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
Oamaru showing outdoor art

Historic Precinct

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While visiting Historic Precinct, you might make a stop by sights like Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct and Steampunk HQ.

Find hotels in Historic Precinct

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

4/5(12 reviews)

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 showing a bay or harbor, boating and rugged coastline

Oamaru Harbour

4.5/5(7 reviews)

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
Oamaru which includes outdoor art

Steampunk HQ

4/5(8 reviews)

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

What to do in Oamaru

Oamaru: Blue Penguin Colony Evening Viewing Ticket

Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket

$27
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket
See all activities in Oamaru

Oamaru Hotel Deals

Brydone Hotel Oamaru

Brydone Hotel Oamaru

3.5 out of 5
115 Thames Street Oamaru
$78 nightly
The price is $92 total per night from Jan 30 to Jan 31
$92 total
Jan 30 - Jan 31
Total with taxes and fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (578 reviews)
Excellent service, helpful, knowledgable staff.

Reviewed on Jan 14, 2026

Brydone Hotel Oamaru
Oamaru Motor Lodge

Oamaru Motor Lodge

4 out of 5
391 Thames Highway Oamaru
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$106 nightly
The price is $123 total per night from Jan 27 to Jan 28
$123 total
Jan 27 - Jan 28
Total with taxes and fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (705 reviews)
The room was spotless and very comfortable. Check in was quick and easy. Despite being on SH1 there was no noise in the evening and we slept well.

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2026

Oamaru Motor Lodge
Criterion Boutique Hotel

Criterion Boutique Hotel

2 out of 5
3 Tyne St Oamaru Otago Region
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$54 nightly
The price is $62 total per night from Jan 21 to Jan 22
$62 total
Jan 21 - Jan 22
Total with taxes and fees
6.6/10 (15 reviews)
Very small room for two people. Shared bathrooms ok. Very quirky and historical. A nice adventure

Reviewed on Dec 30, 2025

Criterion Boutique Hotel
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 is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, offering a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy a charming shopping area, explore a recreation park, and indulge in body treatments. Don't miss the traditional Oamaru camping experience, which provides a unique way to connect with nature. Additionally, Oamaru hosts various holiday events and day trips, making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

In Oamaru, visit the Whitestone Cheese Factory for unique local cheeses and gourmet gifts. If you're up for a drive, check out the larger shopping options at nearby malls like the bigger centers in Dunedin, where you'll find a variety of retailers and specialty shops.

Recreation

The Lower Waitaki Golf Course, located 9 miles from Oamaru, offers a relaxing outdoor experience surrounded by scenic landscapes. Enjoy a round of golf while soaking in the fresh air and stunning views, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

Adventure

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail offers an exhilarating ride through stunning landscapes, connecting the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. Experience diverse terrains, from rolling hills to picturesque lakes, while soaking in the breathtaking views of Oamaru's natural beauty along the way.

Nightlife

Oamaru boasts a charming nightlife with a mix of pubs and live music. Grab a drink at the Oamaru Opera House for a unique experience, or visit the Criterion Hotel for local brews and friendly vibes. Enjoy live performances at various venues showcasing local talent throughout the week.

*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 perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like the harbor, galleries, and the beautiful Oamaru Public Gardens. This charming town caters to families and travelers seeking a mix of culture and relaxation. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque gardens and enjoy the local art scene during your stay.

  • Steampunk HQ: Dive into a whimsical world at Steampunk HQ, where art and technology collide in a fantastical exhibit. This immersive experience showcases imaginative steampunk creations, interactive displays, and vintage machinery, all set within the unique cultural vibe of Oamaru.
  • Oamaru Harbour: Relax at Oamaru Harbour, a picturesque spot perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy stunning coastal scenery, stroll along the waterfront, and observe the local wildlife, including playful seals and penguins, making it an ideal location for photography and leisure.
  • Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct: Step back in time in the Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct, a beautifully preserved neighborhood showcasing stunning 19th-century architecture. Experience the charm of the era through quaint shops, galleries, and cafes, all set against a vibrant city atmosphere.

Best time to go to Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Oamaru falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Oamaru falls in July, 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

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

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