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Top reasons to visit Oamaru

• Stunning Outdoor Scenery: Oamaru boasts breathtaking landscapes and scenic ocean trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore local galleries and historical sites that reflect Oamaru's unique heritage.
• Picturesque Harbour: Enjoy the charm of Oamaru's harbour, ideal for leisurely strolls and scenic views.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Oamaru offers a range of activities suitable for visitors of all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From stylish motels to charming lodges, Oamaru provides a variety of unique stays for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Oamaru

In Oamaru, you'll discover a fantastic selection of accommodation options, from stylish motels to charming lodges, perfect for any traveller seeking a unique experience. Whether you're looking for eco-certified stays or a nature-themed getaway, Oamaru has something to offer. Enjoy comfortable motel rooms and explore the city's rich heritage and stunning landscapes while enjoying the best that this picturesque region has to offer.

• The Mews Oamaru: The Mews Oamaru is a 4.5-star eco-certified motel that welcomes families and eco-conscious travellers with open arms. Nestled in the heart of Oamaru, this property is designed to offer a sustainable vacation experience without compromising comfort. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities, including a free crib and highchairs for children, along with a First Aid kit for peace of mind. With its commitment to the environment and family-friendly services, The Mews is an ideal choice for those looking to create lasting memories in a responsible way.
• Oamaru Motor Lodge: Rated at 4 stars, Oamaru Motor Lodge caters to business travellers looking for convenience and comfort. This modern motel offers essential business amenities, including a dedicated business centre, ensuring that guests can stay productive while on the road. Additionally, the property is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along with them. With a dog exercise area and specific pet policies, it's a perfect choice for those who want to blend work and leisure with their pets by their side.
• Ascot Oamaru Motel: Ascot Oamaru Motel is a welcoming 3-star option for travellers seeking a relaxed stay. Offering a variety of dining options, including a continental breakfast and a bar and lounge area, guests can indulge in delicious meals without leaving the property. For those looking for adventure, the motel is ideally located near hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing spots. With entertainment options such as premium TV channels and a billiards table, Ascot ensures that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay after a day of exploring Oamaru.

Where to stay in and around Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming city in Otago, offers a delightful blend of history and adventure. With its scenic landscapes and romantic vibes, visitors can explore the peaceful surroundings, enjoy sunny days, and discover unique attractions. Nearby, you'll find stunning beaches and cultural experiences that showcase the region's character. Whether you seek outdoor escapades or a relaxing getaway, Oamaru and its neighbourhoods provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.

• Kakanui: Nestled approximately 11.3km from Oamaru, Kakanui is a charming suburb that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With peak visitor numbers between December and February, the area is perfect for those seeking an eco-friendly experience. Kakanui is well-known for its beautiful beach, picturesque parks, and unique rock formations. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the coastline, explore local shops, or simply soak in the serene environment that makes this suburb a hidden gem.
• Oamaru North: Positioned around the Oamaru area, Oamaru North is a suburb that captivates visitors with its romantic charm and scenic vistas. The suburb experiences a peak in traveller arrivals from January to March, making it an ideal time to experience its outdoor offerings. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, embark on invigorating hikes, or relax by the tranquil lake and harbour. The natural water features that dot the landscape further enhance the area's beauty, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely escape.
• Awamoa: Located a mere 4.8km from Oamaru, Awamoa is another inviting suburb that is perfect for those looking for romantic outdoor experiences. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, Awamoa offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of its lakes, rivers, and water features. This area is ideal for leisurely walks or picnics by the water, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity that Awamoa has to offer.

Things to do in and around Oamaru

Oamaru offers a charming blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway. Visitors can explore its vibrant shopping precinct, indulge in body treatments, and enjoy captivating exhibits. Key attractions include breathtaking lookouts, the opportunity for day excursions, and scenic ocean trails. Don't forget to book tours to fully experience the region's unique offerings and picturesque landscapes.

Shopping

For unique souvenirs, visit the Whitestone Cheese Factory in Oamaru, where you can sample and purchase local cheeses. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby shopping options in larger centres for a wider range of gifts and artisan products.

Recreation

Play a round at Lower Waitaki Golf Course, just 14.5km from Oamaru, immersed in beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and camaraderie, embracing the outdoor vibes while perfecting your swing amidst picturesque surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, an exhilarating outdoor adventure that winds through stunning landscapes. Enjoy breathtaking views as you cycle from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Oamaru region along the way.

Nightlife

In Oamaru, the Criterion Hotel boasts a relaxed pub atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local brews. The Oamaru Opera House hosts live performances, while the Penguin Club offers a unique vibe for late-night fun, making it a charming spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oamaru

To save money on your trip to Oamaru, consider visiting between May to June or August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals on sites like Expedia can yield great savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine flights and accommodation for additional savings. Enjoy free activities like exploring the coastline and parks to make the most of your visit without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oamaru are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Oamaru about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, highlighting the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Oamaru hotel booking with your flights and activities when you opt for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru, known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic charm, offers a range of attractions including exhibits, the picturesque harbour, and local galleries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and family-friendly experiences available in the area, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the unique blend of history and natural beauty that Oamaru has to offer.

• Steampunk HQ: Immerse yourself in a fantastical world at Steampunk HQ, where art and engineering collide in an imaginative exhibit. This unique attraction showcases the culture of the Steampunk movement through intricate designs, quirky sculptures, and interactive installations, making it a must-visit for creative minds.
• Oamaru Harbour: Enjoy the stunning scenery at Oamaru Harbour, where you can take leisurely strolls along the beach, admire the picturesque views, and watch boats bobbing in the water. The harbour is perfect for a relaxing day out, blending natural beauty with a vibrant local atmosphere.
• Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct: Step back in time at the Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct, a beautifully preserved area that showcases stunning architecture and rich history. Explore charming streets filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes, all while soaking in the city vibes of this unique neighbourhood.

Best time to go to Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Oamaru falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Oamaru falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	46.0°F (7.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	45.9°F (7.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	47.5°F (8.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Oamaru

To visit Oamaru, you can fly into Timaru's Richard Pearse Airport (TIU), situated 90.1km away. Nearby accommodation options include the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, located 11.3km from the airport, and the 4-star Baywatch Motor Lodge, which is 9.7km away. Another great choice is the Ashbury Park Motel, positioned 8.0km from Timaru Airport. These hotels provide convenient access to transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to Oamaru. Whether you’re looking for comfort or affordability, there are suitable options to enhance your stay.