17 Unmissable Things to Do in Oamaru: Penguins, Steampunk & Pure Quirk
Ever heard of a town where penguins waddle across the road at sunset and steampunk meets Victorian elegance? That’s Oamaru. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t usually make the top of a New Zealand itinerary, but it absolutely should.
I’ve visited more than once (partly for the penguins, I’ll admit), and every time I discover something new. Oamaru may be small, but it’s got a big personality. Think quirky galleries, historic streets, and unexpected surprises around every corner.
I’ll take you through 17 of the best things to do in Oamaru, whether you’re here for the wildlife, the weirdness, or just looking for a day trip that’s delightfully different.
Top Oamaru Attractions You’ll Want to Add to Your Itinerary
Oamaru might be small, but it offers a surprisingly wide range of options for all types of visitors – art, history, nature, and great food and drink. Whether you’re crafting a full Oamaru itinerary or just passing through, there’s something here to match every interest.
A quick note before we start: many of the museums and attractions in Oamaru close at 4 pm rather than 5 pm, so keep that in mind when planning your day.
Little Blue Penguins
If I could only recommend one activity in Oamaru, it would be a visit to the Little Blue Penguin colony.
Victorian Precinct
Spend a couple of hours with a coffee, wandering around the Victorian era shops and buildings.
Moeraki Boulders
These circular boulders are some of the most famous natural sites in the South Island.
📌 This is just one of many epic NZ destinations — see all my New Zealand travel guides here.
See the Little Blue Penguins
Let’s get straight to it. I love these animals. I’ve seen them in Napier, Brisbane, Christchurch, and Auckland.
They are the world’s smallest penguins and are only found in New Zealand and Australia.
To get technical, what are commonly called Little Blue Penguins (sometimes fairy penguins in Australia, and kororā in the Māori language) are made up of two separate species, but given that most of us aren’t taxonomy experts, I’m going to put that to the side.
There are several zoos and other centres around New Zealand that have colonies of penguins that have been injured and can’t be released into the wild, but if you want the experience of seeing these little birds return from the ocean, Oamaru is the best place.
You can visit the Little Blue Penguin colony to watch them return to the safety of their nests in a reserve free of predators. The number of penguins returning varies quite a bit according to season, with the largest numbers in the New Zealand summer. On the night of my last visit, we saw 153.
They return each night just after sunset, and the staff will give a bit of background on the penguins and their behavior. You might see some seals lounging on the rocks near their path that the penguins take – don’t worry, the type of seals there only go for fish.
The session starts shortly before the time they are expected to return, but I recommend arriving earlier than that to get the best seats. You’ll book either standard or VIP seating, but you aren’t given a specific seat, so arrive early for the best views. You don’t have to stay for the entire session, you can leave when you want.
It’s one of the more expensive activities in Oamaru, but as ticket sales help provide a safe place for the penguins to nest, I don’t mind too much.
The penguins are incredibly cute and the first time I saw them waddle up from the ocean I couldn’t stop smiling. I’m sure they’ll do the same for you!
If you want to see the penguins but can’t get to Oamaru, some of my favourite alternatives are the International Ice Centre in Christchurch or the National Aquarium in Napier.
Step Back in Time in the Victorian Precinct
If you arrive in Oamaru from the north end of the town, you could be forgiven for thinking it’s a bit of an ugly place. But stick with it, and once you reach the southern end of the town it gets a lot prettier. This is where the older Victorian buildings can be found.
This compact area, centred around Harbour and Tyne Streets, is made up of beautifully restored 19th-century buildings constructed from local Oamaru limestone. It’s one of the best-preserved historic areas in the country, and it’s all within easy walking distance.
The buildings now house everything from antique shops and galleries to bookshops, craftspeople, and small museums. You’ll find local artisans selling handmade goods, old-fashioned sweet shops, and places like the Grainstore Gallery, which is part art space, part curiosity shop.
It’s a great place to wander slowly. I spent a good chunk of the afternoon just popping into shops and chatting to the locals—many of whom are more than happy to share a bit about the area’s history or what makes their shop different.
If you are interested in learning more about the history of the town, take a look at the New Zealand history website’s guide to Oamaru.
Explore the Waitaki Museum & Archive
If you’re interested in local history, the Waitaki Museum & Archive is a must-visit. Located at 60 Thames Street, this museum offers a comprehensive look into the area’s natural and cultural heritage through a variety of thoughtfully curated exhibitions.
One of the standout exhibitions is “Kā Puipuiaki o Korotuaheka,” which showcases a significant collection of Māori taoka (treasures) dating back to the earliest days of settlement. This collection includes thousands of stone tools, adornments, and items used for fishing and hunting, all discovered at the mouth of the Waitaki River.
The upper floor features “Ballad of the Waitaki,” an exhibition dedicated to the 20th-century history of the region, providing insights into the area’s more recent past.
I visited on a very quiet day, and had a long chat with the lady at the entrance stand about the world, local sites, and she wandered around the galleries near the entrance so she could point out some interesting artefacts while keeping an eye out for other visitors arriving!
There was also a stunning temporary exhibition on the work of David Elliot, a writer and illustrator who has been inspired by the Otago coastline. When I arrived, the exhibition was blocked off as they were still putting things in place, and then another staff member came to find me to tell me it was open.
And I’m so glad they did, some of the sculptures of 3-D models literally coming out of the pages of books were absolutely beautiful. It’s worth seeing what temporary displays they have going on.
Best of all, it is free to visit the museum, although donations are appreciated.
Dress up at Whitestone City
In Oamaru’s historic Victorian precinct, Whitestone City offers an interactive glimpse into the town’s 19th-century heritage. Housed in a restored grain store from 1882, this heritage hub allows visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Oamaru’s past.
Interactive Experiences:
- Victorian Attire: Visitors have the opportunity to dress in period costumes, enhancing the immersive experience.
- Traditional Games: Engage in games and activities that were popular during the Victorian era.
- Authentic Streetscape: Explore a recreated Victorian streetscape, complete with shops and displays that reflect the daily life of the time.
One of the shops is a pharmacy with an early copy of a St John’s First Aid guide – just in case you need to know what to do if a lady’s dress catches on fire or she finds herself overtaken by hysteria… It’s an interesting reminder of how the medical community has historically regarded what they consider to be female conditions.
There is also a short film playing on a loop about the development of Oamaru. Rather than a set entrance fee, you pay what you think it was worth at the exit.
See the famous Moeraki Boulders
A short drive south of Oamaru brings you to the Moeraki Boulders, a series of large, spherical stones scattered along Koekohe Beach. These boulders, some measuring up to two meters in diameter, have intrigued visitors for years.
The Moeraki Boulders began forming around 60 million years ago. They developed through the cementation of Paleocene mudstone on the ancient seafloor, with calcite gradually binding the sediments into spherical shapes. Over time, coastal erosion has exposed these boulders, revealing their unique forms.
According to Māori tradition, the boulders are remnants of calabashes and kumara (sweet potatoes) that washed ashore from the wreck of the legendary canoe, Arai-te-uru.
Aim to visit during low tide when the boulders are fully visible. Sunrise offers particularly striking lighting conditions for photography.
A little note – some photographs give the impression that lots of these boulders are taller than you. In reality, although there are a couple of big ones, most of the boulders are half-buried in the sand and are smaller than photos might have you believe.
I still think they are worth seeing, but I don’t want to give you an unrealistic impression about how big they are.
There are two main access points:
- Moeraki Boulders Café: Provides a boardwalk leading directly to the beach, with a suggested donation for maintenance.
- Department of Conservation (DOC) Car Park: Offers a longer beach walk to the boulders, approximately 10–15 minutes.
- Facilities: The café near the boulders offers refreshments and restrooms, while the DOC car park has limited facilities.
Visit Steampunk HQ
Set inside a grand old grain warehouse near the harbour, this quirky museum is like stepping into an alternate version of the 1800s—part science fiction, part industrial art installation. The first time I wandered into Steampunk HQ, I felt like I’d stepped into a Tardis made of gears.
Steampunk HQ is a celebration of all things eccentric. Inside, you’ll find a collection of sculptures, contraptions, and reimagined machinery built from scrap metal and salvaged parts. It’s dimly lit, a little eerie, and definitely different from your average museum experience.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to see one of the museum highlights – The Portal, an immersive light and sound installation. Thanks to my photosensitive epilepsy, I have to avoid anything with weird or flashing lights.
There aren’t detailed explanations for every piece, but that’s part of the appeal. You’re encouraged to wander and interpret it however you like. It’s not just for steampunk fans either—if you’re even a bit curious or enjoy slightly offbeat places, it’s worth the relatively low entrance fee.
It is a bit of a niche option, so it won’t be for everyone, but I quite like a quirky museum.
Outside, don’t miss the steam-powered locomotive sculpture that occasionally lets off a burst of flame and smoke. Even if you’re short on time, it’s easy to pop in for 30–45 minutes, and the whole thing is very photogenic (in a post-apocalyptic, Mad Max kind of way), and photography is encouraged.
Whether you’re into the steampunk aesthetic or not, it’s one of those only-in-Oamaru experiences that’s weird in the best possible way. Between its offbeat art and time-warped architecture, Oamaru easily ranks among the most unique places to visit in New Zealand.
Oamaru Public Gardens
Established in 1876, the Oamaru Public Gardens are New Zealand’s oldest public gardens, reflecting the town’s Victorian heritage. Located on Severn Street, these gardens offer a tranquil retreat with a variety of features to explore.
Key Features:
- Craig Fountain: Situated near the entrance, this Italian marble fountain is surrounded by vibrant flowerbeds.
- Wonderland Statue: Created by Scottish sculptor Thomas J. Clapperton and donated in 1926, this statue resides in the Wonderland Garden, accessible through the Moon Gate amidst flowers and waterfalls.
- Japanese Red Bridge and Oriental Garden: These elements add an Asian influence to the gardens, providing picturesque spots for visitors.
- Fragrant Garden: Designed to engage the senses, this area features a variety of aromatic plants.
The gardens also include a glasshouse, band rotunda, aviary, peacock house, sundial, croquet lawns, wishing well, and a playground, catering to visitors of all ages. Spanning 13 hectares, the Oamaru Public Gardens are open year-round with free admission.
The Forrester Gallery
Located at 9 Thames Street, this gallery is housed in a striking neo-classical building constructed in 1884, originally serving as the Bank of New South Wales. The building’s grand façade, adorned with imposing columns, sis another example of Oamaru’s impressive Victorian architecture.
The art inside is primarily modern, with a mix of paintings, photography and sculptures. I’m not an art expert, but I enjoy wandering around galleries even if I don’t really ‘get’ the art.
Some of it was beyond me, some of it was beautiful.
It’s another attraction that is free to visit, so I recommend popping in even if only for a brief visit. It’s not a big gallery so you don’t have to spend long there.
Lots of the artwork is by local artists who might not otherwise get much exposure, and when I visited, there was a heartbreaking temporary exhibition about the work and sadly short life of the artist Arrow Moon.
The Janet Frame House
Literature enthusiasts visiting Oamaru might appreciate a visit to the Janet Frame House at 56 Eden Street. This modest dwelling was the childhood home of renowned New Zealand author Janet Frame from 1931 to 1943.
Although she isn’t well-known outside of New Zealand, she did win several awards for her work which include novels, short stories and an autobiography.
She had a rather tragic childhood, marked by the death of two of her siblings. She also suffered from mental health difficulties and was admitted to psychiatric wards on several occasions.
The house offers insights into Frame’s early life and the environment that shaped her writing. Visitors can explore rooms that have been preserved or reconstructed based on family recollections, providing a glimpse into the author’s formative years. The surrounding garden has been maintained in a style reminiscent of the period, offering a tranquil space for reflection.
The house is open each day between November and April, and admission costs $10.
Bushy Beach Reserve
Just a short drive from Oamaru’s town centre, Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe some of New Zealand’s distinctive wildlife in their natural habitat. This coastal reserve is renowned for sightings of yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) and New Zealand fur seals (kekeno).
Wildlife Viewing:
- Yellow-Eyed Penguins: Among the world’s rarest penguin species, these birds are best observed from the viewing hide at the reserve. For the best chance to see them, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. To avoid disturbing the penguins, access to the beach is restricted between 3 pm and 9 am.
- Fur Seals: Often seen lounging on the rocks below the cliffs, these marine mammals can be observed throughout the day from the designated viewing platforms along the track.
Bushy Beach Track:
The track is an easy 340-meter return walk that zigzags across the top of the cliff on the south side of Cape Wanbrow. It leads to a viewing platform and a hide for penguin watching. The walk offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Access and Tips:
- Location: The track starts at the end of Bushy Beach Road, at the southern end of Oamaru.
- Parking: Available at the track entrance. Note that the last part of the road is quite steep and may not be suitable for larger vehicles like camper vans.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for penguin activity. Remember to keep noise to a minimum and maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife to ensure their protection and your safety.
Whitestone Cheese
I didn’t know anything about Whitestone Cheese until I was in Oamaru and saw a street sign pointing towards it, so could easily have missed it entirely.
Founded in 1987 by Bob and Sue Berry, Whitestone Cheese is a family-owned artisan cheese company. The Berrys, fourth-generation Otago farmers, established the company during a challenging period of droughts and economic downturns in the 1980s. They began by converting a garage into a small cheese factory, sourcing milk from local farms.
Over the years, Whitestone Cheese has expanded its operations and now offers a range of over 25 cheese varieties. Notable among these is the award-winning Windsor Blue, which has garnered national and international accolades.
Guided Factory Tours:
For those interested in the cheesemaking process, Whitestone Cheese offers guided factory tours. These tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at cheese production, from creation to tasting. Visitors can observe the process through viewing galleries, participate in informative talks, and enjoy a cheese tasting session.
Diner & Deli:
Adjacent to the factory, the Whitestone Cheese Diner & Deli offers a culinary experience centred around their cheeses. The menu features gourmet burgers, the renowned cheese rolls, and a selection of milkshakes. The deli section provides hand-cut specialty cheeses, giftware, and curated deli products that pair well with their cheeses.
If you are a foodie, this would be a great choice for your Oamaru visit, however as I lean more towards the museum and gallery end of things (and the penguins, always the penguins), it isn’t so high on my list.
Check out the Farmer’s Market
If you are in Oamaru on a Sunday morning, head over to the farmer’s market, open between 9.30am and 1pm.
As well as the typical meats, fruit and veggies that may not be of interest if you are only briefly visiting, you can also find a coffee cart, bakery stand, iconic cheese rolls, and locally produced honey products.
I’m adding the market to my list for my next visit to Oamaru (I’ll definitely go back to the town in future), as I’ve yet to be there on a Sunday morning.
You can also often get some of the local Whitestone cheese if you don’t make it to the cheese factory.
Try Some Local Beers
Oamaru’s craft beer scene offers visitors a taste of locally brewed specialties in unique settings. Here are a couple of breweries you might consider exploring:
Scotts Brewing Co
Located at 1 Wansbeck Street, Scotts Brewing Co is a family-owned brewery that prides itself on crafting a diverse range of beers. Their selection includes options like the Pale Ale and Pilsner, as well as gluten-free varieties.
The brewery features a spacious taproom with views of the harbour, providing a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their offerings. They also serve a menu of gourmet pizzas and other dishes that complement their beers. Scotts Brewing Co is open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Craftwork Brewery
Situated in Oamaru’s Victorian precinct, Craftwork Brewery is a small, Belgian-style brewery known for its artisanal approach. They produce a variety of Belgian-inspired ales, focusing on quality and traditional methods.
The tasting room offers an intimate setting to sample their beers and learn about the brewing process. Craftwork Brewery’s hours can vary, so it’s advisable to check their current schedule before planning a visit.
Visiting these breweries provides insight into Oamaru’s local brewing culture and an opportunity to enjoy distinctive beers in welcoming environments.
Visit The Totara Estate
About 8km south of Oamaru lies Totara Estate, another pretty niche attraction that was a significant site in New Zealand’s agricultural history. Established in the 1850s, this farm became the birthplace of the country’s frozen meat industry.
In 1882, the first shipment of refrigerated meat was sent from Totara Estate to the United Kingdom aboard the Dunedin, marking the beginning of an export trade that would greatly influence New Zealand’s economy.
Today, Totara Estate is preserved as a heritage site where visitors can explore restored farm buildings, including the slaughterhouse and granary. Exhibits detail the challenges and innovations of 19th-century farming and meat processing.
It’s not an attraction that all visitors will enjoy, for anyone who likes to learn more about local history or has an interest in farming an agriculture might enjoy a visit.
I was the only visitor when I was there, although a few others were arriving as I was leaving. It’s another one of Oamaru’s quirky attractions, but you wouldn’t need to spend long there.
Visit Riverstone Castle
Up next, we have another unusual attraction.
Just north of Oamaru, Riverstone Castle stands as a distinctive landmark amidst the rural landscape. Constructed by Dot and Neil Smith, this castle is situated on their dairy farm and is part of the broader Riverstone complex, which includes the renowned Riverstone Kitchen and various boutique shops.
Built from local Oamaru stone, Riverstone Castle features classic architectural elements such as turrets and a moat, embodying Dot Smith’s vision of a traditional castle. The interior is adorned with furnishings and artifacts collected over years, reflecting a commitment to authenticity and detail.
While the castle is a private residence, guided tours are periodically offered, providing insights into its construction, design, and the inspirations behind it.
These tours typically last about an hour and offer a comprehensive look at both the interior and exterior spaces. It’s advisable to check the official Riverstone Castle Facebook page for the latest tour schedules and availability.
Coming from the UK with all it’s medieval castles, seeing a modern one is a little odd. Also the gift shop is massive but a little bit too kitsch for me, but it’s still an interesting place to see.
Oamaru Steam and Rail
If you are a railway and train enthusiast and happen to be in Oamaru on a Sunday, you can take a short ride on a vintage steam train. The organisation is run by volunteers, and they have a few different trains, running one of them each Sunday.
Departing from Harbourside Station, located in Oamaru’s Victorian precinct, the trains embark on a scenic 30-minute round trip. The route extends to Quarry Siding near the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, running alongside the picturesque Victorian harbour.
To ensure the most current information on departure times and ticketing, it’s advisable to check the Oamaru Steam and Rail Facebook page before planning your visit.
Unfortunately I’ve not been there on the right days to try this out myself, so it’s on my list for my next visit.
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
Ok, including this might be a bit of a stretch, as this obviously extends far beyond a visit to Oamaru, and it’s not going to be something that anyone other than keen cyclists are going to do. I’m not a cyclist myself, but I have been to some of the locations on the route and it would be a stunning ride.
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is New Zealand’s longest continuous cycle trail, stretching over 300 kilometers from Aoraki/Mount Cook to Oamaru. This trail offers cyclists a journey through alpine landscapes, glacial-fed lakes, and rolling farmlands.
On the off chance that it is something you might want to do, here are the basics.
Trail Overview:
- Length: Approximately 315 km.
- Sections: The trail is divided into eight sections, each showcasing distinct terrains and scenery.
- Terrain: A mix of off-road trails and on-road stretches, suitable for riders with moderate fitness levels.
Highlights Along the Trail:
- Aoraki/Mount Cook Start: The journey begins near New Zealand’s highest peak, offering panoramic alpine views.
- Lake Pukaki and Lake Ōhau: Riders pass by these stunning glacial lakes, with the trail skirting the southern shore of Lake Pukaki and leading to the picturesque Lake Ōhau Lodge.
- Waitaki Valley: The route traverses this fertile valley, known for vineyards and hydroelectric dams.
- Oamaru Finish: The trail concludes in Oamaru, which as you now know is full of other interesting things to do!
Completing the entire trail typically takes 4-6 days, though shorter sections can be undertaken for day trips. A range of lodging options are available along the route, from lodges to campgrounds. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring through autumn offers milder weather conditions.
How To Get To Oamaru
The best way to get to Oamaru and the surrounding area is by car. It is about 1 ½ hours from Dunedin, and 3 ½ hours from Christchurch.
I have visited before using the Intercity bus to get from Christchurch to Oamaru, which takes around 4 hours, but really a car is your best bet. If you do take the bus, then Oamaru is on the route between Dunedin and Christchurch so you can approach it from either city.
And not to put too fine a point on it, but if you start in Christchurch you can see more penguins at the International Antarctic Centre!
Final Thoughts: Best Things To Do In Oamaru
Oamaru might not have the fame of Queenstown or the drama of Fiordland, but it left more of a mark on me than I expected. There’s something delightfully offbeat about this place — like it knows it’s weird and is totally fine with it.
If you’re road-tripping the South Island, give yourself a day (or even just a long afternoon) here. You might come for the penguins, but you’ll stay for the steampunk, the stories, and the sheer strangeness of it all. And honestly? That’s what makes it unforgettable.
If you’re still piecing together your New Zealand adventure, you might also want to check out:
How Many Days Do You Need in New Zealand
Best Places to Visit in the South Island
10 Day South Island Itinerary
Planning a longer South Island trip? You can find more stops in my South Island Travel Guide.
And if you’re not quite convinced Oamaru — or New Zealand in general — is worth your time, these posts might help:
Is New Zealand Worth Visiting?
Unique Things to Try in New Zealand
