Historic Precinct Travel Guide
Oamaru
Visit Historic Precinct
Popular places to visit
Steampunk HQ
Try out interactive displays, marvel at intricate creations, get lost in a light show or just have some bizarre fun at this art gallery with a difference.
Oamaru Harbour
Explore the waterfront in Oamaru with a trip to Oamaru Harbour. Amble around the area's waterfront or experience its museums.
Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct in Oamaru. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.
Grainstore Gallery
Delve inside the minds of a group of local artists as you explore the curiosities of this fascinating gallery, housed within a former Victorian grain store.
St Lukes Anglican Church
St Lukes Anglican Church is just one of the places to see in Oamaru, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around the area's marina or experience its museums.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Explore the great outdoors at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, a lovely green space in Oamaru. Amble around the area's marina or experience its museums.
Things to do
Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket
Top hotels in Historic Precinct
Criterion Boutique Hotel
For a budget hotel, I found myself having the most comfortable sleep in any of the hotels I stayed at in New Zealand! The rooms were super small without TV and en-suite bathroom, but I didn't expect it given this is 1 of only 2 remaining original continuosly ran hotels in the town.
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2026
Pen-y-bryn Lodge
I had a wonderful stay at Pen-y-bryn Lodge. The property is a beautiful historic building with a peaceful atmosphere, and the room was spacious, spotless, and full of character. The hosts were extremely friendly and welcoming, making the stay feel warm and personal. Overall, a fantastic experience ...
Reviewed on 25 Nov 2025
Oamaru Holiday Homes 28 Ure Street
The Nest on Till
Penguin Retreat
Brydone Hotel Oamaru
Excellent location. Bed was very comfortable. The room was clean. The toilettries were of nice quality and contributing to a charitable cause. I appreciate that. Due to our schedule, we did not try the restaurant. Overall, we were very happy and had no issues.
Reviewed on 21 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Historic Precinct
South Hill
If you're spending some time in South Hill, Oamaru Harbour and Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct are top sights worth seeing.
Holmes Hill
Holmes Hill might not have many top sights, but Oamaru Gardens and Steampunk HQ are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Waiareka Junction
While there might not be top attractions in Waiareka Junction, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Steampunk HQ and Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct.
Ardgowan
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Ardgowan and surrounding area, you can visit Whitestone Cheese Factory and Steampunk HQ.
Oamaru North
Oamaru North might not have many top sights, but Whitestone Cheese Factory and Steampunk HQ are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Weston
When in Weston, you can plan a visit to Whitestone Cheese Factory and Steampunk HQ, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
