But for urbanites craving the diversity and amenities of a true metropolis, this small town simply won't measure up.