Oamaru Holidays

Things to do in and around Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, scenic views, and romantic experiences perfect for a getaway. Visitors can enjoy shopping, indulge in body treatments, and explore various exhibits. For a fulfilling experience, consider addressing your recreational needs through local tourism services, including guided tours provided by Tourism Waitaki, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this charming town.

Shopping

The Whitestone Cheese Factory offers a delightful selection of local cheeses and gourmet products, perfect for gifts. If you're up for a drive, you can also explore the nearby shopping experiences at larger malls in Timaru, around 90 minutes away, which feature a variety of shops and boutiques.

Recreation

The Lower Waitaki Golf Course, located 14.5km from Oamaru, offers a serene setting for golf enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it provides an invigorating outdoor experience that promotes relaxation and well-being, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.

Adventure

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail offers an exhilarating outdoor experience, weaving through stunning landscapes from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views, diverse terrain, and the thrill of cycling amidst nature, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers in Oamaru.

Nightlife

In Oamaru, the Criterion Hotel is a lively spot, perfect for enjoying a pint and mingling with locals. Alternatively, the Oamaru Opera House often hosts evening performances, blending culture with entertainment in a stunning setting.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming destination in Otago, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore cultural attractions like the Oamaru Opera House, local galleries, and the picturesque harbour. Don't miss the nearby Oamaru Gardens and the lookout point for stunning views. The city's unique Oamaru stone adds to its allure, making it an ideal spot for family-friendly experiences and a vibrant city atmosphere.

• Janet Frame House: Step into the world of renowned author Janet Frame at her childhood home. This historic house offers a glimpse into her life and works, surrounded by an atmosphere rich in literary culture and heritage.
• Totara Estate: Experience the charm of a traditional New Zealand farm at Totara Estate. Engage in adventurous activities while exploring the lush landscapes and learning about the region's agricultural history.
• Steampunk HQ: Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Steampunk at this unique exhibit. With its inventive displays and artistic creations, it celebrates a fusion of Victorian aesthetics and futuristic technology, providing a captivating cultural experience.

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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	46.0°F (7.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	45.9°F (7.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	47.5°F (8.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oamaru

To save on your trip to Oamaru, consider visiting between May to June or August when prices drop. Book your accommodation a month in advance for the best deals, focusing on Tuesdays for cheaper rates. Use Expedia to find last-minute offers and filter for budget options and eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in a package for additional savings. Don’t forget to check for exclusive offers and ensure a full refund policy for peace of mind.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oamaru are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Oamaru about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Oamaru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.