DESTINATION

From its charming Victorian heritage to the sheer scenic beauty of the Waitaki Whitestone Aspiring Global Geopark, reasons never cease for visiting Waitaki. Whether it’s a weekend rendezvous, mid-week break or a cheeky staycation, you’ll be able to step back into the past while getting your fix of the luxuries today.

Designed in 1889 by renowned Ōamaru architects Forrester and Lemon, Pen-y-bryn’s elegance is infused with plush, modern comforts. You don’t have to go far for a sweet dining experience, as many an ingredient is grown right in the boutique lodge’s gardens. Sitting quietly atop Holmes Hill, you can revel in the privacy and the fact it’s only a short trip down to the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony –watch the cutest residents come ashore every evening.

If you’ve ever wanted to spend the night in another era, The Criterion Hotel will give you a good hint at what the 1900s were like, but with modern comforts! The iconic hotel is the gateway to Ōamaru’s Victorian precinct, New Zealand’s best-preserved Victorian streetscape, which boasts art galleries, quirky shops, and a thriving café scene. Built in 1877 by Forrester and Lemon, the Criterion Hotel has its fair share of stories – from the spooky to the sweet. Go no further to experience the good old days.

Travellers with a sweet tooth will take joy in spending the night in The Old Confectionery. Formally Rice’s Confectionery, the boutique lodgings opened in July 2020, and it offers two striking bedroom apartments. Situated in the heart of the seaside town, within walking distance to the waterfront and historic precinct, it’s the best place to base yourself if you’re a cyclist finishing your Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail adventures.

Built in 1861, Casa Nova House features on the earliest plans before Ōamaru was even chartered. Now a boutique bed and breakfast with Category 1 status from Heritage New Zealand, this is a dreamy destination unto itself. Whimsically decorated with furniture you can sink into, this B&B is where you’ll want to go for a little R&R. The unique rooms look over the gardens and provide sweet views of seasonal beauty.

Brimming with historical treasures and trinkets, Poshtel has 15 sweet rooms, all with different themes. From fly fishing to Antarctic exploration, and farming, the eclectic rooms embrace each theme right down to the lamps and toilet roll holders. It’s an ideal getaway for history buffs and those last out the door of any museum. Poshtel is also home to the Reef Gallery, which specialises in New Zealand and Pacific art.

Outside of Ōamaru, perched high in the branches overlooking the dramatic Hakataramea Valley, lies Nest Tree Houses. This luxury treehouse experience is a recent addition to the district. Here, it’s easy to calm your body and your mind. Surrounded by nature, you might feel like the only people on the planet! You can take in the sweet country air while roaming the farm or sit back and relax in the cedar sauna and private bathtub.

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For as long as there have been people in the area, Caroline Bay has been a place for gathering. From kai moana to whaling, to shipping, concerts, and carnivals. Even local wildlife, our kororā (penguins) and Hector’s dolphins, choose to call this place home. Timaru City was built around this beautiful beach reserve, which means you can explore the heritage and culture all within easy walking distance. Take a coastal walk over ancient lava flows, check out the beautiful Edwardian buildings, explore the ancient art galleries of Aotearoa with Te Ana, and admire contemporary art in an Edwardian mansion – all while stopping for outstanding food and retail therapy, of course.

Timaru’s Landing Services Building dates back to the 1870s. It was used to land (or bring ashore) goods and people moored in Timaru harbour.Today, the beautifully restored building houses Timaru’s Information Centre, Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre, The Speights Ale House, and Street Food Kitchen. This area is a hub for wining and dining, and it springs into life on a Saturday morning with the Timaru Artisan Farmers Market.

Stafford Street is Timaru’s ‘high street’, with fabulous shops and eateries. The streetscape is Edwardian, so look up, and you’ll see beautiful historic buildings. After a devasting fire ravaged the mainly wooden commercial centre in December 1868, a council bylaw ruled that all new buildings in the CBD had to be constructed of masonry. As such, the main street is frozen in time. The pretty streetscape gradually winds up to fabulous cafés and restaurants on The Bay Hill overlooking the iconic Caroline Bay.

Dashing Rocks is a favourite walk for locals, given its coastal views and proximity to eateries. Start with brunch, or finish with sunset drinks at the fabulous row of eateries at the Bay Hill. Set off from beautiful Caroline Bay. Keep an eye out for the coastal wildlife, including a pod of Hector’s dolphins, penguins, whales, seals, and sea lions. The one-hour loop walk will have you wandering past a historic lighthouse and over ancient lava flows, which form the fantastic-looking Dashing Rocks.

The South Canterbury Museum offers an exciting portal into the natural heritage and history of the South Canterbury region. It’s a fantastic place for all ages to explore. It runs popular programmes and events over the school holidays, including the Explorers Club. Upstairs, the exhibits include theprophet Te Maiharoa’sgreenstone mere and a working ‘Spacies’ machine from the 80s! If museums are your thing, there are 11 to explore in Timaru District, including five specialist vintage car and machinery museums.

Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre in Timaru is home to the most significant collection of ancient Māori Rock Art in New Zealand. The people at Te Ana are the kaitiaki (guardians) of eight tribal taonga (treasures), cut from their sites over a hundred years ago and now returned home to the centre and their people. Following an hour-long tour of the centre, you have the option to travel to the archaeological site – only accessible with a Ngāi Tahu guide.

The Aigantighe Art Gallery was established in 1956 and occupies an Edwardian mansion built in 1905. It’s home to an extensive permanent collection of New Zealand and international art. You can wander through the sculpture garden and head into the gallery to view featured works from its permanent collection or one of the feature exhibitions. The gallery is open every day, except Mondays, and admission is free. Get inspired, and get excited at the Aigantighe!