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One of NZ's most unique destinations
Adventure is personal; for some it’s jumping out of or off something, squeezing into tight spaces or embracing the feeling of free-falling but no matter what your adventure preference is, everyone has one thing in common. It’s about doing something brave, something you’ll never forget … taking that step into the unknown and feeling alive, inspired and ready to take on anything.
In the Waitaki, we have our own special kind of adventure that you’ll find nowhere else. Cycle New Zealand’s longest and most spectacular cycle trail, spend some time on our braided river system or see it all from above in a glider or Heli-flight.
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We've recommended a list of our top 10 things to see and do in Oamaru and the Waitaki but there really is so much more. Have fun venturing out and discovering your top 10.
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Visit mysterious ancient coastal stones
Situated on Koekohe Beach, the Moeraki Boulders are mysterious spherical stones formed millions of years ago weighing up to several tonnes and measuring up to several metres.
A popular spot for photographers the stones appear their most striking in the early morning and late afternoon light, only an hour from Oamaru the stones are a must visit on any South Island Road Trip.
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Cycle from Alps to Ocean
Featured as New Zealand’s longest cycle trail and described by many as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of New Zealand’s 22 Great Rides.
As the name suggests, the adventure begins at the foot of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s largest peak, then meanders its way past glacial-fed lakes, around golden tussock mountains out to the high country plains. Explore stunning landscapes on the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail, as you follow alongside the Waitaki Hydro lakes and dams out to the braided Waitaki river and green plains of the Waitaki Valley, eventually finishing at Oamaru Harbour and the shores of the Pacific Ocean.
Walk or cycle the trail your way, take a fully guided tour and let someone else take care of all the work except peddling for you, or build your own itinerary to take on the trail in your way.
Allow 4-6 days for the entire ride or there are shorter day excursion options available.
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The trail offers spectacular views and experiences including the unique Elephant Rocks, Lake Tekapo, the Clay Cliffs, Blue Penguins in their natural habitat, Limestone Cliffs, Maori Rock Art, High Country Stations and more.
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Meet Oamaru's Cutest Locals
No trip to Oamaru is complete without a visit to the blue penguin colony. These little penguins live around the harbour and for a unique experience you can take up a seat in the viewing stands to witness these little creatures returning from sea to their nests at night.
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Visit the colony during the day, or for evening viewing to watch Oamaru’s cutest little residents waddling ashore at dusk from a days’ fishing. Standing at just 30cm tall, the little blue penguins make up for every millimetre they lack in height with cuteness.
Penguins are not the only cute wildlife you will discover in Oamaru, We have plenty of seals too.
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Visit The Steampunk Capital
of the World
To view the world as it might have been; a visit to Steampunk HQ in Oamaru is a must. This steampunk attraction houses an eclectic collection of industrial steampunk sculptures, a metagalatic pipe organ and interesting collection of retro-futuristic sci-fi art, movies, sculpture and sound.
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So what might you ask is Steampunk? Steampunk is a quirky and fun genre of science fiction that features steam-powered technology. It is often set in an alternate, futuristic version of 19th century Victorian England steam powered devices – the ‘world gone mad’ as Victorian people may have imagined it. Examples are machines like those in the writing of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, and in television shows such as Dr. Who.
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Steampunk Headquarters is an interactive museum which allows for exploration and discovery.The average visit time is 45-60 minutes. Photography is encouraged.
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For passionate Steampunk Enthusiasts the annual Steampunk Festival held in Oamaru is a crowd pleaser.
Whether cheese, wine, whisky or craft beer is your favourite indulgence; you will find some of New Zealand finest produce right here in Oamaru and the greater Waitaki region.
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Oamaru boasts a number of exceptional, award winning restaurants and cafes that showcase local fresh produce.
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Be sure to check out our TASTE page for our dining guide and learn more about our local specialities, award wining restaurants and Farmers Market.
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Savour The Flavours
A stroll through the Oamaru Victorian Precinct is a step back in time experience showcasing New Zealand’s best preserved Victorian commercial streetscape.
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The original buildings, made from locally quarried limestone, are a testament to Oamaru’s boom era, when it was an thriving and important port town, sending the first frozen meat exports around the world.
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There is a lot to see and do in the precinct from the art galleries, artist studios, the curiosity shop, cafe's, restaurants, and heritage architecture. You can even dress up in Victorian costumes, and if you dare - try to ride a penny farthing!
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Oamaru on the whole proudly boasts some amazing limestone architecture. The main street and Victorian Precinct can easily be explored by foot and is a must visit destination to include in your itinerary.
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Step Back Into A Victorian Era
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Discover the
Majestic Beauty of The Lakes
The Waitaki Region is blessed to have access to four beautiful lakes; Aviemore, Benmore, Waitaki and Ohau.
The Lakes are home to numerous hikes, walks, hunting and A2O trails. Explore the native bush, mountain passes and water adventures on the Lakes.
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Explore Waitaki Whitestone Aspring Global Geopark
The Waitaki was formed under an ancient sea and is built on the remains of prehistoric creatures from a vanished world. This is the only Geopark you will find in New Zealand and it showcases an abundance of unique geological and geomorphological features including the karsted limestone at Elephant Rocks, as well as “badlands” and faults at Clay Cliffs.
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Straddling the 45th parallel South, on the east coast of the South Island, the geopark is bounded by mountains and sea, the remnants of fire and ice, and the powerful Waitaki River. At the heart of it all are spectacular areas of karst. Karst landscapes are underlain by limestone which has been eroded by dissolution, producing ridges, towers, fissures, sinkholes and other characteristic landforms.
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The karst landscape and its ‘whitestone’ are integral to the identity of the Waitaki region. The first people in the area found shelter in limestone caves, leaving now-treasured rock art. Today, the Vanished World Centre celebrates the wonderous fossils emerging from the region’s whitestone.
Oamaru's quaint harbour is a popular spot for both locals, and visitors alike. Holmes Wharf is the perfect spot to take in glorious sunrises and watch the waves crash over the breakwater built in 1884. Grab a coffee from The Galley and stroll around the harbour to the breakwater and Penguin Colony. Be sure to check out the Otago's Northern most rare species of Shags located at Sumpter Wharf on the way.
The Harbour features a Steampunk Playground like no other with art and sculpture, a giant Penny Farthing swing set, elephant slide, giant hamster wheel, flying fox and old time play ship to delight any imagination; making it an awesome place to explore for kids and adults alike. Directly opposite you will find the Kids Bike Skills Park specifically designed for young children to learn basic road safety, in a safe and fun place.
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Explore Oamaru's Quaint Harbour
& Steampunk Playground
The Oamaru Public Gardens are among the oldest in the country, opened officially in October 1876. The beautiful gardens distinctly reflect the unique style and heritage of Oamaru set among canopies of mature trees and themed plantings. Meander around streams and ponds and enjoy a tranquil charming experience.
The Gardens are open seven days per week and entry is free. Oamaru Public Gardens gardens are smoke-free. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Public toilet facilities and kids play ground located on site.
