Introducing Oamaru
Oamaru, located northeast of Dunedin, is a town and port in the southeastern part of New Zealand's South Island. It boasts a rich and diverse array of tourism resources. Oamaru is known as the "Penguin Town" for its famous blue penguins, with the best time to see them being before sunset. Other attractions include the unique Victorian architecture of New Zealand, the renowned Moeraki Boulders, and the Oamaru Historic District.
Strolling through Oamaru's streets feels like stepping into a fairytale dream. New Zealand's most distinctive historical buildings, quaint Roman columns, time-worn shop signs, brick walls that seem to date back to another world, cafes shimmering in the shadows of old buildings, and the old post office built in 1864 are all imbued with European style. Oamaru's public parks are also highly regarded, featuring Victorian pavilions and oriental gardens.
Climate and best time to travel
Temperate maritime climate;
Best in Spring and Autumn
Most Popular FAQs for Oamaru
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Oamaru is a historic town in New Zealand’s South Island, known for its 19th-century limestone architecture. It was a prominent port town and trading center, and today it preserves its Victorian heritage, making it a cultural and tourist hub. The town is also famous for the blue penguin colony and local arts scene.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Oamaru is located on the east coast of the South Island, between Dunedin and Christchurch. Accessible by car via State Highway 1, regional buses, or trains. Walking and cycling are ideal for exploring the town and precinct areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Oamaru Victorian Precinct: generally open all day; shops and museums have varying hours (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony: dusk tours daily; best viewing in summer months (December–February)
- Best time to visit: summer and early autumn for pleasant weather and penguin viewing
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony: NZD $22–$30, tickets online or at the entrance
- Steampunk HQ: NZD $10–$15, tickets on-site
- Museums and precinct attractions: generally NZD $5–$15, payable at the venue
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended for the Blue Penguin Colony during peak season, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead. Other attractions usually allow walk-in visits.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
1–2 full days to explore the Victorian Precinct, penguin colony, and nearby attractions.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Oamaru Victorian Precinct
- Blue Penguin Colony
- Steampunk HQ
- Whitestone City artisan shops
- Oamaru Harbour and coastal walks
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available for the Blue Penguin Colony and some Victorian Precinct attractions, usually in English. Self-guided options are common for museums and town walks.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Oamaru Harbour at sunset
- Victorian Precinct streets and historic buildings
- Blue Penguin Colony observation areas
- Steampunk HQ exhibits and machinery
- Nearby Moeraki Boulders
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Morning: Explore the Victorian Precinct and Whitestone City shops
- Afternoon: Visit Steampunk HQ and Oamaru Harbour
- Evening: Attend the Blue Penguin Colony tour at dusk
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are primarily at the Blue Penguin Colony. Occasional special events occur in the Victorian Precinct and Steampunk HQ, especially during summer festivals.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Peak season is summer (December–February). Weekdays outside school holidays are less crowded. Winter is quieter but some attractions may have limited hours.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets in town and precinct areas
- Cafes and restaurants in the Victorian Precinct
- Gift and souvenir shops in Whitestone City
- Rest areas along the harbour and coastal walks
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The Victorian Precinct, harbour, and most museums are accessible. Steampunk HQ and coastal walks may have uneven surfaces. The penguin colony has accessible viewing platforms for disabled visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors or local markets.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Whitestone Cheese Café
- SteamPunk Café
- Old Oamaru Café
- Harbour-side eateries serving seafood and local cuisine
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most cafes; halal options are limited but may be requested at larger eateries.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- The Criterion Hotel
- Pen-y-bryn Lodge
- Oamaru TOP 10 Holiday Park
- Various boutique B&Bs in the Victorian Precinct
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Moeraki Boulders
- Shag Point and coastal wildlife areas
- Waitaki Valley vineyards and historic towns
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Locally made crafts and artworks
- Blue penguin-themed merchandise
- Whitestone cheese and gourmet foods
- Steampunk-inspired collectibles
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Self-drive along State Highway 1 to Dunedin or Christchurch
- Regional bus services connecting to nearby towns
- Guided day tours to Moeraki Boulders and Waitaki Valley
