Find hotels in Oamaru from £42

Top reasons to visit Oamaru

• Victorian Architecture: Stroll through Oamaru's historic town centre, where stunning Victorian buildings showcase the town's rich heritage.
• Steampunk Culture: Experience the vibrant steampunk scene with unique shops and events that celebrate this quirky subculture.
• Oamaru Opera House: Enjoy performances at the beautifully restored opera house, a cultural highlight of the region.
• Scenic Harbour: Explore the picturesque Oamaru Harbour, perfect for leisurely walks and stunning views.
• Public Gardens: Relax in the charming Oamaru Public Gardens, a delightful spot for picnics and leisurely strolls.

Find great hotels in Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming motels to inviting lodges, perfect for families and eco-conscious travellers alike. Whether you seek a heritage hideaway or a lively backpackers’ experience, you'll find hotels with essential amenities and outdoor seating to enjoy the stunning surroundings. Explore Oamaru's unique charm while staying in comfortable lodgings tailored to your needs.

• The Mews Oamaru: The Mews Oamaru is a charming 4.5-star motel boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.4. Nestled in the heart of Oamaru, this eco-certified property is ideal for families and environmentally conscious travellers alike. The hotel features family-friendly amenities such as complimentary cribs and highchairs, alongside a first aid kit for peace of mind. Guests enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by its commitment to sustainability, ensuring a delightful stay while caring for the planet.
• Ascot Oamaru Motel: Ascot Oamaru Motel is a comfortable 3-star lodging option perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. With a reputation for its welcoming environment, this motel offers various child-friendly amenities, including a fun arcade game room, a children's pool, and provisions for breakfast at a nominal fee. The property is designed with family convenience in mind, making it a delightful base for exploring the charming town of Oamaru together.
• Oamaru Motor Lodge: Oamaru Motor Lodge stands as a 4-star accommodation with a guest rating of 9.4, catering to both business travellers and pet owners. This motel allows pets on the premises with specific restrictions and provides amenities such as a dog exercise area and waived fees for service animals. Its strategic location in Oamaru makes it an excellent choice for those combining work with leisure, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your furry companions.

Where to stay in and around Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming city in Otago, offers a delightful blend of history and adventure. Explore the picturesque town centre, where Victorian architecture meets vibrant steampunk culture. Venture into the surrounding regions for stunning outdoor scenery and romantic getaways. Whether you're wandering through the historic streets or enjoying family-friendly activities, Oamaru is the perfect base for an unforgettable New Zealand experience.

• Kakanui: Nestled approximately 11.3km from Oamaru, Kakanui offers a delightful escape into nature. Known for its stunning outdoor scenery, this suburb is perfect for eco-friendly experiences. Visitors flock here during the warmer months from December to February, enjoying the local beach and lake, while relaxing at nearby spas and treatment centres. Kakanui’s charming water features provide a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil getaway amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Awamoa: Just 4.8km from Oamaru, Awamoa is a quaint suburb that enchants visitors with its romantic atmosphere and scenic beauty. The town attracts travellers year-round, particularly during the summer months. Awamoa is well-known for its vibrant shopping area, offering a mix of local crafts and delightful cafés. With the nearby beach and serene lakes, this suburb is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a peaceful retreat. The lush surroundings and water features add to the allure, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
• Ardgowan: Located close to Oamaru, Ardgowan captivates visitors with its rich cultural offerings and romantic charm. This suburb sees a steady flow of tourists throughout the year, particularly peaking in the summer months. Ardgowan is renowned for its stunning castle, which serves as a highlight for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. With its beautiful landscapes and proximity to Oamaru, Ardgowan is an inviting destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Things to do in Oamaru

Oamaru is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic getaway, offering a variety of activities. Explore the wonderful shopping areas, enjoy the scenic recreation parks, and indulge in body treatments. Key attractions include holiday parks and opportunities for memorable day trips, ensuring a fun-filled experience that captures the charm of this unique town.

Shopping

In Oamaru, you can explore local shops like the Oamaru Farmers Market for fresh produce and unique crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Dunedin Central, where you’ll find larger shopping centres, including The Meridian Mall, offering a variety of retail outlets and dining options.

Recreation

In Oamaru, the Steampunk HQ offers a unique blend of art and wellness, where creativity meets relaxation. Nearby, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides a tranquil setting to connect with nature while observing adorable penguins in their natural habitat, promoting a serene escape from daily life.

Adventure

In Oamaru, explore the incredible Blue Penguin Colony at dusk, witnessing adorable penguins returning home. For thrill-seekers, the nearby Moeraki Boulders offer a stunning coastal walk, where you can marvel at these unique geological formations along the shoreline.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Oamaru Club on Thames Street for local entertainment and a friendly atmosphere. For a relaxed evening, visit the Criterion Hotel on Ribble Street, where you can enjoy a selection of craft ales and hearty pub meals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oamaru

• 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 December to February, 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the most affordable prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your Oamaru hotel with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming destination in Otago, is perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the scenic Oamaru Harbour, stroll through the picturesque Oamaru Public Gardens, and enjoy performances at the historic Oamaru Opera House. This delightful town offers a unique blend of culture and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday in New Zealand.

• Steampunk HQ: Dive into a world of imagination at Steampunk HQ, where Victorian aesthetics blend with modern creativity. This unique exhibit showcases intricate machinery and art that captures the essence of steampunk culture, making it a must-visit for those seeking a quirky and inspiring experience.
• Oamaru Harbour: Enjoy the stunning coastal views at Oamaru Harbour, where the scenery is breathtaking and the beach vibes are relaxing. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or savour local cuisine at nearby cafés, all while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
• North Otago Museum: Explore the rich history of the region at North Otago Museum. With engaging exhibits and cultural artefacts, this museum offers insights into local heritage, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.

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	Slightly High
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	Average
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

When planning your visit to Oamaru, you have a few airport options. Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is situated 109.4km away, with nearby hotels such as the 4-star Bonnie Knights Motel and the 3-star Silver Peaks Lodge. Timaru Airport (TIU) is 90.1km from Oamaru, offering accommodations like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel. For a longer journey, Wānaka Airport (WKA) is 141.6km away, with luxurious options like Lakeshore Springs Apartments. Each of these airports provides various transport services to facilitate your travel to Oamaru, ensuring a smooth start to your holiday in New Zealand.