Oamaru Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
town in North Otago, in the South Island of New Zealand
About Oamaru
Oamaru does two things better than anywhere else in New Zealand – beautiful Victorian architecture andlittle blue penguinviewing. A strange mix in a strange, interesting town. Oamaru started its existence in the mid-1800s as one of a few large sheep farms in North Otago. The natural harbour was recognised and a breakwater built to facilitate trade. Buildings sprung up – banks, grain stores, post offices and a court house – built with a type of limestone calledOamaru stonebecause it is sourced locally and used all over the country. Oamaru fell on hard times and lacked resources to pull down the older buildings while other towns were replacing older buildings with new ones. As a result Oamaru has a fantastic collection of older buildings in an unspoilt precinct by the harbour. Better times h
Top Attractions in Oamaru
Explore the best things to see and do in Oamaru:
- ★56 Eden Street
- ★Bushy Beach
- ★Moeraki Boulders
- ★Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
- ★Steampunk HQ
- ★Steampunk NZ Festival
- ★Totara Estate
- ★Town lookout
Where to Eat in Oamaru
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Riverstone Kitchen
Where to Stay in Oamaru
- 🏨Kakanui Camping Ground
- 🏨Oamaru Backpackers
- 🏨Pen-y-bryn Lodge
Oamaru Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including: