The Waitaki District is surrounded by natural beauty. It is a haven for wildlife including Oamaru Blue and Yellow-Eyed Penguin colonies, shags, seals, and an abundance of birdlife.
The main town of Oamaru has elegant 19th century architecture, calls itself the Steampunk capital of New Zealand, and is the finishing point of the Alps 2 Ocean cycle way—a 300km journey from the mountains to the sea.
Overflowing with natural beauty, rich in culture and heritage and brimming with activities for all.
- Visit Moeraki Boulders, Elephant Rocks and Clay Cliffs
- See the world’s smallest penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony.
- Get the Steampunk experience, with immersive retro-futuristic sci-fi art.
- Stroll around the Victorian era architecture of downtown Oamaru.
- Ride the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.
Spring - Sept to Nov
70 - 170
Whip off your winter woollies and embrace the spring sun with a visit to the flowers in
Oamaru Public Gardens – one of the oldest in New Zealand.
Summer - Dec to Feb
120 - 300
Share our pristine, secluded beaches with wildlife; blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins,
Hectors dolphins and NZ fur seals. Inland, enjoy a network of lakes and rivers which
provide a wide range of summer recreation opportunities.
Autumn - Mar to May
60 - 160
The Waitaki Valley transforms to a vibrant blend of yellows, golds, oranges and red. Autumn is a perfect time to explore our mountains, lakes and rivers. Enjoy scenic driving routes or cycle the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.
Winter - Jun to Aug
00 - 150
Winter kicks off with Fire and Steam in Oamaru. Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct comes to
life with lights, music, fire and steam. The Ohau Snow Fields are a winter playground for
snow lovers.
View the Discover the South Itinerary
