Awaken your senses, get lost in nature, and experience New Zealand’s best kept secret. It’s time to get wandering…
The MEMORY MAKER
Make it a family holiday they won’t forget.
Explore the otherworldly Moeraki Boulders, Anatini and Elephant Rocks, learn about giant prehistoric penguins at the Vanished World Centre, or join the imagineers at the annual Steampunk NZ Festival. Unleash some energy on two wheels, or two feet, with world-class family-friendly walking and cycling routes
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Steampunk NZ Festival
Moeraki boulders, Anatini, Elephant Rocks, Vanished World Centre
Ōamaru’s Kids Bike Park, Ōamaru Reservoir, Bushy Beach Walk
FESTIVAL FANATIC
Immerse yourself in the old, the new, the quirky and the blues.
Dress up for the Steampunk NZ Festival or the Victorian Heritage Celebrations, and take your new look for a twirl through the historic precinct or to one of the many events. Find your rhythm at the Harbour Street Jazz & Blues Festival.
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Victorian Heritage Celebrations
Harbour Street Jazz & Blues Festival
Steampunk NZ Festival
The heritage enthusiast
Feed your curiosity on the rich history Waitaki has to offer!
Stroll down a beautifully preserved Victorian street, explore grand buildings like our flagship The Criterion, then learn about Māori history at the Waitaki Museum. Ride round a carousel, jump onto a penny-farthing, or get dressed up for the annual Steampunk Festival. The options are endless, there’s always something to attend!
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Visit the Victorian Precinct for eateries, galleries, boutiques, and Whitestone City
Admire limestone in all its grandeur at the Opera House
Witness a sci-fi, retro futuristic take on the Victorian era at Steampunk HQ
THE ACTIVE ADVENTURER
Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Cycle New Zealand’s longest cycle trail with Alps 2 Ocean, take a jet boat down the Waitaki river, glide with a view of the Southern Alps, and more!
With the region set between majestic mountains, the beautiful South Island high country and the rugged coastal landscapes of North Otago, whatever your adventure, it’s sure to be a winner.
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Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
Scenic hikes, bike, and walking trails
Horse trekking, jetboating, fishing, gliding and more!
The Wildlife Wanderer
Find your escape in the Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark, spanning 7,200 kilometres across the Waitaki region. At night, be captivated by the world smallest penguins (kororā) in their natural environment at the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony.
Drive down the coast to see the Moeraki Boulders, or drive up the Waitaki Valley towards Anatini, Elephant Rocks, Ōmārama, and more.
Experience...
Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Moeraki Boulders, Anatini, Elephant Rocks
Coastal walks, wetlands, and hilltops
The Bougie Foodie
Indulge in award-winning wine, food and friendly hospitality in Waitaki.
Find exceptional fine dining, breweries, award-winning wineries, globally-recognised cheese, pub grub, and brunch-worthy bakeries and cafes from Ōamaru up the Waitaki Valley and along the coast to Dunedin.
Experience...
Award-winning wine and cheese
Restaurants, bars, and exceptional coffee in Ōamaru and the Waitaki Valley
Seaside cafes and famous food trucks along the coastal route.
THE LUXURY LOVER
For those who want to relax and unwind from the stresses of everyday life, Waitaki is the perfect escape. Indulge in a little luxury or treat yourself to some pampering as your worries melt away.
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Wine and dine
Relax in a hot tub
Rest your head at a five-star hotel or luxury glamping experience
