Waiareka Junction Travel Guide
Oamaru
Visit Waiareka Junction
Popular places to visit
Steampunk HQ
Try out interactive displays, marvel at intricate creations, get lost in a light show or just have some bizarre fun at this art gallery with a difference.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Explore the great outdoors at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, a lovely green space in Oamaru. Amble around the area's marina or experience its museums.
Oamaru Harbour
Explore the waterfront in Oamaru with a trip to Oamaru Harbour. Amble around the area's waterfront or experience its museums.
Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct in Oamaru. Stroll along the marina or experience the area's museums.
Grainstore Gallery
Delve inside the minds of a group of local artists as you explore the curiosities of this fascinating gallery, housed within a former Victorian grain store.
Forrester Gallery
In Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct is a magnificent historical building that houses a highly regarded art gallery where you will find eclectic exhibitions and exciting events.
Things to do
Oamaru: Penguins Evening Viewing Ticket
Top hotels in Waiareka Junction
Brydone Hotel Oamaru
Excellent location. Bed was very comfortable. The room was clean. The toilettries were of nice quality and contributing to a charitable cause. I appreciate that. Due to our schedule, we did not try the restaurant. Overall, we were very happy and had no issues.
Reviewed on 21 Jan 2026
Oamaru Motor Lodge
The room was spotless and very comfortable. Check in was quick and easy. Despite being on SH1 there was no noise in the evening and we slept well.
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Criterion Boutique Hotel
Very small room for two people. Shared bathrooms ok. Very quirky and historical. A nice adventure
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025
Poshtel
We had a great stay lovely clean room and helpful staff
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
289 Midway Motel
Great location
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
The Mews Oamaru
Good standard motel. Spotless. 10-15 minute walk to central Oamaru
Reviewed on 4 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Waiareka Junction
Holmes Hill
Holmes Hill might not have many top sights, but Oamaru Gardens and Steampunk HQ are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Ardgowan
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Ardgowan and surrounding area, you can visit North Otago Museum and Steampunk HQ.
Historic Precinct
While visiting Historic Precinct, you might make a stop by sights like Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct and Steampunk HQ.
South Hill
If you're spending some time in South Hill, Oamaru Harbour and Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct are top sights worth seeing.
Weston
When in Weston, you can plan a visit to North Otago Museum and Steampunk HQ, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Oamaru North
Oamaru North might not have many top sights, but Whitestone Cheese Factory and North Otago Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
