Shipping virtually shut down here in 1974, but the Oamaru Harbour, a registered historic place, is still a bustling spot to visit in Otago. Enjoy fishing, boating and blue penguin viewing, among other interesting activities for all ages.
Walk along the historic south side of the port, where the old stone seawall runs from the Esplanade to Sumpter Wharf. At one time, this curving wharf, with its white-painted handrails, welcomed ocean freighters that sailed between New Zealand and Britain. From here New Zealand launched its first exports of frozen meat, a booming industry in the region for decades. Look toward the jetties for the mast from the Robert and Betsy, wrecked in 1862, one of several notorious shipwrecks of Oamaru.
As you approach the breakwater, look for the bordering Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Here you’ll have the opportunity to see the little blue penguins in their natural habitat and peek at their nests. Come in the early evening to watch the penguins arriving from the sea after a day of fishing.
Several Oamaru area attractions are a short drive from the harbor, including Friendly Bay, with its unique children’s playground. Swings hang from a massive penny-farthing bicycle. Watch kids having fun while getting exercise on a giant hamster wheel.
Head to nearby Koekohe Beach to climb on the Moeraki Boulders, one of the South Island’s top attractions. The boulders began forming in the ancient sea floor approximately 60 million years ago and took about 4 million years to reach their current megalithic size.
More climbing fun awaits at Elephant Rocks, huge rock outcroppings made of fossil-rich limestone. Decide for yourself whether the rocks look like elephants and take photographs to support your viewpoint. Parts of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe movie were filmed here because of its otherworldly appeal.
Find Oamaru Harbour in Oamaru, 3 hours south of Christchurch and 1.5 hours north of Dunedin by car.
