Explore Oamaru and Waitaki's remarkable geological formations, wildlife and unique history. Check out the top eight things to do in Oamaru and Waitaki.
A visit to the Oamaru Victorian Precinct is an entertaining day out exploring the world as it appeared in Victoria times. There is a lot to see and do from the art galleries, artist studios, the curiosity shop, car museum, cafe's, restaurants, and heritage architecture to the option of hiring Victorian costumes, and if you dare - to try and ride a penny farthing!
Experience total relaxation at the Ōmarama (opens in new window)Hot Tubs(opens in new window). Set against the stunning Waitaki and Mackenzie Country scenery you can immerse yourself in pure mountain water as you enjoy views across the lake to the mountains during the day, or sit underneath a star filled sky at night. To truly rejuvenate you can experience the hot stone sauna and a therapeutic massage. A visit to Ōmarama will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed, ready to enjoy the rest of your holiday!
Just 20 minutes drive from Ōmarama are the Clay Cliffs. Originally formed more than one million years ago by the flow of ancient glaciers these unusual pinnacles form a maze of ravines to explore.
To view the world as it might have been a trip to Steampunk HQ(opens in new window) in Oamaru is a must. This steampunk attraction houses an eclectic collection of industrial steampunk sculptures, a metagalactic pipe organ and offers Pedal Punk cycle hire - a steampunk themed cycle that you can enjoy as you make your way around the town.
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.
For a scenic flight with a difference visit Waitaki, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Explore the Mackenzie basin as you soar through dramatic South Island scenery.
Explore stunning landscapes on the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail(opens in new window), stretching from Aoraki Mt Cook to Oamaru the trail can be completed as one trip over 4-8 days, or there are shorter sections that can be enjoyed on a day ride. The trail offers spectacular views and experiences including the unique Elephant Rocks, Lake Tekapo/Takapō, the Clay Cliffs, Blue Penguins in their natural habitat, Limestone Cliffs, Maori Rock Art, High Country Stations and more - with so much to see don't forget to show off your adventure #alps2ocean
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.
