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Local Attractions
Oamaru Attractions
Oamaru is one of the South Island’s coolest little towns.
With its Victorian heritage buildings, this has inspired the locals to create some entertaining attractions that you’ll not want to miss.
What’s more, Oamaru is also an attraction for wildlife, so if you’re dying to see penguins, in particular, this is your place! Keep reading to view our top attractions.
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Moeraki Boulders
The Moeraki Boulders are a group of large spherical “stones” on Koekohe Beach near Moeraki on New Zealand’s Otago coast. These boulders are actually concretions that have been exposed through shoreline erosion from coastal cliffs. Even today, there are still boulders remaining in the mudstone that will, eventually, fall on to the beach as they come lose due to erosion!
The boulders are one of the most fascinating and popular attractions on the South Island.
Little Blue Penguins
The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is one of the most famous attractions in Oamaru.
The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides visitors with an opportunity to see little penguins in their natural environment. A tour during the day allows visitors to peek into the penguins’ nests, stroll through their habitat and learn about their fascinating lives. In the evening, visitors are captivated by watching the nightly arrival of penguins from their days’ fishing at sea.
Oamaru Public Gardens
You'll feel the magic of Oamaru Public Gardens the moment you enter the classical main gates on Severn Street. Started in 1876, these gardens are a botanical expression of Oamaru's Victorian history.
Just inside the entrance is the Craig Fountain. Made of fine Italian marble, this outstanding fountain is surrounded by colourful bedding areas.
Steampunk HQ
Steampunk HQ is an art collaboration and gallery in the historic Victorian precinct of Oamaru, New Zealand. Opened in November 2011, it celebrates its own industrial take on steampunk via an array of contraptions and sculptures, complemented by audio-visual installations in two darkened rooms and part of the buildings basement. A yard also contains a collection of other industrial parts and projects in various stages of completion.
Oamaru's Victorian Precinct
Elephant Rocks
Wander through the towering limestone rocks at Elephant Rocks. A geological wonder of the Waitaki, this unique landscape has featured in films such as Narnia: the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Shag Point
Shag Point/Matakaea has a rich history, from early Ngai Tahu settlement to historic coalmining. The area has diverse marine life. It has interesting flora, is great for wildlife viewing, and is geologically fascinating. It is one of the best places in New Zealand to watch Fur Seals as they sleep and bask in the sunshine!
Lake Benmore & Benmore Dam
Lake Benmore is a lake located in the South Island of New Zealand. It was artificially created in the 1960s by construction of Benmore Dam. The lake covers an area of approximately 75 km².
Vanished World
The community -inspired Vanished World Society was formed in the early 2000s to help raise public awareness about the geology of the Waitaki district. The Society is active in promoting the science, conservation and appropriate use of fossils, outcrops, and landforms, through a process of education, science -communication and “hands-on experience”.
Whitestone Cheese Factory
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