Guidebook for Oamaru

Kristin
Guidebook for Oamaru

Parks & Nature

This is a must stop! You could easily spend a couple hours being lost in the love of the wallabies. The wallabies roam freely in their areas and you get to walk amongst them and feed them. Of course once they see you w food they hoppity hop to you. They are soft and gentle when feeding from your hands. Clogs are provided, food is provided, and the price is extremely reasonable, plus you are supporting an amazing lady protecting and rescuing wallabies.
Tame Wallabies EnkleDooVery Korna
71 Bathgate Rd
This is a must stop! You could easily spend a couple hours being lost in the love of the wallabies. The wallabies roam freely in their areas and you get to walk amongst them and feed them. Of course once they see you w food they hoppity hop to you. They are soft and gentle when feeding from your hands. Clogs are provided, food is provided, and the price is extremely reasonable, plus you are supporting an amazing lady protecting and rescuing wallabies.
A fantastic spot for a walk and some wildlife spotting! This little gem is home to a fur seal colony and a variety of sea birds, but is also the most important breeding site for Yellow Eyed Penguins on the South Island and not to be missed. Entrance free. Please visit but make sure to support the volunteer workers with a generous donation. Check back with us for directions and the best times to see penguins as this changes throughout the year.
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Katiki Point Lighthouse
Lighthouse Road
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A fantastic spot for a walk and some wildlife spotting! This little gem is home to a fur seal colony and a variety of sea birds, but is also the most important breeding site for Yellow Eyed Penguins on the South Island and not to be missed. Entrance free. Please visit but make sure to support the volunteer workers with a generous donation. Check back with us for directions and the best times to see penguins as this changes throughout the year.
The limestone formations at Elephant Rocks are a site of fossils. In 2005 they were the backdrop to the Walt Disney film The chronicles of Narnia. They are situated near Duntroon, a 40-minute drive from Oamaru. Don't miss this special place. You will want to wander around the rocks and have your camera ready for spectacular scenery. Worth the drive just to see this but also for the country side on your way there (if you take the scenic drive via Weston).
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Elephant Rocks
Island Cliff-Duntroon Road
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The limestone formations at Elephant Rocks are a site of fossils. In 2005 they were the backdrop to the Walt Disney film The chronicles of Narnia. They are situated near Duntroon, a 40-minute drive from Oamaru. Don't miss this special place. You will want to wander around the rocks and have your camera ready for spectacular scenery. Worth the drive just to see this but also for the country side on your way there (if you take the scenic drive via Weston).
Discover river sculpted caves and great views out to sea, as well as see and hear many of New Zealand's native birds such as Tuis and Wood pigeons. Trotters Loop Track: 1h Directions: 35min south of Oamaru, just after Moeraki. At the Trotters Gorge sign turn right off SH1.
Trotters Gorge Road
Trotters Gorge Road
Discover river sculpted caves and great views out to sea, as well as see and hear many of New Zealand's native birds such as Tuis and Wood pigeons. Trotters Loop Track: 1h Directions: 35min south of Oamaru, just after Moeraki. At the Trotters Gorge sign turn right off SH1.
A chance to visit a former gun emplacement at Cape Wanbrow. A popular place for Mountain biking and dog walking with magnificent coastal views and access to a remote beach where you can find your own Paua shell.
Cape Wanbrow
A chance to visit a former gun emplacement at Cape Wanbrow. A popular place for Mountain biking and dog walking with magnificent coastal views and access to a remote beach where you can find your own Paua shell.
Renowned for their beauty, the Gardens were established in 1876 and encompass 13 hectares of magnificent trees, shrubberies and flower beds. They are set out in a series of Victorian inspired “rooms” linked by a series of walkways. The Gardens have a special place in the heart of the community.
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Oamaru Közparkjai
17 Chelmer St
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Renowned for their beauty, the Gardens were established in 1876 and encompass 13 hectares of magnificent trees, shrubberies and flower beds. They are set out in a series of Victorian inspired “rooms” linked by a series of walkways. The Gardens have a special place in the heart of the community.
One of Oamaru’s local Cricket fields, the Park and Pavilion have fantastic views over the Harbour.
King George Park
31A Tyne Street
One of Oamaru’s local Cricket fields, the Park and Pavilion have fantastic views over the Harbour.
The Skyline Walk takes you high into the hills behind the town and guarantees a good workout. Beginning at Fenwick Park, the 4.6 kilometre track is uphill most of the way, but your motivation is the amazing views from the top. Tall pine trees, fantails, bellbirds and native forest make the walk scenic as well as challenging.
Skyline Walk
The Skyline Walk takes you high into the hills behind the town and guarantees a good workout. Beginning at Fenwick Park, the 4.6 kilometre track is uphill most of the way, but your motivation is the amazing views from the top. Tall pine trees, fantails, bellbirds and native forest make the walk scenic as well as challenging.
The South Hill Walkway runs between Takaro Park and Lookout Point - a distance of around two kilometres. You'll walk through Oamaru's historic precinct and have the option of a detour to the penguin colony. From Lookout Point the views of the town and ocean are spectacular.
South Hill Walk
The South Hill Walkway runs between Takaro Park and Lookout Point - a distance of around two kilometres. You'll walk through Oamaru's historic precinct and have the option of a detour to the penguin colony. From Lookout Point the views of the town and ocean are spectacular.

Entertainment & Activities

Steampunk for kiddies: this unusual playground includes swings suspended from a giant penny farthing, a slippery pole accessed from an armoured elephant, and a giant hamster wheel.
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Steampunk playground
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Steampunk for kiddies: this unusual playground includes swings suspended from a giant penny farthing, a slippery pole accessed from an armoured elephant, and a giant hamster wheel.

Sightseeing

Great views, great photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. From there explore Cape Wanbrow.
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Oamaru Lookout Point
1 Tamar St
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Great views, great photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. From there explore Cape Wanbrow.
Note the width of the main street, this was to ensure ease in turning ox carts. The Main Street is home to many significant buildings including the Oamaru Museum, Library, the Opera House, the Forrester Gallery, Information Centre and the former Post Office (now Waitaki District HISTORIC PRECINCT Council Offices)
Thames Street
Thames Street
Note the width of the main street, this was to ensure ease in turning ox carts. The Main Street is home to many significant buildings including the Oamaru Museum, Library, the Opera House, the Forrester Gallery, Information Centre and the former Post Office (now Waitaki District HISTORIC PRECINCT Council Offices)
The old Victorian Rail Overbridge that used to link the town to friendly bay is now been reconstructed and given a second life as a tourist attraction.
Victorian Rail Overbridge
4 Wansbeck St
The old Victorian Rail Overbridge that used to link the town to friendly bay is now been reconstructed and given a second life as a tourist attraction.
The Victorian Precinct: Consisting of only a couple of blocks centred on Harbour and Tyne Sts, this atmospheric enclave has some of NZ’s best-preserved Victorian commercial buildings. It's also ground zero for all that is hip, cool and freaky in Oamaru, and one of the most fun places to window-shop in the entire South Island.
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Harbour Street
Harbour Street
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The Victorian Precinct: Consisting of only a couple of blocks centred on Harbour and Tyne Sts, this atmospheric enclave has some of NZ’s best-preserved Victorian commercial buildings. It's also ground zero for all that is hip, cool and freaky in Oamaru, and one of the most fun places to window-shop in the entire South Island.
See the Blue Penguins come in from the sea to their nesting sights every evening when the sunsets at the Oamaru Harbour. An Oamaru icon. Protected, predator free site the Blue Penguins are well loved and taken care of by Department of Conservation staff at the Penguin Colony. Daytime viewing is also available. Check out the website.https://www.penguins.co.nz
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Oamaru Kék Pingvin Kolónia
17 Waterfront Rd
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See the Blue Penguins come in from the sea to their nesting sights every evening when the sunsets at the Oamaru Harbour. An Oamaru icon. Protected, predator free site the Blue Penguins are well loved and taken care of by Department of Conservation staff at the Penguin Colony. Daytime viewing is also available. Check out the website.https://www.penguins.co.nz
Jump on the little red steam train for a ride from the station on the corner of Itchen and Humber Street, past the Victorian precinct and down to the Harbour. Fun for all the family.
Oamaru Steam and Rail
Harbour Street
Jump on the little red steam train for a ride from the station on the corner of Itchen and Humber Street, past the Victorian precinct and down to the Harbour. Fun for all the family.

Food Scene

Located in the historic precinct is this wonderful Ice Cream Parlour. The man behind the counter is a dedicated and enthusiastic connoisseur of his wares. Coffee walnut, Jelly tip, Salted Caramel Popcorn, Licorice, Chocolate, Coconut Marshmellow ...to only name a few of his delicious treats!
Deja Moo
Harbour Street
Located in the historic precinct is this wonderful Ice Cream Parlour. The man behind the counter is a dedicated and enthusiastic connoisseur of his wares. Coffee walnut, Jelly tip, Salted Caramel Popcorn, Licorice, Chocolate, Coconut Marshmellow ...to only name a few of his delicious treats!
Being someone who loves and drinks coffee to function, Tees Street not only have the best coffee (supreme) but has excellent food to match. The atmosphere is intimate and has a great feel.
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Tees Street Cafe
3 Tees St
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Being someone who loves and drinks coffee to function, Tees Street not only have the best coffee (supreme) but has excellent food to match. The atmosphere is intimate and has a great feel.
One of the best steaks I have ever eaten!! Great service, wonderful ambience, great wine list and delicious local cheese.
Cucina 1871
Itchen Street
One of the best steaks I have ever eaten!! Great service, wonderful ambience, great wine list and delicious local cheese.
If you take the coastal road on your way to or from the Moeraki Boulders don´t miss the Coast Cafe! Great takeaway Fish and Chips, fresh blue cod. Enjoy a coffee with delicious homemade cakes, while taking in the stunning sea views. Delish! Open ONLY Thursday-Sunday
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Coast Cafe Restaurant and Takeaway
913 Beach Rd
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If you take the coastal road on your way to or from the Moeraki Boulders don´t miss the Coast Cafe! Great takeaway Fish and Chips, fresh blue cod. Enjoy a coffee with delicious homemade cakes, while taking in the stunning sea views. Delish! Open ONLY Thursday-Sunday
Selling both European-style bread and pastries and Kiwi meat pies, this Dutch bakery covers its bases well. Grab an outdoor seat and watch Oamaru's heritage streetlife scroll past like an old-time movie.
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Harbour Street Bakery, Oamaru
4 Harbour St
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Selling both European-style bread and pastries and Kiwi meat pies, this Dutch bakery covers its bases well. Grab an outdoor seat and watch Oamaru's heritage streetlife scroll past like an old-time movie.
Rustic restaurant serving locally sourced, market-fresh seafood & wine in a waterside setting at the old jetty. Hours: Wed-Sun 10AM to 9PM. Phone: 03 4394480. Take a breath absorb the sea air and relax. The most delicious menu of fresh seafood in Otago. Family friendly with helpful and professional service. You will need to pre-book especially on holiday weekends.
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Fleurs Place
169 Haven St
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Rustic restaurant serving locally sourced, market-fresh seafood & wine in a waterside setting at the old jetty. Hours: Wed-Sun 10AM to 9PM. Phone: 03 4394480. Take a breath absorb the sea air and relax. The most delicious menu of fresh seafood in Otago. Family friendly with helpful and professional service. You will need to pre-book especially on holiday weekends.
18 km north of Oamaru on State Hwy 1. Riverstone Kitchen's Food ethos is buy local, eat seasonally and eat well. Depending on your taste and budget you can order anything from coffee and desert/cake, lunch, or a fine dining experience for dinner. View their own organic garden where the chefs source their produce from, the gift shop and admire Dot and Neill's newly built Castle from across the lake while the kids play in the colourful playground.
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Riverstone Kitchen
1431 State Hwy 1
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18 km north of Oamaru on State Hwy 1. Riverstone Kitchen's Food ethos is buy local, eat seasonally and eat well. Depending on your taste and budget you can order anything from coffee and desert/cake, lunch, or a fine dining experience for dinner. View their own organic garden where the chefs source their produce from, the gift shop and admire Dot and Neill's newly built Castle from across the lake while the kids play in the colourful playground.
Portside Restaurant takes in the views of Oamaru Harbour and the Pacific ocean. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sunshine, or inside and watch a moody storm in all it’s glory Open 11am to 9 pm daily. Closed Wednesdays. Dine all day The doors are open from 11am till late at Portside (closed Wednesday) so come down and relax anytime of day with friends or for a bit of me time. Lunch There is plenty on offer with our lunch menu (10:30am till 2:30pm) from a light snack, finger foods, platters to share, or the best locally sourced dishes. Dinner The Dinner menu starts at 5:30pm and is filled with choices to fully satisfy your appetite and palette.
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Portside Restaurant & Bar
Waterfront Road
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Portside Restaurant takes in the views of Oamaru Harbour and the Pacific ocean. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sunshine, or inside and watch a moody storm in all it’s glory Open 11am to 9 pm daily. Closed Wednesdays. Dine all day The doors are open from 11am till late at Portside (closed Wednesday) so come down and relax anytime of day with friends or for a bit of me time. Lunch There is plenty on offer with our lunch menu (10:30am till 2:30pm) from a light snack, finger foods, platters to share, or the best locally sourced dishes. Dinner The Dinner menu starts at 5:30pm and is filled with choices to fully satisfy your appetite and palette.

Drinks & Nightlife

Drop into this old waterfront warehouse to sample the output of Oamaru's premier craft brewers. Slouch against the counter for a tasting or head out onto the sunny deck for a pint and a pizza.
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Scotts Brewing Co.
1 Wansbeck St
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Drop into this old waterfront warehouse to sample the output of Oamaru's premier craft brewers. Slouch against the counter for a tasting or head out onto the sunny deck for a pint and a pizza.
Fantastic array of Whiskeys to tickle the tastebuds of many! An array of gift ideas + locally made chocolates & non alcoholic product as well for the non Whiskey Drinkers. Matthew is a great salesperson, fantastic manners & knows his stuff. A welcoming environment. My "go to" place for the special gift of Whiskey like no other!
The New Zealand Whisky Collection
11 Wansbeck St
Fantastic array of Whiskeys to tickle the tastebuds of many! An array of gift ideas + locally made chocolates & non alcoholic product as well for the non Whiskey Drinkers. Matthew is a great salesperson, fantastic manners & knows his stuff. A welcoming environment. My "go to" place for the special gift of Whiskey like no other!
3 Tyne Street, Oamaru 03-434 6247 Built in 1877, in the heart of the Victorian precinct, fully renovated. Soak up the atmosphere in the bar, with live music, great food, friendly service and enjoy the company of others. Or stay a night in the restored hotel accommodation – the Criterion can cater to everyone!
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Criterion Hotel
3 Tyne St
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3 Tyne Street, Oamaru 03-434 6247 Built in 1877, in the heart of the Victorian precinct, fully renovated. Soak up the atmosphere in the bar, with live music, great food, friendly service and enjoy the company of others. Or stay a night in the restored hotel accommodation – the Criterion can cater to everyone!

Arts & Culture

You will enjoy a long meander through the wide selection of arts and crafts in this gallery. It's a visual smorgasboard that seduces every taste. The talent to create these displays will have you in awe.
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Grainstore Gallery
9 Harbour St
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You will enjoy a long meander through the wide selection of arts and crafts in this gallery. It's a visual smorgasboard that seduces every taste. The talent to create these displays will have you in awe.
The North Otago Museum is a perfect day to learn about the history of Oamaru and the Waitaki District. It is a cultural hub and is perfect for a rainy day and some peace and quiet.
North Otago Museum
58 Thames St
The North Otago Museum is a perfect day to learn about the history of Oamaru and the Waitaki District. It is a cultural hub and is perfect for a rainy day and some peace and quiet.
A unique heritage experience nestled in the heart of Oamaru's Victorian Precinct. Fun, engaging and interactive, Whitestone City is fun for all the family. Open from Tuesday-Sunday, 10am - 5.30pm.
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Whitestone City
12 Harbour St
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A unique heritage experience nestled in the heart of Oamaru's Victorian Precinct. Fun, engaging and interactive, Whitestone City is fun for all the family. Open from Tuesday-Sunday, 10am - 5.30pm.
9 Thames St, Oamaru A unique interplay of art and architecture within a stunning 1884 Whitestone former bank. Phone: 03 433 0853
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Forrester Gallery
9 Thames St
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9 Thames St, Oamaru A unique interplay of art and architecture within a stunning 1884 Whitestone former bank. Phone: 03 433 0853
8 Tyne Street A funky wee Art Gallery right in the Heart of Oamaru's beautiful Victorian Town. Phone: 0276445462 Email: ArtOnTyne@gmail.com
Art On Tyne
34 Tyne St
8 Tyne Street A funky wee Art Gallery right in the Heart of Oamaru's beautiful Victorian Town. Phone: 0276445462 Email: ArtOnTyne@gmail.com
3 Harbour Street Crafted: Waitaki Artisan Gallery, local artisans who creative quality wares using traditional skills and contemporary style and design.
Crafted
3 Harbour St
3 Harbour Street Crafted: Waitaki Artisan Gallery, local artisans who creative quality wares using traditional skills and contemporary style and design.
Harbour St Oamaru Works by Jill Bayley, Nikki O'Brien & Robyn Douglas. Unique pieces in glass! Phone: 03 434 3006
The Glass Room Gallery
12 Harbour St
Harbour St Oamaru Works by Jill Bayley, Nikki O'Brien & Robyn Douglas. Unique pieces in glass! Phone: 03 434 3006