{"title":"Oamaru Highlights","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"oamaru-penguins","title":"Ōamaru Penguins - Sunset Viewing and Daytime Tours","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"248\" data-end=\"299\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"299\"\u003eŌamaru Penguins – Day Tours \u0026amp; Sunset Viewing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"574\"\u003eŌamaru Penguins offers a memorable wildlife experience with the world’s smallest penguin species, the little blue penguin (kororā). Visitors can watch penguins return to shore at dusk during the evening viewing, or join a daytime tour focused on education and conservation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"763\"\u003eLocated close to Ōamaru’s Victorian precinct, the colony is an accessible and family-friendly attraction, ideal for kids and adults looking for a nature-based activity during their visit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oamaru Penguins","offers":[{"title":"General Evening Viewing - Adult","offer_id":45914296582366,"sku":"","price":47.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"General - Evening Viewing Child (5-17years)","offer_id":46265767100638,"sku":"","price":29.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Premium Entry Evening Viewing Child","offer_id":47619451224286,"sku":null,"price":37.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Premium Entry Evening Viewing Adult","offer_id":47619451257054,"sku":null,"price":63.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Daytime Guided Tour - Adult","offer_id":47884998770910,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Daytime Guided Tour - Child","offer_id":47884998803678,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/oamaru-penguins-sunset-viewing-and-daytime-toursgeneral-evening-viewing-adult-4459356.jpg?v=1780012392"},{"product_id":"oamaru-train","title":"Ōamaru Steam and Rail","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"206\" data-end=\"526\"\u003eŌamaru Steam and Rail offers visitors a chance to experience New Zealand’s railway history through heritage train rides and preserved rail equipment. Located in Ōamaru, this attraction celebrates the region’s rail past and provides a unique outing for families, railway enthusiasts, and travellers exploring North Otago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"528\" data-end=\"713\"\u003eDepending on the schedule, visitors may be able to enjoy steam train excursions, explore historic carriages, and learn more about the role rail played in shaping the area’s development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"835\"\u003eŌamaru Steam and Rail is a memorable experience for those interested in heritage transport and classic Kiwi engineering.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oamaru Steam and Rail","offers":[{"title":"Adult","offer_id":45927170277598,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Family","offer_id":45927170343134,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/gallery_big_59.jpg?v=1725161033"},{"product_id":"river-t-winery","title":"River T Winery","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"275\" data-end=\"541\"\u003eRiver-T Winery is a boutique winery located near Ōamaru, offering visitors the chance to experience North Otago’s growing wine region. Known for its small-scale, local approach, River-T is a relaxed stop for travellers interested in regional wines and rural scenery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"543\" data-end=\"717\"\u003eVisitors can enjoy tastings and learn more about local wine production in a peaceful vineyard setting, making it a great addition to a food-and-wine itinerary in North Otago.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Whats on Oamaru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46180192780510,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/river-t-winery-4489018.jpg?v=1780012388"},{"product_id":"riverstone-kitchen","title":"Riverstone Kitchen","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"219\" data-end=\"307\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"219\" data-end=\"307\"\u003eRiverstone Kitchen, Ōamaru – A South Island Dining Destination Rooted in the Land\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"742\"\u003eTucked just north of Ōamaru, \u003cstrong data-start=\"338\" data-end=\"360\"\u003eRiverstone Kitchen\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated \u003cstrong data-start=\"401\" data-end=\"430\"\u003efarm-to-table restaurants\u003c\/strong\u003e, known for its award-winning chefs, \u003cstrong data-start=\"467\" data-end=\"485\"\u003eseasonal menus\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"491\" data-end=\"524\"\u003eorganic produce grown on-site\u003c\/strong\u003e. Led by \u003cstrong data-start=\"533\" data-end=\"557\"\u003etop chef Bevan Smith\u003c\/strong\u003e, Riverstone has earned national acclaim for delivering world-class cuisine with a strong focus on \u003cstrong data-start=\"656\" data-end=\"674\"\u003esustainability\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"676\" data-end=\"707\"\u003elocally sourced ingredients\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"713\" data-end=\"741\"\u003egarden-to-plate flavours\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"744\" data-end=\"1198\"\u003eWhether you’re planning a \u003cstrong data-start=\"770\" data-end=\"796\"\u003eSouth Island road trip\u003c\/strong\u003e, seeking the \u003cstrong data-start=\"810\" data-end=\"842\"\u003ebest places to eat in Ōamaru\u003c\/strong\u003e, or simply craving a meal that celebrates \u003cstrong data-start=\"885\" data-end=\"914\"\u003efresh New Zealand produce\u003c\/strong\u003e, Riverstone Kitchen is a must-visit. The gardens, tended year-round, supply a bounty of vegetables, herbs, and fruits that inspire every dish. Dine in the rustic elegance of a converted warehouse beside the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1150\"\u003eiconic Riverstone Castle\u003c\/strong\u003e and enjoy a menu that changes with the seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1200\" data-end=\"1433\"\u003ePerfect for \u003cstrong data-start=\"1212\" data-end=\"1235\"\u003eculinary travellers\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"1237\" data-end=\"1257\"\u003eslow food lovers\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"1263\" data-end=\"1287\"\u003eeco-conscious diners\u003c\/strong\u003e, Riverstone Kitchen offers not just a meal but an experience — one that’s deeply connected to the land, the seasons, and the soul of North Otago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1200\" data-end=\"1433\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.riverstonekitchen.co.nz\/reservations\"\u003eBook your table now!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Whats on Oamaru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47063666491614,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/Bevan-19.jpg?v=1751963031"},{"product_id":"cycle-journeys","title":"Cycle Journeys","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"299\" data-end=\"353\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"353\"\u003eCycle Journeys – Alps 2 Ocean Ōamaru Day Rides\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"549\"\u003eExperience the final coastal section of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"399\" data-end=\"427\"\u003eAlps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail\u003c\/strong\u003e with a relaxed, self-paced \u003cstrong data-start=\"455\" data-end=\"474\"\u003eŌamaru day ride\u003c\/strong\u003e designed for visitors wanting an active but achievable outdoor experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"551\" data-end=\"878\"\u003eThese day rides explore some of the most scenic and historically rich parts of North Otago, combining countryside trails, limestone landscapes, heritage features, and coastal finishes. Routes are carefully chosen to suit a wide range of abilities, making this a popular option for couples, small groups, and confident families.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"880\" data-end=\"1228\"\u003eDepending on the ride option selected, cyclists may travel through quiet rural roads, former railway corridors, dramatic limestone formations, and tunnels, before finishing near Ōamaru’s harbour and historic precinct. Some routes include shuttle transfers to the starting point, allowing riders to enjoy predominantly downhill or easy-grade riding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1230\" data-end=\"1523\"\u003eBikes, helmets, and essential gear are provided, and riders are given clear instructions and route information so they can enjoy the trail at their own pace. These experiences are ideal for those who want to enjoy a section of the Alps 2 Ocean without committing to the full multi-day journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1525\" data-end=\"1580\"\u003eThis experience is well suited to visitors looking for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1583\" data-end=\"1618\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1583\" data-end=\"1618\"\u003eThings to do in Ōamaru outdoors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1621\" data-end=\"1647\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1621\" data-end=\"1647\"\u003eAlps 2 Ocean day rides\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1650\" data-end=\"1689\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1650\" data-end=\"1689\"\u003eScenic cycling experiences in Otago\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1692\" data-end=\"1741\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1692\" data-end=\"1741\"\u003eActive travel without extreme fitness demands\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1743\" data-end=\"1953\"\u003eWhether you’re ticking off part of a famous New Zealand cycle trail or simply looking for a memorable way to explore the region, these Ōamaru day rides offer a rewarding blend of nature, history, and fresh air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1955\" data-end=\"1971\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1955\" data-end=\"1971\"\u003eGood to know\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1974\" data-end=\"2005\"\u003eBike hire and helmet included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2008\" data-end=\"2056\"\u003eShuttle transfers available on selected routes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2059\" data-end=\"2099\"\u003eSuitable for a range of fitness levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2102\" data-end=\"2129\"\u003eAdvance booking recommended\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Cycle Journeys","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47802185580766,"sku":null,"price":1659.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/08396.jpg?v=1767821136"},{"product_id":"oamaru-penguins-daytime-guided-tours","title":"Ōamaru Penguins  - Daytime Guided Tours","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"485\" data-start=\"277\"\u003eExplore the world of the little blue penguin during daylight hours at the \u003cstrong data-end=\"412\" data-start=\"351\"\u003eŌamaru Blue Penguin Colony Daytime Penguin Discovery Tour\u003c\/strong\u003e — an educational and relaxed wildlife experience in the heart of Ōamaru.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1072\" data-start=\"487\"\u003eThis self-guided daytime experience begins at the Colony’s Discovery Centre, where engaging displays and expert interpretation explain the unique life cycle, behaviour, and conservation of Kororā, the world’s smallest penguin species. From there, visitors can explore the colony’s protected nesting area, viewing penguin habitat up close and learning how these remarkable birds are cared for when they’re not out at sea. Daytime visits offer the chance to move at your own pace, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of penguin conservation in a calm, family-friendly setting.\u003cstrong data-end=\"1325\" data-start=\"1309\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oamaru Penguins","offers":[{"title":"Adult","offer_id":47863025500382,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Child","offer_id":47863025533150,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/2187\/9774\/files\/2E9A3887.jpg?v=1769051547"}],"url":"https:\/\/whatsonaotearoa.nz\/collections\/highlights.oembed","provider":"What's on Aotearoa","version":"1.0","type":"link"}