Things to do in Oamaru

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

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A large mechanical insect sculpture mounted on a wall.
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A beach with driftwood, a cliff, and the ocean.
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Oamaru Attractions

There's something quite magical about smaller cities. Whether you're heading off to Oamaru for a couple of days or you're thinking of staying for longer, it won't take you long to fall in love with this place. In fact, with so many wonderful things to do and impressive sights to take in, you mightn't want to go home!

If you're ready to discover the best of Oamaru, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an experienced guide show you the most popular attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {1 fun activities in Oamaru fun activities in Oamaru} are also worth checking out.

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Recommended things to do in Oamaru

Number of things to do
1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Behind the Studio Door Art and Travel Full Day Experience: $504
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Oamaru

Free Things to Do in Oamaru

Traveling on a limited budget in Oamaru? Spend time, not money, on great experiences.

North Otago Museum - Loaded with intriguing objects and exhibits, this gallery is heaven for hungry minds.

St Lukes Anglican Church - Whether you're spiritual or not, this site will invoke a sense of reverence.

Bushy Beach - Be on the lookout for exotic shells and other little treasures peppered along the coastline here.

Oamaru Gardens - If you're into digging around the garden, this attraction will fascinate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Oamaru with Kids

Oamaru has loads of nearby fun things to do for you and your kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew entertained for days.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Oamaru? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Oamaru attractions

A road with a green van, signs indicating 'PENGUINS CROSSING' and 'SLOW', and a speed limit sign of 30.
Photo by YoungAdventuress
Open Photo by YoungAdventuress

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

9.0/10 (194 reviews)
Watch the world's smallest penguins waddle home at dusk in this renowned conservation site. The guided evening viewings offer intimate wildlife encounters with these charming blue creatures returning from the sea.
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Where to stay in Oamaru

Find the best Oamaru areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Oamaru
Learn more about Oamaru
A historic building with a clock tower and a statue.

Oamaru North

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

A street with a red building, a sign for a gallery and studio, and a sign for natural limestone souvenirs.

Historic Precinct

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

A vintage blue car parked in front of a building with a sign that reads "Deja Moo."

South Hill

If you're spending some time in South Hill, Oamaru Harbour and Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct are top sights worth seeing.

Weston

While Weston might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Janet Frame House and Steampunk HQ.

Ardgowan

Ardgowan might not have many top sights, but Janet Frame House and Steampunk HQ are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Oamaru

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Awamoa

Frequently asked questions

Is Oamaru worth visiting?
Famous for its culture and nature, discovering cool things to do in Oamaru is simple. Remember to add North Otago Museum to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Oamaru?
North Otago Museum and Penguine Colony are two excellent places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Oamaru while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Oamaru?
Don't go home without exploring North Otago Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Oamaru.
Is three days enough to stay in Oamaru?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off popular city highlights, like North Otago Museum, NZ Malt Whisky Company and Penguine Colony. The average stay in Oamaru is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Glenavy isn't far away.
Is Oamaru a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in Oamaru. Several top sights, including North Otago Museum and NZ Malt Whisky Company, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Oamaru's best neighborhoods, Oamaru North is 2 miles away from downtown, while Holmes Hill is 1 mile away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Oamaru with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all ages, take a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Oamaru with kids.
What to do in Oamaru for adults?
NZ Malt Whisky Company and Whitestone Cheese Factory are just a couple of the things to do in Oamaru. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Oamaru?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Oamaru is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. North Otago Museum is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.