Oamaru
- Omarama
113 km (71 miles)
Approximately 1.5 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway
The town of Oamaru has a population of around 12,000 and an impressive heritage. Many of the elegant historic buildings were made from the local sandstone. Visit the Harbour-Tyne area - the best-preserved collection of historic commercial buildings in New Zealand. You should also check out the penguin colony, the museum and the pretty public gardens.
The conversation on this drive will be full of references to the fabulous scenery. Travelling up the Waitaki Valley, you’ll have the Waitaki River and several beautiful lakes to admire. Interesting towns such as Duntroon, Kurow and Otematata give you the excuse to stop and explore – maybe even take a jet boat ride. The huge Benmore Dam is worth a look.
You’ll know you’re in Omarama when you see the giant merino sheep statue. This area’s unique geography has made it a magnet for gliding enthusiasts. The northwesterly wind blows steadily to form the famous Northwest Arch, a thermal that can take the glider pilots to 10,000 metres. Scenic soaring can be arranged.
Scenic Highlights
South Hill and Skyline Walks
Work up an appetite with one of Oamaru's scenic walks. Choose the challenging Skyline Walk or the relatively easy South Hill Walkway.
Totara Estate
Explore four carefully restored stone farm buildings and find out about farming life in the 1800s.
Spying on the Little Blue Penguins
The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony offers a unique opportunity to observe the world's smallest penguin.
Harbour & Tyne Historic Precinct
Steam train rides and a lively market make Sundays fun in Oamaru's Harbour & Tyne Historic Precinct.
Moeraki Boulders
You simply can't drive along the North Otago coast without stopping to stare at the Moeraki Boulders - they're amazing!
Oamaru Public Gardens
A botanical wonderland from Victorian days, the Oamaru Public Gardens are a beautiful place to stroll and dream.
Activities
Christchurch - Canterbury
Climbing (2),
Glider Planes (1),
Walking/Trekking (17)
Dunedin - Coastal Otago
Bird Watching (5)
Tour and Sightseeing
Christchurch - Canterbury
Walking/Trekking (16)
Tour and Sightseeing
Dunedin - Coastal Otago
Bird Watching (2)
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