Discover the neatest places to eat, drink, shop and more in Ōamaru Waitaki.
The Waitaki region has it all - the ocean, mountains, bike paths, walking tracks, great food, and award-winning wine.
With so much to do, see, and try it’s crucial to plan ahead and make the most of your time in the Waitaki region. While you won't be able to fit every local gem into just 24 hours, we reckon some time is better than none, and this guide will take you through the best bits.
You’ll jump into the region in Ōamaru where you’ll find plenty of history, folklore, Victorian Architecture, and local food and drink. From there, you’ll head south to Moeraki for a restful afternoon and then through to Duntroon to explore Waitaki's geologic landscape.
You’ll end the day with some glamping, begin day two with a trip to Kurow for a wine tasting and a walk, and finally wrap up with a soak in an outdoor cedar tub at Hot Tubs Omarama.
Your Guide to Arts and Inspiring Places in Ōamaru
Read on for your guide to exploring areas of art and inspiration in Ōamaru - a kaleidoscope experience of remarkable places and celebrated burgeoning local creatives, where being different is absolutely encouraged.
The Unique Taste of Ōamaru: Food and Drink Heroes of the Waitaki Region
With a focus on sustainable and ethical production, Ōamaru's food and drink heroes are passionate about producing exceptional artisan products by harnessing the unique richness of their geographical location.
Cure Weekend Brunching with the Best Cafés in Ōamaru
If you catch yourself in Ōamaru in some form of the morning, here are the spots to hit up for your brunch needs.
Three Kids, Three Restaurants and a Whole Lot of Heart
Explore our Directory
View AllThe New Zealand Whisky Cellar Door
Located in the historic surroundings of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, The New Zealand Whisky Collection Cellar Door is an opportunity to experience a rare dram of...
Art on Thames
If happiness was a shop, it would look like this one. Founded by Philina Den Dulk, Art on Thames is a celebration of beautiful things designed and made in Aotearoa.
VALLI Wine Bar
When you think of Kurow, rugby culture and rustic hotel pubs may come to mind – but the little wine bar on the corner of Bledisloe Street is proof that more boutique...
Whitestone Cheese Deli & Diner
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.
Get your Pocket Guide for Ōamaru & Waitaki
Discover the neatest places to eat, drink, shop and more in Ōamaru Waitaki.
Forrester Gallery
One of the best places to get your art fix in the Waitaki region, the Forrester Gallery hosts a rich programme of exciting exhibitions in a historic Ōamaru landmark –...
Silenzio Pottery
Clay has been used as a medium to craft pottery since prehistoric times, yet its novelty hasn’t worn off – arguably, the allure of a handcrafted ceramic holds...
Luzette Art
Located within Ōamaru’s historical Victorian Precinct, you’ll find a studio space brimming with creativity, colour and cheer.
Feliz & Sage Cafe & Gifts
A daily destination for locals and an inviting stopover for cyclists, Feliz & Sage is a cafe and gift shop adding plenty of life to Kurow’s Bledisloe Street.
Whistle & Pop
When Bex Hayman gifted her husband a sterling silver dog whistle in lieu of a traditional wedding ring, little did she know that this thoughtful token would be the catalyst...
The Vault
The Oamaru Vault launched in August 2024 with a world of products designed to make everyday moments feel that extra bit special, from beauty and homeware to fashion, accessories and cute things for kids.
Wicksey Studio & Gallery
If you’ve explored Ōamaru and the wider Waitaki region, you’ve probably already been stopped in your tracks by the work of Matthew Wicks (aka Wicksey), long...
Nest Tree Houses
The Hakataramea Valley is a slice of rural South Canterbury heaven, with picture-perfect landscapes, incredible views and nature all around.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
