Oamaru Central, New Zealand, offers a unique blend of attractions. The town is renowned for its Victorian architecture, which can be explored in the Victorian Precinct. This area is home to shops, galleries, and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemisphere's most complete Victorian streetscapes and 19th-century architecture. Oamaru's Victorian Heritage Celebrations each November celebrate this heritage. The town is also known for its association with the steampunk subculture, with the popular attractions of Steampunk HQ and a steampunk-inspired playground at Friendly Bay.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Oamaru Public Gardens, the country's oldest public gardens. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, picnicking, and a playground. For those interested in wildlife, Oamaru is home to the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Here, visitors can observe the rarest penguin in the world in the wild. The town also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to spot wildlife such as fur seals and Otago shags.
History and architecture buffs can immerse themselves in the town's unique white limestone townscape. This sets Oamaru apart from other New Zealand towns. The Oamaru Public Gardens, established in 1876, provide a picturesque area to enjoy a short walk and various attractions. These include the Wonderland Garden, marble water fountain, display house with tropical plants, fernery with native species, and a children's playground.