Find hotels in Oamaru from £41

Top reasons to visit Oamaru

• Charming Historic Precinct: Stroll through Oamaru's beautifully preserved historic area, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich heritage.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: Enjoy picturesque beaches and scenic coastal walks, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Unique Wildlife Experiences: Visit the famous Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to witness these delightful creatures in their natural habitat.
• Art and Culture: Explore local galleries and exhibits that highlight Oamaru's vibrant artistic community and cultural history.
• Outdoor Adventures: Venture into the nearby Waitaki Valley for hiking, cycling, and breathtaking landscapes.

Find great hotels in Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, including motels and lodges, perfect for family vacations or eco-conscious travellers. Whether you seek a charming city-themed stay or a tranquil retreat, Oamaru's hotels cater to diverse preferences. With its unique blend of scenic beauty and historic charm, you'll find the ideal lodging to enhance your experience in this captivating part of Otago.

• The Mews Oamaru: A charming 4.5-star eco-certified motel, The Mews Oamaru is perfect for families seeking a city-themed getaway. Its eco-friendly ethos ensures that guests can enjoy a sustainable experience while exploring the vibrant heart of Oamaru. Families will appreciate amenities tailored for children, including highchairs and cribs, along with a first aid kit for added peace of mind. The hotel's central location makes it an ideal base for discovering local attractions, parks, and restaurants, making it a favourite for eco-conscious travellers.
• Oamaru Motor Lodge: Targeted towards business travellers and pet owners, this 4-star motel blends comfort with practicality. The Oamaru Motor Lodge features a dedicated business centre, ensuring that professionals can stay productive even while away from the office. This pet-friendly establishment allows certain pets on-site, complete with a dog exercise area for furry companions to stretch their legs. With its convenient location in Oamaru, guests can enjoy a seamless balance of work and leisure while taking in the town’s unique charm.
• Brydone Hotel Oamaru: A welcoming 3.5-star hotel known for its eco-certification, the Brydone Hotel Oamaru is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious visitors. The hotel's commitment to sustainability is matched by its comfortable accommodations and friendly service. Situated conveniently in Oamaru, guests have easy access to local attractions, shops, and cultural experiences. The Brydone Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and eco-awareness, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy Oamaru while staying mindful of their environmental impact.

Where to stay near Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance. Stroll through the charming historic precinct, relax at the picturesque beaches, or embark on scenic walks along the coastline. Just a short drive away, you'll discover the stunning landscapes of the Waitaki Valley, ideal for adventurous outings and tranquil retreats. Embrace the serene vibes and unique experiences that Oamaru and its surroundings have to offer.

• Kakanui: Situated approximately 4.3km from Oamaru, Kakanui is a charming suburb that offers a delightful escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This area is known for its stunning scenery and eco-friendly experiences, making it a perfect spot for those looking to unwind amidst picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely day at the nearby beach, explore local parks, and marvel at the unique rock formations. The shopping area adds a touch of convenience, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Peak visitor numbers occur between December and February, making it an ideal time to enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
• Awamoa: Located just 1.9km from Oamaru, Awamoa is a tranquil suburb that beckons travellers with its romantic outdoor settings. Renowned for its scenic beauty, the area features enchanting lakes, inviting water features, and winding rivers, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics by the water. The visitor numbers peak from January to March, offering a lively yet serene experience during the summer months. Whether you're seeking a quiet getaway or an adventure in nature, Awamoa provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
• Deborah: Only 1.2km from Oamaru, Deborah is a suburb steeped in culture and family-friendly activities. This area is particularly popular for those interested in historic sites and local attractions, making it an enriching destination for visitors of all ages. The charming tourist precinct and inviting neighbourhoods create a warm atmosphere, perfect for discovering the local heritage. With peak visitor numbers occurring from January to March, Deborah is an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy a mix of culture and outdoor fun.

Things to do in and around Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore charming shopping areas, indulge in body treatments, and enjoy various exhibits that showcase the region's unique culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Oamaru provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable getaway.

Shopping

In Oamaru, the Whitestone Cheese Factory offers delightful local cheeses and gourmet products. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby township of Timaru for additional shopping options, including department stores and unique boutiques showcasing regional crafts and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the Lower Waitaki Golf Course, located 5.6km from Oamaru, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes. The course offers a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature while engaging in a leisurely sport.

Adventure

Experience the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, a thrilling outdoor adventure that stretches from the Southern Alps to the stunning coastline. Enjoy breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and the invigorating feel of the wind as you cycle through this picturesque region of Oamaru.

Nightlife

Oamaru's nightlife is charming and relaxed, with venues like The Oamaru Club providing a friendly atmosphere for socialising over drinks. The Penguin Club hosts live music events, while the Criterion Hotel offers a classic pub experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oamaru

To save money on your trip to Oamaru, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May or July to August, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Tuesdays tend to be the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Explore last-minute deals on sites like Expedia, and use their search tools to find budget-friendly hotels by comparing rates and filtering options. Additionally, consider package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings, ensuring you get the best value for your visit.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oamaru are May and July to 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Oamaru is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilise Expedia's search wizard to refine your choices, taking into account your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation that suits you best. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Oamaru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming destination in Otago, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including historic sites, galleries, and the scenic harbour. The town offers a rich cultural experience suitable for families, making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in local history and attractions. Discover the unique blend of nature and culture that Oamaru has to offer.

• Steampunk HQ: Dive into a fantastical world of Steampunk culture at this unique exhibit. With its quirky art installations and interactive displays, it offers an imaginative experience that celebrates innovation and creativity in a retro-futuristic style.
• Oamaru Harbour: Enjoy stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere at Oamaru Harbour. This picturesque location features beautiful beaches, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, while also offering opportunities for boating and wildlife spotting.
• Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct: Step back in time in this charming neighbourhood, characterised by its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Wander through quaint streets filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

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	Average
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 (Dry)	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 (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	47.5°F (8.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Oamaru

To visit Oamaru, you can fly into Timaru Airport (TIU-Richard Pearse), located 34.8km away. This airport serves several popular airlines and offers convenient access to the region. Nearby hotel options include the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel, situated 4.3km from the airport, the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, located 3.1km away, and the 4-star Baywatch Motor Lodge, which is 3.7km from Timaru Airport. Each of these accommodations provides comfortable stays and is well-positioned for easy transport to and from the airport, ensuring a smooth start to your New Zealand adventure.