Explore the Area
Welcome to the Waitaki
Oamaru and surrounding areas
Shopping
- Hyde Boutique
- Housekeepers Design
- Solenzio Pottery
- Presence on Harbour
- Inc Design Store
- Buggy Robot
- Crafted Gallery
Oamaru
- Oamaru Victorian Precinct
- Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
- Steampunk Headquarters
- Whitestone City
- Waitaki Museum
- Forrester Art Gallery
- Brookfield Gardens
- Janet Frame House
- Oamaru Farmers Market
- Oamaru Harbourside Walkway
Culinary
- Cucina Restaurant
- Del Mar Restaurant
- Tees Street Café
- Whitestone Cheese Deli
- The Galley Café
- Fat Sallys Restaurant
- Harbour Street Collective Café
Beverages
- Scotts Brewery
- Craftworks Brewery
- NZ Whisky Cellar Door
Events
- Oamaru Heritage Celebration
- Steampunk NZ Festival
- Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival
- Waitaki Art Trail
Day Trips
- A2O Cycle Trail
- Aoraki/Mt Cook (On the way)
- Elephant rocks
- River T Wines
- Valli Wines
- Takiora Rock Art (Māori Rock Drawings)
- High Country Salmon
- Moeraki Boulders
- Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark
- Riverstone Kitchen/Castle/Giftshop
- Parkside Quaries (Oamaru Stone)
Adventures
- Heliventures Oamaru
- Taierei Gorge Railway Tours
- Braided River Jetboating
- Trout Flyfishing
- Deep Stream Walking Track
- Canal Salmon Fishing
- Wallaby Hunting
- Wild Game Hunting
Steampunk
Step into a world of imagination at Steampunk HQ, a surreal and immersive experience blending Victorian-era design with futuristic machinery. Housed in an 1880s grain elevator, this one-of-a-kind museum features interactive exhibits, retro-futuristic sculptures, and theatrical installations. It's a must-see for creatives, families, and curious minds looking to explore the quirky, artistic spirit of Oamaru.
Little Blue Penguins
Just minutes from central Oamaru, the Blue Penguin Colony offers a unique chance to see the world’s smallest penguins return from the sea at dusk. Guided evening tours take you to viewing stands where you’ll watch these charming creatures waddle ashore to their burrows.
With options for standard or premium seating and daytime access to nesting boxes, this is a memorable wildlife experience that also supports local conservation efforts.
Historic Precinct
Wander through beautifully restored 19th-century limestone buildings in Oamaru’s Historic Precinct, New Zealand’s best-preserved Victorian streetscape. Once bustling commercial hubs, these character-filled spaces now house artisan galleries, boutique shops, and cosy cafés.
With cobbled streets, harbour views, and occasional steam train rides, it’s a charming blend of history and creativity—perfect for a relaxed afternoon out.
Oamaru Public Gardens
Established in 1876, the Oamaru Public Gardens are among New Zealand’s oldest and most picturesque. Spread across 13 hectares, they feature tranquil streams, themed garden areas, and mature trees that create a peaceful setting for walks or picnics.
Highlights include a Japanese bridge, marble fountain, rose gardens, native fernery, and a whimsical Wonderland statue. A serene retreat just minutes from town, perfect for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature and heritage charm.
Moeraki Boulders
Just 30 minutes south of Oamaru, the Moeraki Boulders are giant, spherical stones scattered across Koekohe Beach. Formed over millions of years, these natural marvels reach up to two metres in diameter.
Steeped in Māori legend and stunning at sunrise or low tide, they offer a peaceful and photogenic stop along the coast—perfect for a scenic day trip from the lodge.
Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is one of New Zealand’s most iconic multi-day rides, stretching from Aoraki/Mount Cook to Oamaru. The final section brings you through the Waitaki Valley to the Pacific Ocean, finishing right here in town.
Whether you ride a full stage or simply take a leisurely day ride, the trail offers breathtaking scenery—glacial lakes, rolling farmland, limestone cliffs, and historic towns. A must for active travellers wanting to experience the South Island’s natural beauty up close.