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Creative Spaces Around New Zealand to Inspire Your Next Mindful Hobby
Story Central Otago
In a world increasingly dominated by screen time, many New Zealanders are seeking out something more tangible. Pottery classes are filling up months in advance, knitting needles are clicking back into fashion, and creative workshops are becoming social occasions in their own right.

A Boutique Weekend Escape to Ōamaru

Street view of Ōamaru.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki
Some holidays call for a tent and hiking shoes, and others something a little more cushy – with the promise of a dreamy mattress to plonk onto at the end of the day. With so much romance and history filling every pocket of town, Ōamaru is the perfect destination for those seeking the latter. Think luxurious accommodation set in charming heritage buildings, enough one-of-a-kind homeware stores to fill a whole day’s itinerary, vibrant art studios and gallery spaces, and a culinary scene that big cities only dream of having. Have we got your attention? From the best places to stay to shopping, eating and cultural experiences, here’s our Neat Places guide to a boutique weekend escape to Ōamaru. Lean into the town’s Victorian heritage and give yourself permission to live like a royal.

Barrel to Bottle: Where to Find Beer, Wine & Whisky in Ōamaru & Waitaki

Wine glass paddle at River-T Estate Wines with a view of the vines.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

Scottish heritage, limestone-rich soils, industrious people… Ōamaru and the wider Waitaki region was destined to fill glasses, beer mugs and tumblers with some first-class tipples. When it comes to sipping something extra nice, there are several adventures available, depending on your mood and preferred drink of choice. Wander down the Victorian Precinct for Belgian beers or drams of whisky served in authentic, old-world settings, relax by the harbour for a classic pint and pizza combo, or follow the winding road to Kurow for boutique wine experiences. Ready to wet your whistle? Here are 6 of the best destinations serving up locally made beer, wine and whisky in the wonderful Waitaki region.

Your Guide to Arts and Inspiring Places in Ōamaru

An old Oamaru stone building on a cloudy day.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

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

Bevan Smith from Riverstone Kitchen wearing a blue t-shirt and apron smiling to camera in amongst green trees.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

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.

Fill Your Cup At 8 Of The Best Wellness Retreats In New Zealand

Cabin with stunning view of lake at Aro Hā, Glenorchy.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki
Banish busyness in favour of an escape that will nourish your mind, body and soul.

Cure Weekend Brunching with the Best Cafés in Ōamaru

Birdseye view of brunch from Tees Street.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

If you catch yourself in Ōamaru in some form of the morning, here are the spots to hit up for your brunch needs.

48 Hours Ōamaru & Waitaki

The heritage precinct in Oamaru.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

Your guide to the best things to do in Ōamaru & Waitaki

12 Hours Ōamaru

Owners of Craftwork standing outside the building with a pint in hand.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki

Your guide to the best things to see, eat, & do

Three Kids, Three Restaurants and a Whole Lot of Heart

Yanina and Pablo Tacchini in their restaurant.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki
While they’re originally from Argentina, Yanina and Pablo Tacchini are some of Oamaru’s biggest fans and most genuine ambassadors.

Slow but Spontaneous: Exponential Brewing

Lee-Ann Scotti and Michael O’Brien looking to camera.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki
Lee-Ann Scotti and Michael O’Brien form two equal halves of Craftwork's brewing team that’s a partnership in every sense of the phrase.

Get Around Good Grub, Here's the Best Things to Eat in the Waitaki Region

Waiter at Cucina holding a cauliflower dish.
Story Ōamaru & Waitaki
These dishes come from some of the area’s most loved dining establishments and all represent the region in a uniquely different way.