Long Weekend in Oamaru
For stunning vistas, bouldering, hiking, and quirky shops a short drive from Christchurch, head south to Oamaru and its surrounds.
CJ and I were ready for a weekend away after lockdown (we took this trip in August), and because Goldie wasn’t yet built out, we decided to treat ourselves to an Airbnb. With a narrow criteria of dog-friendly, reasonably priced, and with an outdoor bath, we stumbled upon a house in Duntroon and booked. We hoped we’d find things to do when we got there, and as the time got closer, we realised we landed on a hidden gem.
What to do
Lake Benmore Walk
The Lake Benmore walk quickly topped my favourite short walk list, thanks to a coworker’s suggestion. This hour and a half dog-friendly meander traverses through exotic forest and around the peninsula before jutting out into Lake Benmore. Pictures don’t do it justice - just go.
Note - this track is currently closed (6 November 2020) due to logging operations. Check the DOC website for the most accurate updates.
Drive State Highway 83
The drive from Oamaru to Lake Benmore rivals some more popular drives close by, sans the crowds. Between the lakes, mountains, and - if you’re massive nerds like CJ and I - impressive dam systems, there’s a view at every turn. We looped around the lake and took Te Akatarawa Road back to the Aviemore Dam. There were many dead wallabies on the road, which I can only assume is not normal, but if it is, I guess that’s sort of morbidly unique? The drive is pretty, so just focus on that.
Elephant Rocks
If you’re a boulderer, a Chronicles of Narnia fan, or just like interesting landscapes, Elephant Rocks is a worthy stop. Tucked into a bit of farmland, this dreamy landscape was created millions of years ago by fossil-rich limestone eroding over time, leaving massive deposits in its wake. Perfect for bouldering, these rocks offer great climbing and epic scenery. You may even be climbing among the farmer’s sheep! Note that due to this being farmland, dogs are not allowed.
Walk Around the Victorian Precinct
Charming and historic, you’ll want to save time for a walk around the Victorian Precinct. With an ice cream shop, brewery, and plenty of shops, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, but with all the modern amenities.
Bushy Beach Track
If you’re keen for some wildlife that isn’t dead wallabies, head over to Bushy Beach Track for a quick jaunt to the lookout point. You may see kekeno (fur seals) and hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins) from your birds-eye view, and you may not. But if you don’t, the beach is pretty and you only walked ten minutes, so what’s the big deal?
Where we stayed
The Constable’s Cottage is a quaint self-contained cottage in Duntroon that really wows in person. The current owners (Rachel and her husband) have spent years piecing together the former constable’s cottage history, highlighting stories in a three-ring binder and hanging photos of past residents around the cottage.
One room and super cosy, we were greeted with a tiny bottle of bubbles, chocolates, and a sweet note of well wishes from the owners. We relished in the simplicity of the space, delighted in the fact that the kitchen was a few pitter-patters away from the bed, and despite being a cold night, the heater quickly warmed the room.
The next day we explored the outdoor garden, completely fenced off and dreamy for pups. The outdoor bath - the reason we booked - required a small fee, but well worth it for the nearly full day soak in the peaceful, private garden. Rachel and her husband drew the bath for us, which added to the spa-like experience. I highly recommend a night soak to view the stars.
The Constable’s Cottage felt worlds away, and between the fully fenced-off yard and simple home, it was both cosy and relaxing. The kitchen was perfect for coffee, breakfast, and preparing a small dinner, and the Duntroon pub is just a five-minute walk away. Rachel was lovely, easy to communicate with, and allowed for a private experience, despite the cottage being next to her home.
Where to eat
Scotts Brewery
Scott’s Brewery was our first stop, and we opted for their generous flights and gluten-free pizzas (they also specialise in gluten-free beers, but have regular ones, too). We savoured the flavours of both, and bought a rigger of Smokey Joe smoked red ale, and people watched on the outdoor lawn. With a great view of the historic precinct and a stone’s throw from the ocean, Scotts is an obvious local favourite for a Friday night.
Tees Street Cafe
Before heading out Sunday morning, we stopped at Tees Street Cafe for breakfast. Located adjacent to their fine dining restaurant Cucina, Tees Street offers lighter fare with an emphasis on health and flavours. I opted for the huevos rancheros, which didn’t disappoint and savoured their coffee on their outdoor, dog-friendly patio. The decor inside was cute, and I almost wished we could go back again sans pooch for round two.
Duntroon Hotel
The Duntroon Hotel may not be Instagram-worthy, but I hardly care when plates of nachos and Speight’s on tap are served in a dog-friendly dining room. Frankly, it’s hard to beat a massive pub meal and a few pints after a long day outdoors, and with Constable’s Cottage just up the road, it was an easy decision for Saturday night dinner.
There’s plenty I’ve missed, but that just means I’ll be heading back soon. People often associate Oamaru with it’s claim to fame - Steampunk Capital of the World. This is evident when strolling through the Victorian Precinct or if you drive past the Steampunk Museum, but otherwise, you’d have no idea. If you’re into that - awesome, go - and if you’re not, still go, because there’s plenty of other things to love about this lovely town.