Oamaru Vacations

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Your Oamaru Vacation

Cuisine, art, entertainment and more … There's so much to discover with a Oamaru vacation package. And with the ability to easily customize your city adventure, it's guaranteed to be one that's hard to forget. Oamaru Harbour, Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony and Whitestone Cheese Factory are just a few of the many sights you'll want to explore during your trip to Oamaru. Whatever your travel plans or the size of your budget, putting together a tailored Oamaru vacation is a breeze with Expedia.

Where to stay in Oamaru

Find the best Oamaru areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Oamaru
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Oamaru North

While Oamaru North isn't home to many top sights, Whitestone Cheese Factory and Oamaru Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.

Find hotels in Oamaru North

Discover the most popular places to visit in Oamaru

In Oamaru there's a little blue penguin colony where you can pay to see a show and learn about the penguins and watch them come in for the night. Penguins in New Zealand are only around at dusk when they swim in from a day at sea for the night.

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Explore the great outdoors at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, a lovely green space in Oamaru. Amble around the area's marina or experience its museums.

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Oamaru which includes outdoor art

Steampunk HQ

Try out interactive displays, marvel at intricate creations, get lost in a light show or just have some bizarre fun at this art gallery with a difference.

Steampunk HQ
Oamaru showing a bay or harbor, boating and rugged coastline

Oamaru Harbour

Explore New Zealand’s deep-sea port from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. It’s a great jumping-off point for Otago’s many natural attractions.

Oamaru Harbour

What to do in Oamaru

Oamaru: Blue Penguin Colony Evening Viewing Ticket

Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket

$26
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket
See all activities in Oamaru

Oamaru Hotel Deals

289 Midway Motel

289 Midway Motel

3 out of 5
289 Thames Street, Oamaru
$80 nightly
The price is $92 total per night from Nov 11 to Nov 12
$92 total
Nov 11 - Nov 12
Total with taxes and fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (302 reviews)
Clean, tidy and close to all amenities.

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2025

289 Midway Motel
Poshtel

Poshtel

5 out of 5
126 Thames Street, Oamaru, Otago
$112 nightly
The price is $129 total per night from Nov 30 to Dec 1
$129 total
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Total with taxes and fees
9.6/10 Exceptional! (331 reviews)
Fabulous as always

Reviewed on Oct 30, 2025

Poshtel
The Mews Oamaru

The Mews Oamaru

4.5 out of 5
26 Exe Street, Oamaru
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$104 nightly
The price is $120 total per night from Nov 7 to Nov 8
$120 total
Nov 7 - Nov 8
Total with taxes and fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (350 reviews)
Easy check in, spacious room and clean. Only downside was no milk in the fridge. Fair but kept it from a 5 star

Reviewed on Oct 29, 2025

The Mews Oamaru
See all 81 properties in Oamaru
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find the Best Oamaru Vacation Packages

Things to do in and around Oamaru

Oamaru, located in Otago, New Zealand, offers a charming blend of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping areas, enjoy body treatments, and engage in various holiday events. For adventure seekers, traditional camping experiences and exciting day trips provide memorable opportunities to connect with nature and the local culture. Oamaru is the perfect destination for a relaxing yet adventurous vacation.

Shopping

The Whitestone Cheese Factory offers a delightful shopping experience with locally crafted cheeses and gourmet products. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby town of Timaru for additional shopping options, including larger malls and unique boutiques to explore.

Recreation

Experience the Lower Waitaki Golf Course, located 9 miles from Oamaru, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. The course offers a relaxing outdoor vibe, perfect for unwinding while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Adventure

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure, stretching from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. This scenic route takes you through stunning landscapes, including lakes and mountains, providing an unforgettable biking experience in the heart of Oamaru.

Nightlife

Oamaru's nightlife offers a cozy atmosphere with charming pubs like the Oamaru Club, where you can enjoy local brews and live music. For a unique experience, visit the Penguin Club, known for its lively vibe and fun events, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru, located in Otago, New Zealand, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Its charming attractions include beautiful gardens, a picturesque harbor, and engaging galleries, making it perfect for culture and family experiences. Visitors can explore the lovely Oamaru Public Gardens and enjoy the local scenery while immersing themselves in the town's unique character.

  • Steampunk HQ: Immerse yourself in a whimsical world where Victorian aesthetics meet futuristic inventions. This unique exhibit showcases elaborate steampunk art and machinery, offering a fascinating glimpse into a retro-futuristic universe that sparks creativity and imagination.
  • Oamaru Harbour: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views at Oamaru Harbour, a picturesque spot perfect for leisurely strolls. With its sandy beaches and stunning scenery, it’s an ideal place for photography, picnics, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the ocean.
  • Oamaru Gardens: Discover a beautiful urban park that invites families to unwind in its lush greenery. With playgrounds, walking paths, and vibrant flower beds, Oamaru Gardens is a delightful escape in the heart of the city, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Best time to go to Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June46.0°F (7.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August45.9°F (7.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September47.5°F (8.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Oamaru

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Oamaru.
  • Consider traveling to Oamaru during the low season (May to June and August) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Oamaru Beach Vacation

Forget the stresses of everyday life and let yourself completely relax during your Oamaru vacation. Few things are more invigorating than the salty sea air and the soothing melody of waves breaking onto the shore. Organize your trip to Oamaru the quick and easy way by locking in one of our Oamaru vacation packages. Many visitors decide to spend their nights close to Bushy Beach, a local highlight just 3 miles (5 km) from the downtown area.

Things You Should Know About Oamaru

  • Book one of our Oamaru beach hotels to appreciate the very best this destination has to offer. Wander along the shore and be amazed by the stunning sunrises just steps from your doorstep.
  • No matter your style and budget, you'll find a nice place to stay for your vacation in Oamaru. Why not check out some private vacation homes, like Harold House and Oamaru Holiday Homes Largo House? They're a hit with travelers of all sorts.
  • There are tons of activities that keep the 13,000 or so residents of Oamaru busy. A quick look at our Oamaru things to do page will show you the best of what's on offer.
  • Score great deals with an Oamaru vacation package. With the money you save, you won't regret indulging in this destination's best offerings. Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, Steampunk HQ and Oamaru Gardens are amazing places to start.

Oamaru Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
New Zealand dollars
Population
13,000
Max Temp Winter
50ºF
Max Temp Summer
60ºF
Top Sights
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, North Otago Museum and NZ Malt Whisky Company

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Frequently asked questions

How much does an Oamaru vacation package cost?
You can pick up a vacation package to this destination on Expedia. However, how much your vacation to Oamaru costs will depend on factors like the length of stay, season and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Oamaru?
February, November and December are the best times to search for cheap Oamaru vacation packages. Traveling in quieter periods means you can usually find better prices on hotels and flights.
How many days is enough for Oamaru?
With about 2 days, you'll have enough time to enjoy popular neighborhoods like Oamaru North and Holmes Hill during your Oamaru vacation. Remember to also add Penguine Colony and Auto Museum to your sightseeing list. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Oamaru on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Oamaru?
Oamaru has everything you need for a fantastic trip — culture, nature and history are just the start. Whether you want to visit attractions like Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony and Oamaru Harbour, or take the path less traveled, you'll have plenty to do on your Oamaru vacation.
How to find the best Oamaru package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some great Oamaru package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your escape for midweek, or search for Oamaru package deals in the off-peak season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to lock in your vacation package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book an Oamaru vacation as a package?
Expedia vacation packages are designed to make your money go further. Bundle your hotel, car rental and flight into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll typically score a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still have the freedom to create a personalized Oamaru vacation by choosing your favorite accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a vacation package to Oamaru?
Enjoy incredible discounts by booking your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your style, snap up one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Oamaru escape.
How to plan a trip to Oamaru?

  1. Choose when to travel: Check your calendar and get packing. Your favorite season and the activities on offer will also help you decide when to escape to Oamaru.
  2. Set a budget: Consider expenses such as flights, transportation and food when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Oamaru. Then, select a hotel that suits your budget, whether that's an affordable stay or a swankier getaway.
  3. Organize your Oamaru getaway with our trip planning tool: Search for and book stays and experiences all in one place. You can also collaborate with your group to plan an unforgettable trip to Oamaru together.
  4. Decide how long to go for: Now that you're more familiar with Oamaru, you can work out the perfect length of your break. Pull together a rough plan and allocate enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
  5. Bundle your hotel and flights: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to choose an Oamaru vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
  6. Book activities and experiences ahead of time: Whether it's entrance to a major attraction or a day trip in nature, you won't have to worry about missing out on Oamaru's best offerings. Find all the exciting things to do in Oamaru with our dedicated travel guide.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Oamaru vacation packages?
Your Oamaru getaway is meant to be an escape from your daily routine, not a reason for money worries. So to give you a bit more flexibility, we've joined up with online lender Affirm to offer you our Book Now, Pay Later vacations. Pick one of our vacation packages with payment plans and split up the total cost over 3, 6 or 12 months. Plus, there are no hidden costs or late payment fees to worry about.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.