Oamaru
Oamaru, a town of distinctive charm on New Zealand's South Island, is renowned for its remarkable collection of whitestone buildings. Crafted from the locally quarried 'Oamaru Stone,' these ornate structures, many of which were originally grain and wool stores, lend a unique character to the town. The preserved Harbour/Tyne Historic Precinct is a highlight, where these magnificent buildings continue to stand, some still serving their original purpose while others now house an intriguing array of curious shops, gift stores, restaurants, and a motoring museum. Beyond its architectural grandeur, Oamaru boasts a vibrant shopping scene with numerous galleries and iconic stores. Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Steampunk, a defining element of the town's creative spirit. As dusk falls, head to the harbor front to witness the charming spectacle of a little blue penguin colony returning to their burrows, and keep an eye out along the coastline for sightings of the rare yellow-eyed penguins.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony Premium Evening Viewing
Oamaru's Blue Penguins nest close to town under the cliffs along the Historic Harbour foreshore. The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is just beyond the Victorian Heritage Precinct and you are within walking distance of the town centre, close to shops, restaurants and accommodation.
When penguins are on shore and have chosen to nest in the Blue Wing it is possible to see them within a couple of feet of you. At the appropriate times of the year you may see them incubating eggs or guarding the tiny chicks. You can watch the chicks as they wait for their daily meal to return with their parents.
You will be seated 2-3 metres from where the blue penguins arrive and cross into the colony. And be treated to an informative commentary by a trained guide. This Viewing is 1 and a half hours and includes the opportunity to enter the breeding colony on a boardwalk and walk among the blue penguin nesting burrows.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony - Evening Viewing
Oamaru's Blue Penguins nest close to town under the cliffs along the Historic Harbour foreshore. The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is just beyond the Victorian Heritage Precinct and you are within walking distance of the town centre, close to shops, restaurants and accommodation. When penguins are on shore and have chosen to nest in the Blue Wing it is possible to see them within a couple of feet of you. At the appropriate times of the year you may see them incubating eggs or guarding the tiny chicks. You can watch the chicks as they wait for their daily meal to return with their parents. You will be seated 2-3 metres from where the blue penguins arrive and cross into the colony. And be treated to an informative commentary by a trained guide. This Viewing is 1 and a half hours and includes the opportunity to enter the breeding colony on a boardwalk and walk among the blue penguin nesting burrows.
Rockvale Stone and Garden
This garden was originally created to display the Oamaru Stone the region is famous for, but was slowly been expanded to include a large formal garden. Featuring beautiful foliage mixed with local rock carvings this garden is a delightful mix of classic and contemporary, located in the heart of the North Otago countryside.