Things to do in Oamaru

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Updated 1 st June 2026

Discover Oamaru's Victorian Heritage, Penguins & Unique Attractions

Oamaru is one of New Zealand’s most unique heritage towns, combining Victorian architecture, wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and quirky attractions. Located on the Otago coast between Christchurch and Dunedin, Oamaru is famous for its Blue Penguin Colony, historic Victorian Precinct, steampunk culture, and beautiful beaches.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or exploring the Waitaki region, Oamaru offers a mix of history, wildlife, family-friendly attractions, and memorable South Island experiences.

Oamaru, New Zealand logo: a man on a vintage bicycle beside penguins in front of historic buildings, inside a shield-shaped crest with a blue banner reading OAMARU, NEW ZEALAND.

From Blue Penguins to Oamaru's Victorian Precinct

Blue Penguins, Yellow-Eyed Penguins & Coastal Wildlife

Oamaru is one of the best places in New Zealand to see penguins in their natural environment. The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony offers visitors the chance to watch the world’s smallest penguin species return ashore each evening after a day at sea.

For wildlife enthusiasts, nearby Bushy Beach provides opportunities to spot the much rarer yellow-eyed penguin, along with New Zealand fur seals and native birdlife. These unique wildlife encounters have helped make Oamaru one of New Zealand’s leading eco-tourism destinations.

Explore Oamaru’s Historic Whitestone City

Known as the “Whitestone City”, Oamaru is famous for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture built from local limestone. The town’s historic harbour precinct is one of the finest examples of Victorian streetscapes in New Zealand, with galleries, cafés, artisan workshops, museums, and boutique stores occupying many of the original heritage buildings.

A walk through the Victorian Precinct feels like stepping back in time and remains one of the most popular things to do in Oamaru.

Discover Steampunk, Art & the Waitaki Coast

Beyond its wildlife and heritage, Oamaru has developed a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most creative small towns. Steampunk HQ attracts visitors from around the world, while local galleries, theatres, and artisan workshops showcase the region’s thriving arts scene.

If you’re exploring beyond town, the famous Moeraki Boulders are located just 33 kilometres south of Oamaru. These giant spherical rocks scattered along Koekohe Beach are among New Zealand’s most photographed natural attractions and make an excellent side trip from Oamaru.

Visit the Famous Moeraki Boulders

Located around 35 kilometres south of Oamaru, the Moeraki Boulders are one of New Zealand’s most unusual natural attractions. These giant spherical rocks, some measuring several metres in circumference, are scattered along Koekohe Beach and have fascinated visitors for generations.

The boulders are particularly photogenic at sunrise and low tide, making them a popular stop for photographers and travellers exploring the Waitaki coast. A visit can easily be combined with a day exploring Oamaru and the surrounding region.