attractions
It's all here
If seeing rather than doing is your thing then there are a number of attractions in Oamaru and the greater Waitaki that will keep you and your family entertained.
Surf Kakanui
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.
Victorian Precinct
Oamaru embraces its strong Victorian history and this is showcased strongly in its architecture, events and culture.
Boutique & Artisan Retail Therapy
If you are simply wanting to indulge in a little retail therapy then there are an array of boutiques, stores and galleries to delight your artistic or fashion senses.
Be sure to check out Art on Tyne, Housekeepers Design, Presence on Harbour, Tangles, Mrs Hyde, Design Federations, Riverstone Shops, Inspirations and William Bee Merchants to name but a few.
Steampunk Museum
Steampunk HQ, New Zealand’s premier steampunk experience is proudly based in the Victorian Precinct of Oamaru.
It sets out to portray an industrial version of steampunk. It is crazy, quirky and unique unlike any other visitor attraction in New Zealand.




Steampunk HQ must be experienced rather than explained.
Oamaru Opera House
The Oamaru Opera House is an intimate & thoroughly unique New Zealand venue, community owned, bringing you the latest in entertainment from around the globe.
Penguin Colony
The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides visitors with an opportunity to see little penguins in their natural environment. A tour during the day allows visitors to peek into the penguins’ nests, stroll through their habitat and learn about their fascinating lives. In the evening, visitors are captivated by watching the nightly arrival of penguins from their days’ fishing at sea.
Steam Train
Oamaru Steam and Rail was founded in 1985. A small tourist train is operated every Sunday from Oamaru's world famous historic precinct to the Victorian harbour. This is a fun way to see the harbour and Precinct.
Oamaru Public Gardens
A botanical wonderland from Victorian days, the Oamaru Public Gardens are a beautiful place to stroll and dream.
Pennyfarthings
Its not unusual to see the odd pennyfarthing rider on any regular day and you can definitely expect to see these quirky bikes during the Victorian Festival. The static pennyfarthing down at the Victorian Precinct makes a great snap shot for your holiday album.
Live Music Gigs
Check out our Events page for links to local live gigs. Scotts Brewery have a regular band and its a great way to while away a sunday afternoon.
Kakanui Sunflower Fields
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Riverstone Kitchen
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Riverstone Shops
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Riverstone Castle
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Grainstore Gallery
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Oamaru Farmers Market
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Steampunk Playground
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Oamaru Harbour
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Scotts Brewery Tour
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Whitestone Cheese Factory Tour
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Trotters Gorge
If you haven't done so already check out our top 12 experiences. We are sure you will find something for all the family to enjoy.
Elephant Rocks
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Shag Point
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Forrester Gallery
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Totara Estate
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Katiki Historic Reserve
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Janet Frame House
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Nicol's Blacksmith
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Vanished World Centre
The Vanished World Centre at Duntroon is the heart of the Vanished World Trail with displays that help explain and interpret the fossils, rocks, localities, and landforms along the Trail.
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Visitors wishing to participate in the fossil heritage of the Waitaki are able to gain a greater appreciation of the unique nature of the area by viewing these displays. Specimens are mostly from within a 20km radius of the village of Duntroon.
The fossils – whales, dolphins, and invertebrates, reveal the marine ecosystems of the Oligocene time some 20-30 million years ago.
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Top 10
If you haven't done so already be sure to check out our top 12 experiences. We are sure you will find something for all the family to enjoy.