Historic Ōamaru
The Victorian time capsule
Ōamaru’s remarkably intact and distinctive Victorian streetscapes reveal a once majestic colonial outpost that played a key part in Otago’s industrial and agricultural heritage.
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The significance of Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct
Ngāi Tahu settlement
Ōamaru was part of the extensive network of kāinga nohoanga (settlements) and kāinga mahinga kai (food-gathering places) located along Te Tai-o-Ārai-te-uru (the Otago coastline) where tuna (eels), inaka (whitebait) and kōareare (edible root or rhizome of raupō/bulrush) were gathered. Today, Te Rūnanga o Moeraki continue as mana whenua.
The Victorian neighbourhood built from Ōamaru limestone
This wonderfully preserved precinct of ornately carved limestone buildings was largely built within the space of 30 years thanks to the bounty of wool, grain and frozen meat exported from Ōamaru’s harbour to British markets. At its heart lies Harbour Street, which is one of the few intact Victorian streets left anywhere in the world.
The preservation of this significant area was achieved by a group of dedicated locals who have lovingly restored and repurposed its beautiful buildings over the last three decades.
Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct is proudly cared for by The Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust.
The many things to see and do in the Victorian Precinct
Step back in time
Stroll down Harbour Street and immerse yourself in the Victorian era as you meander between and into ornate buildings that once housed engineering enterprises, grain stores and banks.
Culture vultures and beer buffs
Visit quirky galleries, artisan shops, a world-class bakery, cafés, and a boutique brewery, where the staff are often dressed in period costume.
Steampunk HQ
Have fun at Aotearoa New Zealand’s premier steampunk experience, Steampunk HQ, and visit Whitestone City where you can ride the world’s only penny-farthing carousel.
Come for the Victorian Heritage Celebrations in November
Time your visit for Ōamaru’s Victorian Heritage Celebrations for a lively few days featuring a garden party, street parade, cycle races, fashion show, ceilidh, and more.
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