The Foodie Guide to Oamaru

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Food Tours and Experiences

Save some room for some of the gastronomical experiences waiting in Oamaru, such as a cheese factory tour at Whitestone Cheese. One of New Zealand’s most popular artisan cheese brands, Whitestone Cheese offers comprehensive tours of their factory (see on Viator and Tripadvisor) with specially-made viewing platforms and windows into the factory. You’ll get to try some of the good stuff along the way, be treated to a generous platter in the cafe and go home with a goody bag! Enhance the experience by pairing your cheese platter with local wines in the cheese and wine tasting experience (see on Viator or Tripadvisor).

Speaking of wine, take a road trip up the Waitaki Valley (State Highway 83) and you’ll come across one of New Zealand’s newer wine regions. The Waitaki Valley wine region is fed by waters draining from New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook, where adventurous winemakers have set up vineyards across the limestone, greywacke and schist soils. Stop by the River-T Estate and the nearby Ostler Wines cellar door for tastings paired with indulgent platters. Note that they have seasonal opening hours.

In the heart of Omarau, the Victorian Precinct hides a wealth of foodie experiences, including two breweries! Take your pick from the New Zealand craft beer of Scott’s Brewing Co. with beer served alongside pizzas or Craftwork Brewery for their Belgian-style ales. You’ll also find local homemade preserves and other high-quality artisan goods at the Riverstone Larder, while fresh European-style bread and Kiwi savoury pies are a must-try at the Harbour Street Bakery. Find out more about the breweries and few other food experiences in the 7 Things to Do in Oamaru for Foodies.

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The Best Restaurants in Oamaru

While we’ve mentioned some of the breweries, cheeseries and bakeries in the Victorian Precinct to check out, other dining experiences worth booking a table for include Cucina (1 Tees Street). Indulge in artful plates of Italian and South American cuisine made with local and seasonal fare among a generous display of plants to give that alfresco feeling.

For breakfast or lunch, check out Tees St Cafe (3 Tees Street) housed in what was a historic bookstore and drapery. Try some healthy treats, like overnight bircher with poached apples and homemade kombucha, or opt for something from their gourmet cabinet collection.

It’s also worth a quick trip out of town to the Riverstone Kitchen (1431 Glenavy-Hilderthorpe Road) for their creative menu of contemporary European cuisine. Meals are made from fruit and veggies grown in their on-site gardens, which you’re free to explore, while the Riverstone Castle and lake offer a stunning backdrop. 

Other honourable mentions include Star and Garter (9 Itchen Street), Fat Sallys (84 Thames Street), The Last Post Pub & Restaurant (12 Thames Street) and RedRobin Coffee (415 Thames Highway).

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Alternative Things to Do in Oamaru

After reading this foodie guide to Oamaru, it’s probably hard to believe that there’s more to do in this South Island town than eat and drink! Believe it or not, there are other appeals to the town that you may want to add to the itinerary. Some of the other things to do in Oamaru include:

• Watch penguins waddling across Bushy Beach
• Step back in time at Whitestone City
• Check out an alternative reality at Steampunk HQ
• Tackle the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
• Visit the Moeraki Boulders
• Watch the penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
• Go horse riding along the Waianakarua River
• Ride the Oamaru steam train…

… And much more! Check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Oamaru for more information on each activity and more.