Where Historic Streets, Coastal Wildlife & Quiet Country Charms Converge
 
Oamaru is a town of contrasts – where grand Victorian whitestone buildings stand proudly alongside windswept beaches, curious wildlife, and the gentle rhythm of small-town life. Stroll streets lined with heritage façades, duck into boutique cafés and artisan shops, then wander down to the harbour where little blue penguins waddle ashore as the sun dips toward the Waitaki Coast. Beyond the town, the Waitaki region stretches across rolling farmland, shimmering lakes, and dramatic river valleys, offering a patchwork of landscapes just waiting to be explored.
 
Days in Oamaru and the Waitaki unfold at their own pace. Explore Steampunk HQ and local galleries, pause at historic cemeteries and monuments, or follow coastal trails for sweeping sea views and encounters with fur seals and birdlife. Quiet country roads lead to charming villages, peaceful riverside spots, and hidden viewpoints where the Southern skies feel close enough to touch. Whether you’re tracing history, watching wildlife, or simply soaking in the mellow pace of the region, there’s a rhythm here that’s both restorative and full of small surprises.
 
This is your essential guide to the best things to do in Oamaru – highlighting heritage streets, coastal adventures, local flavours, and scenic escapes across the Waitaki district, so you can experience the region with curiosity, ease, and just the right touch of whimsy.