History, adventure and culture await in Oamaru

Three hours south of Christchurch, Oamaru is North Otago’s largest city with a rich history.

Its origins, dating back to the gold rush era and Victorian days, are still reflected in a multitude of buildings and ongoing activities within the city and its nearby environs.

Explore this heritage in the Victorian Precinct, where you will find, shops, galleries and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most complete Victorian streetscapes and 19th century architecture.

This heritage and history are proudly celebrated each November during Oamaru’s Victorian Heritage Celebrations.

At home in the Precinct, you will find the wonderful world of steampunk. If you are a steampunk fan, save the date next year and plan your trip to coincide with the Steampunk New Zealand Festival at Queen’s Birthday weekend.

All manner of mouth-watering food and drink delights may be found, including craft whisky distilleries, award-winning restaurants, and locally crafted artisan foods, which will see foodies in their element.

Walking and biking are popular with some great options, and the Oamaru Public Gardens are among the prettiest in New Zealand.

Let’s not forget the wildlife options either. From the world’s smallest penguins in their natural environment at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, to the world’s rarest penguin – the yellow-eyed penguin – coming ashore at Bushy Beach, and cute fur seals, there’s plenty to see, do and enjoy.

Don’t forget to also check out what’s happening north, south, east and west of this vibrant city.

Artisan products, pedal power picnics, and penguins are just some of the exciting activities on offer in and around Oamaru.

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
Is nine stages, suitable for all ages, easy to intermediate grade, linking the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. Allow five to seven days to cycle the entire trail.

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Evening visits offer the chance to learn about the long-term conservation and research programmes caring for and learning about the penguins’ lives. Enjoy a guided visit and discover the world of the little blue penguins.

Moeraki Boulders
Are south of Oamaru, down the stunning Kakanui coastline. Leave your footprints at the famous boulders, explore the Moeraki Lighthouse trail out to the peninsular and spot yellow eyed penguins and New Zealand fur seals.

Steampunk HQ
Is a totally unique museum of art, sound and light, showing an altered universe set within an 1880s Grain Elevator building in Oamaru. Features include The Portal, a retro-futuristic mirror and lighting installation with original glowing light sculptures.

Bushy Beach Walking Track
Is a short distance (340m return) along a cliff-top to spot New Zealand fur seals and the rarest penguin in the world, the yellow-eyed penguin. There is a purpose-built viewing hide, from which to watch the yellow-eyed penguins come ashore. The track begins at the end of Bushy Beach Rd, at the Southern end of Oamaru. The beach closes at 3pm to avoid disrupting the penguins coming ashore.

The Clay Cliffs
Are amazing natural land forms, a geological wonder where sharp pinnacles and ridges are separated by steep and narrow ravines, reminiscent of the badlands. The Cliffs were created out of layers of silt and gravel deposited by ancient lakes and rivers around 20 million years ago. They have since been uplifted and tilted by the nearby active Ostler Fault, and eroded. Located on private land, there is a $5 per car fee.

Oamaru botanical gardens
Are among the oldest in the country, established in 1967. Named a garden of national significance, the 13 hectare public gardens reflect the unique style and Victorian heritage of Oamaru and the Waitaki through Oamaru stone and other features.