Find the best Waitaki District Hotels

Top reasons to visit Waitaki District

• Stunning Scenery: Waitaki District boasts breathtaking landscapes, including serene lakes and iconic rock formations.
• Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like skiing and hiking.
• Rich History: Explore the historical significance of sites like the Waitaki Bridge and Waitaki Dam.
• Romantic Getaways: Perfect for couples seeking a tranquil retreat amidst beautiful surroundings.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of charming motels and hotels suitable for all types of travellers.

Find great hotels in Waitaki District

Discover a delightful range of accommodation options in Waitaki District, New Zealand, featuring charming motels and hotels designed for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking eco-certified lodgings, a family-friendly environment, or a city-themed experience, you'll find the perfect stay here. From the well-regarded Waitaki Hotel to cosy options in Kurow, your ideal getaway awaits in this picturesque region.

• The Mews Oamaru: The Mews Oamaru is a delightful 4.5-star motel ideal for families seeking a city-centric holiday experience. Located in the heart of the Waitaki District, this property is designed to cater to families with young children, offering amenities such as a First Aid Kit, free cribs, and highchairs for children. With its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful services, The Mews Oamaru ensures a comfortable stay for parents and little ones alike, making it an excellent base for exploring the vibrant local attractions.
• Oamaru Motor Lodge: Oamaru Motor Lodge presents a perfect blend of business convenience and pet-friendly hospitality with its 4-star rating. This motel is tailored for business travellers, featuring a dedicated Business Centre to meet your professional needs. Located in the scenic Waitaki District, the lodge permits pets on-site, making it a great choice for those who wish to travel with their furry companions. With amenities like a designated dog exercise area and clear pet policies, guests can enjoy a stress-free stay while still attending to work commitments.
• Brydone Hotel Oamaru: Emphasising sustainability, the Brydone Hotel Oamaru is a charming 3.5-star accommodation that is eco-certified, making it a prime choice for environmentally conscious travellers. Nestled in the picturesque Waitaki District, the hotel combines comfort with eco-friendly practices, ensuring that guests can enjoy their stay while minimising their environmental impact. With its commitment to green practices and welcoming ambience, Brydone Hotel Oamaru offers a unique experience for those looking to explore the region responsibly.

Where to stay in Waitaki District

Exploring the Waitaki District in New Zealand promises a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Discover the iconic Waitaki Bridge and the serene Waitaki Lakes, perfect for a romantic getaway. Don’t miss the impressive Waitaki Dam and the picturesque Waitaki River, all set against a backdrop of friendly locals and rich history. This charming district offers a relaxing escape while catering to budget-conscious travellers seeking both excitement and tranquillity.

• Oamaru: Nestled in the heart of the Waitaki District, Oamaru is a charming city renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene. The area offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, making it a perfect destination for couples and families alike. Visitors can explore the picturesque shopping area or indulge in rejuvenating body treatments. Oamaru's natural attractions include beautiful lakes, serene parks, and captivating water features that enhance the scenic landscape. The peak travel season from January to March ensures a lively atmosphere, with plenty of activities to enjoy.
• Omarama: A delightful suburb in the Waitaki District, Omarama is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, with nearby lakes and the majestic national state park offering endless exploration opportunities. Visitors flock to Omarama between September and January, enjoying activities such as shopping and recreational pursuits. The local charm is complemented by wellness options like body treatments, providing a balanced retreat for travellers. The picturesque mountains surrounding the suburb add to the allure, making Omarama an enchanting stop on your journey.
• Moeraki: This quaint suburb within the Waitaki District is famed for its eco-friendly appeal and remarkable coastal scenery. Moeraki attracts those looking to immerse themselves in nature, with its stunning beaches, intriguing rock formations, and lush parks. The travel experience in Moeraki is characterised by outdoor activities, shopping, and golfing, ensuring there's something for everyone. The peak travel months of January to March promise a lively atmosphere, while the tranquil surroundings offer a perfect escape. Whether you're exploring the coastline or enjoying the local attractions, Moeraki is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Things to do in Waitaki District

Waitaki District is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, indulge in body treatments, and explore ski fields. It's also ideal for a day trip, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation amidst the beautiful New Zealand landscape.

Shopping

In Waitaki District, visit Whitestone Cheese Factory for delicious local cheeses and Totara Peak Gallery for stunning art pieces. If you're up for a drive, head to Oamaru's Victorian Precinct, about 6.2km away, where you can find unique shops and charming cafes.

Recreation

At Hot Tubs Omarama, unwind in private outdoor hot tubs surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, the Lower Waitaki Golf Course offers a delightful outdoor experience with well-maintained greens and scenic views, ideal for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skiing at Ohau Skifield, where you can enjoy exhilarating runs amidst stunning alpine scenery. Alternatively, embrace the great outdoors along the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, a picturesque route offering breathtaking views and the perfect opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of Waitaki District.

Nightlife

The Waitaki District offers a charming nightlife, where you can enjoy a pint at the lively Oamaru's Criterion Hotel or savour local wines at the stylish Riverstone Kitchen. For a more relaxed evening, stroll along the waterfront in Oamaru and soak in the coastal atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waitaki District

To save money during your visit to Waitaki District, consider travelling between July and September when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure the best deals, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. Explore Expedia for last-minute deals and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Additionally, utilise filters to find eco-friendly hotels within your budget. Don’t forget to seek out free activities in the area to enhance your experience without straining your wallet.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waitaki District are July to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Waitaki District about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waitaki District is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Waitaki District is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in the Waitaki District with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Waitaki District

Waitaki District offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. Visitors can explore fascinating rock formations, serene lakes, and engaging exhibits that cater to those seeking culture and adventure. Notable attractions include the edge of Lake Waitaki and nearby sites, ensuring a memorable experience for all types of travellers.

• Steampunk HQ: An extraordinary exhibit, Steampunk HQ immerses visitors in a fantastical world where Victorian aesthetics blend with futuristic technology. This creative space showcases a remarkable array of art and inventions, all inspired by the steampunk genre, offering a unique cultural experience.
• Old School Gallery: This charming art gallery features an impressive collection of local artworks, celebrating the creativity and talent of the Waitaki District. The gallery's welcoming atmosphere and diverse exhibitions make it an ideal spot for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
• Lake Ohau: A stunning alpine lake, Lake Ohau is perfect for outdoor adventures. With its breathtaking scenery, sandy beaches, and romantic ambiance, it's an idyllic location for picnics, hiking, or simply relaxing while taking in the gorgeous views.

Best time to go to Waitaki District

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The nearest major airports for your trip to Waitaki District

When visiting Waitaki District, you can fly into several major airports. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is approximately 49.1km away, with nearby accommodations such as the 5-star Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, located 497m from the airport, and The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments, 1.9km away. Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is about 50.3km from Waitaki and offers hotel options like Bonnie Knights Motel and Bella Vista Motel Mosgiel, both 5.0km from the airport. Timaru Airport (TIU) is the closest at 34.2km away, with excellent choices like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, 4.3km from the airport.