Are you after a holiday that will keep the little ones busy, appeal to the teens and entice the parents all while making worthwhile memories? Then make sure to add Waitaki to your itinerary these school holidays.
With endless outdoor walks and epic biking tracks, quirky attractions and eateries and home to the world’s smallest penguins, Waitaki really does have it all! Soak up those last days of sun by rolling out the tent and setting up camp at the peaceful seaside to immerse yourself in some classic family-fun!
Moeraki Boulders Holiday Park is a great option for families looking to create a memorable getaway with endless activities at your fingertips. The unique Kiwi beach camping ground is a stone’s throw from the seaside, offering swimming, kayaking or fishing! You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the ahoaho (Hector’s dolphins) in the bay and hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins) at the Katiki lighthouse. If you’re wanting some downtime, take a stroll to the nearby Moeraki Boulders, a must-see if you’re in the area.
The Kids Bike Park in Ōamaru has got you covered for helping the young ones burn off energy. The track caters to all ages and cycling abilities, even those learning to ride!
For those after a slower-paced outdoor adventure, the region’s walking tracks are a great way to explore the area while taking in the beautiful scenery. Ōtemātātā Wetlands, Kurow Wetlands and the Duntroon Wetland Walk all take less than an hour to complete, perfect for walking with little ones, while offering exceptional views and wildlife activity.
If you’re more of an indoors person, the hidden gems in Ōamaru will not disappoint! Whitestone City offers a glimpse of how the town would have looked in its early days. Scattered with displays, merchants and even people in Victorian-style costumes, this quirky heritage attraction will leave you and your family in awe.
Speaking of unique attractions, make sure to check out Steampunk HQ, an interactive museum flickering with retro-futuristic sci-fi art, movies, sculptures and sound. It explores what the Victorian era would have looked like if it was just a little mad, but don’t let us spoil too much, go and check it out for yourself!
After all that excitement your belly will surely be rumbling. Lucky for you, the Ōamaru waterfront will have you spoilt for choice with a fantastic selection of bakeries, cafés and pubs. Del Mar Eatery and Beach Bar offers a range of delicious dishes with something for everyone in the family from fresh seafood to burgers, pizzas and house made gelato.
Once you’ve finished your meal (or dessert) head across the road to the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony, an absolute must-see experience! Create unforgettable memories by booking an evening session to watch the world’s smallest penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing. These tiny seabirds stand at just 30cm tall and will have the whole family captured by their cuteness.
If you find your plans interrupted by rain, then head down to Harbour Street for some family friendly activities to keep the kids entertained! Here you’ll find ‘The Robot Man’ (Martin Horspool) who creates quirky characters from discarded items he collects from kerb sides and antique shops. Pop your head in to experience Martin’s gallery of wonder, we promise you won’t regret it!
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-rush, a historic trip to the Victorian era or a blissful beachside getaway, Waitaki will have the kids bragging about their unforgettable trip down South to all their schoolmates.
