Search Oamaru hotels

Top reasons to visit Oamaru

• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Oamaru's breathtaking coastline offers picturesque views, ideal for beach outings and outdoor adventures.
• Historic Victorian Architecture: Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian precinct, showcasing Oamaru's rich heritage and charm.
• Engaging Cultural Experiences: Visit various galleries and exhibitions that highlight local art and history, appealing to culture seekers.
• Wildlife Encounters: Experience unique wildlife interactions, including adorable penguin watching along the coast.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of cosy lodges and motels, perfect for families and eco-conscious travellers.

Find great hotels in Oamaru

Discover a range of charming accommodations in Oamaru, Otago, perfect for your holiday getaway. Whether you prefer a cosy motel or a welcoming lodge, you'll find options that cater to families and eco-conscious travellers alike. Experience the unique city-themed atmosphere while enjoying a family holiday. From budget-friendly motels to comfortable lodges, Oamaru offers a variety of hotel options to suit every need.

• The Mews Oamaru: The Mews Oamaru, boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.4, offers a family-friendly atmosphere situated in the heart of Oamaru. This motel is ideal for those seeking a city-themed holiday experience while ensuring comfort for children. Amenities such as highchairs, cribs, and a first aid kit make it a practical choice for families. Guests appreciate the welcoming environment and the convenience of being located near local attractions, allowing for an enjoyable stay.
• Ascot Oamaru Motel: Ascot Oamaru Motel is a well-appointed lodging option for families, providing a range of amenities tailored for younger guests. It features a children’s arcade game room, a pool suitable for children, and breakfast options at an additional fee. Located in Oamaru, this motel caters to families looking for a comfortable and engaging holiday experience, ensuring that children are entertained while parents can relax and enjoy their stay.
• Brydone Hotel Oamaru: With a guest rating of 8.6, Brydone Hotel Oamaru stands out as an eco-certified property, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travellers. This hotel combines comfort with sustainability, providing an inviting atmosphere while promoting eco-friendly practices. Situated in Oamaru, it invites guests to enjoy a unique holiday experience that aligns with their values, all while being conveniently close to the town’s attractions and amenities.

Where to stay in and around Oamaru

Oamaru, with its stunning coastal scenery and rich history, offers a delightful escape for tourists seeking adventure and romance. Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture in the historic precinct, immerse yourself in local wildlife encounters, or enjoy outdoor activities amidst breathtaking landscapes. With a variety of events and experiences, Oamaru is perfect for families and couples alike, ensuring a memorable holiday in this charming New Zealand city.

• Kakanui: Nestled approximately 11km from Oamaru, Kakanui is a charming suburb that offers a delightful outdoor experience. With visitor numbers peaking between December and February, this area is perfect for those seeking scenic beauty and eco-friendly adventures. The stunning local beach and serene lake provide a tranquil escape, while visitors can indulge in body treatments at local spas or browse quaint stores. Kakanui is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking to unwind amidst picturesque surroundings.
• Awamoa: Located about 5km from Oamaru, Awamoa is a picturesque suburb that attracts visitors year-round, with a peak season from January to March. Renowned for its romantic settings and scenic vistas, Awamoa is perfect for couples and outdoor lovers alike. The area features inviting shopping areas and easy access to beautiful beaches and lakes. Visitors can soak in the natural beauty while enjoying leisurely strolls along the water’s edge, making it a wonderful destination for relaxation and exploration.
• Oamaru North: Situated in proximity to Oamaru, Oamaru North offers a perfect blend of outdoor experiences and historical intrigue. With a steady influx of visitors, particularly from January to March, this suburb is known for its romantic atmosphere and scenic landscapes. You can pamper yourself with body treatments at local spas or explore the fascinating history museum nearby. The area also boasts lovely lakes and water features, ensuring a captivating experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.

Things to do in Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy charming shopping areas and recreational parks, while also indulging in rejuvenating body treatments. Key activities include beach outings, hiking trails, whale watching, and soaking in stunning views, ensuring a fun and memorable experience in this picturesque town.

Shopping

In Oamaru, you can explore local shops along Thames Street, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit The Warehouse in nearby Timaru for a wider selection of homewares and clothing.

Recreation

In Oamaru, the Awamoa Wellness Centre offers a serene environment with holistic treatments and yoga sessions, allowing you to reconnect with yourself. The nearby Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides a tranquil nature experience, where you can observe the charming blue penguins in their natural habitat at dusk.

Adventure

Explore the dramatic coastline at Oamaru's Blue Penguin Colony, where you can witness the adorable little blue penguins returning to shore at dusk. For a thrill, try the Oamaru Harbour, where kayaking and paddleboarding offer an exciting way to enjoy the scenic waterfront and spot local wildlife.

Nightlife

Visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony for a unique experience watching the adorable penguins return home at dusk. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Criterion Hotel on Thames Street for a drink and live music, or enjoy a relaxed evening at the Oamaru Opera House with its various performances.

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 narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your Oamaru hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru is a charming destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, featuring stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Highlights include the picturesque harbour, various galleries, and engaging exhibitions that appeal to families and culture seekers alike. Visitors can explore numerous attractions that showcase the town's unique heritage, making it a delightful spot for a memorable holiday.

• Steampunk HQ: Dive into a whimsical world where Victorian aesthetics meet futuristic technology. This unique exhibit showcases intricate steampunk creations, offering a creative experience that celebrates art and imagination in a playful setting.
• Oamaru Harbour: Enjoy the stunning coastal views and serene atmosphere at Oamaru Harbour. With its charming beach and picturesque scenery, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic while soaking in the beauty of the Otago coastline.
• North Otago Museum: Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the region at North Otago Museum. This engaging venue features diverse exhibitions that highlight local stories and artefacts, providing insight into the area's past.

Best time to go to Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

Getting to Oamaru is convenient via its nearby airports. Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is situated 109km away, with hotels such as Bonnie Knights Motel and Bella Vista Motel Mosgiel located approximately 13km from the airport. Wānaka Airport (WKA) is 142km away, offering nearby accommodations like Lakeshore Springs Apartments and Edgewater, both within 11km, with shuttle services available. Timaru Airport (TIU) is the closest at 90km, featuring hotels like Aspen on King Motel and Ashbury Park Motel, located about 5 to 11km from the airport. Each option ensures easy access to Oamaru for a delightful holiday experience.