Oamaru Travel Guide (Otago/South Island/New Zealand/Oceania)

Introduction to Oamaru

Located in the Otago region on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Oamaru is known for its Victorian architecture, penguin colonies, and vibrant arts and culture scene. This charming town is situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, with incredible views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities and attractions, including museums, outdoor adventures, and fantastic food and drink options.

List of Places to Visit in Oamaru

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Oamaru is home to many museums and historical places, offering a glimpse into the town’s fascinating history and culture. Some of the top cultural attractions in Oamaru include:

North Otago Museum: This museum features exhibitions on the region’s history, culture, geology, and wildlife. The museum also has a Maori gallery which showcases Maori artifacts and history.
Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust: This trust protects and preserves Oamaru’s heritage architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic precinct to learn about the town’s impressive Victorian architecture and history.
Forrester Gallery: This gallery features works by local and national artists, as well as touring exhibitions from around New Zealand.

Natural Attractions of Oamaru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Oamaru’s stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Oamaru:

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony: The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. Visitors can see the world’s smallest penguins returning to their nests after a day of fishing in the sea.
Oamaru Public Gardens: These gardens offer beautiful walking paths, picturesque picnic spots, and an impressive rose garden.
Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve: This reserve is home to a rare colony of New Zealand fur seals, as well as incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oamaru

Oamaru boasts some spectacular hiking and biking routes, offering breathtaking views of the town’s scenic surroundings. Some of the best routes for outdoor enthusiasts include:

Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail: This 300km trail is an epic adventure that connects the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, and passes through many stunning landscapes, including Oamaru.
Oamaru to Herbert Walkway: This scenic walk takes visitors from Oamaru to Herbert, offering magnificent views of the Southern Alps in the distance.
The Hikoi Bush Walk: This 2-hour return walk takes visitors through beautiful native bushland, leading to a waterfall and scenic picnic spot.

Best Things to Do in Oamaru: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to museum visits, Oamaru has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Oamaru:

Oamaru Farmers’ Market: This market is held every Sunday and features a range of locally produced fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Steam Punk HQ: This museum showcases the unique Steam Punk art form, with a range of exhibits, interactive displays, and sculptures.
Oamaru Opera House: This historic building is home to a range of live performances, including plays, concerts, and comedy shows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oamaru

Visitors to Oamaru can easily fill up a week-long itinerary with these suggested activities:

Day 1: Arrive in Oamaru and explore the Victorian precinct, along with a guided tour to learn about its rich history.

Day 2: Visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony and the Forrester Gallery, where you can admire works by local and national artists.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive along the coast to Moeraki Boulders, stop off for a photo opportunity at Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve, and then head to the nearby village of Edinburgh for lunch.

Day 4: Enjoy a bike ride along the famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, stopping off at sights along the way.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of the historic Oamaru Opera House, and then explore the Oamaru Farmers’ Market for locally sourced products.

Day 6: Visit Harbour Street Collective for a range of unique and handmade crafts, and then head to Oamaru Public Gardens for a picnic lunch.

Day 7: Spend the last day relaxing on the beach, watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Food and Drink Scene of Oamaru

Oamaru offers a range of food and drink options, from locally sourced produce to fine dining experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Blue Cod: This locally sourced fish is a Kiwi favorite, and can be found in many Oamaru’s restaurants.
Whitestone Cheese: This award-winning cheese is produced locally in Oamaru and can be found at the Oamaru Farmers’ Market.
Steak and Venison: Oamaru is known for its rich, flavorful meats, and many restaurants offer delicious steak and venison dishes.

Local Beverages

Whitestone Brewery: This local brewery offers a range of beer options, including Porter, Pale Ale, and Pilsner.
Valley Brewing: This brewery produces a range of craft beer and cider options, such as Blackcurrant Cider, Pilsner, and India Pale Ale.

Where to Stay in Oamaru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Oamaru offers a range of accommodation options to suit everyone’s budget. Here are some recommended places to stay:

Pen-y-bryn Lodge: This luxurious lodge offers travelers top-quality accommodation, set within beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
Oamaru Backpackers: This budget-friendly hostel offers travelers comfortable and affordable lodgings.
Brydone Hotel Oamaru: This historic hotel offers a great location in the town center along with elegant rooms and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Oamaru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Oamaru has some unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best things to buy in Oamaru include:

Whitestone Cheese: This award-winning cheese is the perfect foodie souvenir to take home.
Steam Punk Jewelry: This unique jewelry, inspired by the Steampunk art form, can be found in many shops around Oamaru.
Merino Wool Products: New Zealand is famous for its high-quality merino wool products, and Oamaru offers visitors a range of shops selling everything from clothing to blankets.

Local Culture and Customs of Oamaru

Oamaru has a rich history and culture, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. One of Oamaru’s most significant customs is its Victorian heritage, which is reflected in the town’s architecture, events, and culture.

Best Time to Visit Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru is in the warmer months, between October and March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, visitors can enjoy Oamaru’s attractions year-round, thanks to its many indoor cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oamaru

Do:

Do take a guided tour of the historic precinct to learn about the town’s fascinating history and culture.
Do visit the local farmers’ market for locally sourced produce.
Do take a tour of the Oamaru Opera House to admire the stunning Victorian architecture.

Don’t:

Don’t disturb or feed the penguins or seals at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony or Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve.
Don’t litter in Oamaru’s natural areas or beaches.
Don’t forget to respect the town’s Victorian heritage by being mindful of its historic buildings and streetscapes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oamaru

Oamaru is generally safe for visitors, but it’s still essential to take common-sense precautions, such as locking doors and windows when leaving accommodations or cars. Visitors should also take care when swimming or surfing in the ocean, as currents can be strong.

Health in Oamaru

New Zealand is known for its high-quality healthcare system, and Oamaru has various medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Getting to Oamaru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oamaru

The closest airport to Oamaru is Dunedin International Airport, which is approximately 114 km away from the town. Visitors can also fly into Christchurch International Airport, which is 284 km away from Oamaru.

Bus Stations Near Oamaru

Intercity and Naked Bus offer services to Oamaru, and buses arrive and depart from the Oamaru Bus Station. Some services operate between Dunedin and Oamaru, with several stops along the way.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Oamaru by car, taking State Highway 1 from the north or south. Additionally, there are various rental car operators offering services at both Dunedin and Christchurch airports.

How to Get Around in Oamaru

Visitors can easily explore Oamaru on foot, as many of the town’s attractions and amenities are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, visitors can rent a bike from one of the several rental companies, making it easy to explore further afield.

Where to Go Next from Oamaru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Oamaru can explore nearby destinations and attractions, such as the Moeraki Boulders and the Catlins Coast, or head north to explore further up the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

Conclusion

Oamaru is a charming and unique destination, offering visitors a range of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and fantastic food and drink options. With its stunning natural surroundings and fascinating Victorian heritage, Oamaru is the perfect destination for travelers looking for something different and special.

Oamaru Image Gallery

Moulting yellow-eyed penguin at Oamaru

Steampunk headquarters