A Boutique Weekend Escape to Ōamaru

Setting itself apart from everyday hotels, Poshtel offers 16 boutique rooms that complement Ōamaru’s quaint and quirky aesthetic. From The Polo Room and Fishing Suite to The Antarctica Explorer Suite and Bowling Room, each suite boasts a unique identity, inviting guests to select the space that best suits their personality. A light continental breakfast is included in each stay, allowing you to start your day at a relaxed pace.

Nothing beats the warm hospitality of a bed and breakfast – and The Vicarage ups the experience with plenty of luxury touches. Built in 1901, the building is a beautiful example of classic Victorian architecture with ornate detailing, tall windows and a lush garden setting. The three guest suites are thoughtfully designed with grand yet homely features, but the experience extends beyond the bedroom. Enjoy afternoon tea, an endless supply of hot beverages and chocolate fish, a welcome drink on arrival and a full continental breakfast to wake up to each morning. You definitely won’t want to leave The Vicarage in a hurry.

Ōamaru’s history is preserved in places like The Old Confectionery, a heritage site that was lovingly restored and transformed into luxury accommodation by Katrina and David Menzies. Opened in 2020, original details can still be spotted throughout the space – sash windows, stone columns, and intricate designs – complemented by elegant, fun and bold decor (the statement wallpaper is a joy to behold). There are two beautiful two-bedroom apartments to choose from: the downstairs Heritage Apartment and the Seaview Apartment. Each bedroom has its own premium ensuite and there are stylish and comfortable living and dining spaces to relax in. Hot tip: book directly for complimentary Whitestone cheese and crackers on arrival.

In an old stone dwelling dating back to over 160 years ago, you’ll find Casa Nova House; a bed-and-breakfast oasis. The site has been extensively renovated by owners and hosts Brenda and Katrina, with a commitment to holding onto the charm of yesteryear while introducing luxurious comforts of the 21st Century. The three guest rooms upstairs are serene and stylish, where vibrant wallpaper resides next to original stone remnants. Make sure to wander Casa Nova’s vast English countryside-style gardens outside and enjoy Spanish-inspired tapas at the onsite restaurant – a favourite among both locals and travellers.

This concept store is a reason alone to visit Ōamaru. A bold claim, yes, but one we wholeheartedly stand by. From the moment you step foot inside, you know you’re in for a special experience, with several rooms showcasing a selection of unique, clever and beautiful objects, many of which have been handcrafted by New Zealand makers. Explore ceramics, hand-blown glass objects, jewellery, bags, clothing and so much more, including artistic creations from Inc’s owner, Helen. Prepare to ooh and ahh at Inc. Design.

What’s a boutique weekend without trying a few things on in a changing room? Hyde Boutique offers the greatest fashion experience in Ōamaru, with a selection of high-end designer pieces from both New Zealand and international brands. The space is refined and minimalistic, giving room for the clothes, shoes, and accessories to shine. From the latest range of Deadly Ponies luxury bags to timeless Kowtow designs and La Tribe footwear, good luck leaving without something new for your wardrobe.

On the way into Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, William Bee Merchants is impossible to miss. Sitting on the corner of Itchen Street in a stunning heritage building, this place is all about keeping the kids looking cute and cool – with a few bonus bits and pieces for the adults. The huge range of baby and kids’ clothing is not only fun but there’s a big focus on natural and organic fibres – with plenty of appearances from Nature Baby and Jamie Kay. The addition of books, toys, felted homeware, natural bath products and more makes this a great stopover for anyone doting on a special kiddo.

Whether you’re redecorating the home, refreshing your wardrobe or gift shopping, it’s easy to get lost in the endless array of eclectic products at Housekeepers Design. Located in the old grain store, the industrial space is large – but this store has no problem filling every inch with fashion and accessories, self-care products, bedding, indoor plants, furniture… Whatever you’re looking for, it’s likely hiding somewhere in this boutique jungle.

A new addition to Ōamaru’s shopping scene, The Vault opened in August 2024 with a world of products designed to make everyday moments feel that extra bit special. Owner Monique Lewis makes a point of celebrating and supporting small businesses in the region, so expect to uncover beautiful things made in Waitaki and Otago, alongside a curated range from Kip & Co, Baggu, Brie Leon and other beloved brands. Oh, and how could we forget? The Vault also doubles as MK Beauty, so you can follow up your retail therapy with a blissful beauty treatment right next door.

Forrester Gallery offers an inspiring mix of exhibitions in one of Waitaki’s most historic sites – and it’s free to visit. Originally built in 1884 as the Bank of New South Wales, this stunning neoclassical building has been repurposed into five unique exhibition spaces with a rich programme that celebrates new and emerging artists in the region. Excitingly, a planned 2025 expansion will double the gallery’s size, adding new spaces, improved accessibility, and storage to protect its growing collection.

Andrew Killick has devoted much of his life to the art of pottery, playing with clay from a young age and continuing on to establish his own brand and studio space in Waihi. In 2022, however, Andrew made the move down south to Ōamaru and set up Silenzio Pottery on Thames Street. The space operates as a store and studio, showcasing a large collection of handcrafted pieces made exclusively from New Zealand stoneware and handmade glazes inspired by the local landscape. Visitors can also take part in fun, relaxed and affordable workshops, where they get to create their own clay treasures.

If you need more evidence that Ōamaru is home to infinite talent, head to Crafted, a welcoming gallery space that displays the work of about 15 different local artists. Situated in one of the Victorian Precinct’s preserved stone buildings, visitors can marvel at diverse artforms, from weaving and woodturning to painting and textiles, that come together to tell the story of the region. Members of the collective take turns running the store and are always willing to share more about the works.

Home to a kaleidoscope of colourful art, homeware and gifts, Art on Thames brings joy and inspiration to all who visit. As an artist herself, owner Philina draws on her relationships within the creative community to curate a unique selection of works made by artists down the road and all over New Zealand – many of which you may not have come across before. After browsing the joyful range, make sure you meet local artist Matthew Wicks (aka Wicksey) in his studio and gallery space next door.

Located in Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, Martin Horspool’s unique metal art and watercolour works at BuggyRobot Gallery should be on every itinerary. Originally from Wales, Martin has spent 15 years creating one-of-a-kind pieces, breathing new life into discarded objects to reimagine them as quirky robot characters that will leave you smiling. Inside the gallery and studio, you’ll meet Martin, enthusiastically working at his desk and eager to share the story behind each creation.

We’d never leave you in the lurch when it comes to finding a good coffee spot. Tees St, the beloved little sister of Cucina next door, is your go-to for cool and casual daytime dining. The baristas sure know how to make a great brew here, with specialty teas, house-made kombucha, cold-pressed juices and even wine and beer available should the moment call for it. The cabinet is elite, with everything made from scratch, including their famous bomboloni doughnuts filled with sweet concoctions.

Whitestone Cheese is legendary in New Zealand and worldwide for its award-winning range of seriously good cheese (fun fact: it’s even been served at the Oscars). In 2023, they opened a retro deli and diner, with a baby pink and blue aesthetic as scrumptious as the menu. The all-day menu celebrates cheese in every form, from grilled halloumi with poached eggs and classic cheese scones to daily toastie specials, mac n cheese, and ‘high cheese’ showstoppers to share between a few friends (best enjoyed with a glass of local wine).

Known by foodies near and far, Cucina has been delighting taste buds with the flavours of the Mediterranean and South America since opening their doors in 2016. Originally from Argentina, owners Yanina and Pablo have created an environment that you’ll want to return to every time you’re in Ōamaru – it’s warm and inviting with a lush jungle of plants adding a fresh and vibrant energy to the place. The menu changes in accordance with the seasons, but you can expect plates of fresh pasta (made in-house of course), refined mains that celebrate local produce, and delicious starters and sides to fill the table. ‘Trust the Chef’ is a great opportunity to try a bit of everything with wine pairings available.

A 20-minute drive north of Ōamaru, Riverstone Kitchen has been living the garden-to-table lifestyle, well before it was trendy. For almost two decades, Bevan Smith and his team have crafted beautiful and honest food using vegetables from their expansive onsite gardens and local meat butchered in-house. While they have a big reputation, the vibe is welcoming and family-friendly with outdoor seating and an adventurous playground for kids. The counter of cakes deserves as much attention as the menu, with each treat made from scratch by the team of bakers. When you’ve licked your plate clean, take time to wander through the gardens, browse Bevan’s cookbooks, and shop a range of delicious Riverstone preserves.