Nest Tree Houses
The Hakataramea Valley is a slice of rural South Canterbury heaven, with picture-perfect landscapes, incredible views and nature all around.
Hyde Boutique
Retail therapy doesn’t get any better in Ōamaru than Hyde Boutique, a high-end designer fashion destination situated on the town’s busy Thames Street.
Jessica Flora + In Good Company
Jessica Flora is a local Waitaki label that specialises in made-to-order clothing and celebrates Mother Earth. Find this brand and others at In Good Company.
Bruce's Barber
Located in the heart of the Thames Street shopping district in Ōamaru is the ultimate gentlemen’s grooming experience, Bruce’s Barber.
Buggyrobot Gallery
Buggyrobot Gallery is a quirky gallery and workshop found in the heart of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, and it’s a must-visit.
The Old Confectionery
In recent years, the town of Ōamaru has seen many historic buildings giving new life thanks to restorations to preserve the unique architecture that contributes so much...
Del Mar
Perfectly positioned by the sea, Del Mar Eatery and Beach Bar in Ōamaru takes full advantage of its waterside views.
Victoria Lounge and Eatery
Victoria Lounge and Eatery in the heart of Ōamaru is a welcome addition to the burgeoning hospitality scene in this small town brimming with charm and character.
The Criterion Hotel
First established in 1877, the Criterion Hotel Bar and Eatery is the jewel in the crown in the historic Victorian precinct in Ōamaru.
Bangkok Recipe
On the hunt for authentic and traditional Thai food in the heart of Ōamaru, then look no further than Bangkok Recipe.
The Vicarage
Enjoy a slice of Ōamaru's history alongside impeccable service and hospitality at The Vicarage.
Oásis Ōamaru
Oásis is a fitting name for this treasure trove of an antiques store found on Tees Street in Ōamaru.
Casa Nova House & Restaurant 1861
Casa Nova House is a perfect example of Ōamaru’s historic architecture turning a new page in its storied history.
Soul, Surf and Skate
Ōamaru’s one-and-only surf and skate shop, Soul Surf & Skate, is located in the heart of the town’s retail district on Thames Street.
Housekeepers Design
A beautiful old building full of beautiful new objects. We’re talking New Zealand-made clothing, accessories and homewares that’ll delight even the most discerning of buyers. Do your gift shopping or treat yourself.
Cucina
Argentinian, Italian and Spanish flavours meet Kiwi hospitality at Cucina. Owners Yanina and Pablo, moved their family to Ōamaru in 2008, and celebrate the cuisine they grew up with through Waitaki's best ingredients.
William Bee
A general store since the 1800s, this cosy Ōamaru corner shop is now home to hip baby wear, cool gifts and New Zealand outerwear brand, Moké. Lush fabrics and excellent craftsmanship tie the whole concept together.
Whitestone Cheese Co.
Whitestone Cheese opened its doors in 1987 in an old Ōamaru mechanic shop with one part-time cheesemaker. All these years on and the business produces 25 different kinds of cheese with a team of 75 strong.
Valley Views Glamping
Glamping with sweeping views of the Waitaki Valley, and hosts who know its every nook and cranny including the best summer swimming holes. Honeymoon, stay-cation, reunion, whatever the occasion, it’ll be best had here.
Steampunk HQ
This epicentre of Steampunk culture comes alive at the Steampunk HQ, where interactive art comes to life in a way that’s fun, antique and futuristic all at once.
Tees St
Cucina’s day time counterpart with colourful, tasty brunch plates. The huevos rancheros have been winning ‘big brekkie’ traditionalists over since 2016 and the bombolino doughnuts are the mid-day treat you deserve.
The Terraces
Local Kevin Murdoch restored The Terraces building and filled it with historical relics and an art studio. Pop in for a chat with Kevin and the other Ōamaru artist in residence, Al Bell - this is something of an alternative visitors’ centre.
The FishWife
Owned by a fourth-generation Moeraki fisherman, this dockside restaurant is the real deal. Snag a crayfish with chips for a meal that’s simple but supremely delicious, or go for the pāua patty which will have you renouncing beef burgers altogether. Whatever you go for, it’s all caught right here.
Inc. Design
Not just a shop, gallery or studio but some combination of all three, Ōamaru’s Inc. Design is an experience in and of itself.
Poshtel
Poshtel has to be one of the most unique accommodation options around New Zealand. In keeping with one of Ōamaru's most notable personality traits, Steampunk, it’s filled with antiques and relics.
River-T Estate Wines
River-T Estate vineyard and tasting room has the ‘largest selection of Waitaki wine in the world’. Sit inside or amongst the rows, sip a glass and get stuck into any of their locally sourced platters.
Hot Tubs Omarama
Weary travellers mustn't miss Hot Tubs Omarama place, where you can soak in a cedar tub in the stunning North Otago landscape. Tubs fit up to eight people and are filled with fresh mountain water for each booking.
Harbour Street Bakery
Visit Harbour Street Bakery in Ōamaru for a delicious range of bread, buns, pies, cookies and other goodies. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a treat.
The Fort Enfield
A classic Kiwi pub reimagined — Speights and craft pours plus simple and delicious kai — pub fare as it should be. Drive or bike the 12km from Ōamaru and reward yourself with the best steak and chips around.
Grainstore Gallery
Not quite a gallery or a studio, Grainstore Gallery is an emporium of local artist Donna Demente’s larger than life paintings and sculptures and the ephemera that informs them. Climb up the stairs and be immersed in her creative world.
Craftwork Brewery
Ōamaru’s Heritage Precinct is an ode to tradition. In this way it only makes sense that it’s home to Craftwork - an award winning, small scale, Belgian brewery run by brewing couple, Lee-Ann Scotti and Michael O’Brien.
Elephant Rocks
For a nice walk, a bit of bouldering or both, head to Elephant Rocks. Sculpted by wind and rain, these funky outcrops give visitors a glimpse of the limestone that make the Waitaki Valley’s terroir so unique.
Hub and Sprocket Cycles
Possibly our most bikeable region, the Waitaki is home to plenty of rugged scenery and flat to not-so-flat cycleways. Get your gear sorted and check out the tours that range from day trips to the full A2O at Hub and Sprocket Cycles.
Crafted
It’s hard not to be inspired by Ōamaru’s rugged coastline and fabled history. The town is home to many talented makers and artists, and at the collective gallery you can explore their work at your own pace.
Badger & Mackerel
Badger & Mackerel Messhall is an Ōamaru hub for great food, excellent service and a refreshing mix of big brekkie classics and modern brunch plates.
Blue Penguin Colony
Ōamaru is home to one of the most up close and personal wildlife encounters we’ve found here in Aotearoa. Plan to visit the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony one evening during your stay, and you’ll soon see what we mean.
Riverstone Kitchen
Riverstone Kitchen has been working with Waitaki producers and growing their own ingredients since day one. Their simple, seasonal approach has earned a huge following and heaps of awards, so wander the veggie gardens, enjoy a meal and stay awhile.