Hello overworked humans. Stop wringing your hands into a worry! When you’re going through the motions it can be easy to forget to take a much needed moment for yourself. Sometimes a vacation is not just about physically getting away from it all, but stepping back, and taking a mental vacation too.

From soaking up the natural beauty in the district to a cheese platter (this counts as self-care!), the Waitaki is the perfect place to treat yourself—and we’ve rounded up ten of the best ways to do so.

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The feeling of freedom you get from atop a horse is only amplified being surrounded by lakes, rugged high country, and mountains. The door of possibility is thrown wide open. Adventure Horse Trekking NZ conduct multiday journeys on different trails to suit different abilities, so settle into a saddle and get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure.

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Nothing invokes your senses more than a glass of wine at the end of a long week. Go on you deserve to raise a glass as the sun sets on River-T’s vineyard and the mountains of Kurow.

Op shopping in Ōamaru

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One of the best ways to show yourself a whole lot of love is to pore over the many, many op shops in the seaside town of Ōamaru. You’re sure to spark new life in your wardrobe. From retro finds to kiwiana, the second-hand shops here are some of the best in the country. Plus, you’ll get the endorphin rush of retail therapy while remaining environmentally friendly.

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Soak up Ōmārama’s mountain views and restore your soul at Hot Tubs Ōmārama in a private eco-friendly healthy spa that’s filled with fresh mountain water.

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Recharge on your bike! Spend 4-7 days taking a slow travel holiday across the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail or simply bike a section for a fun day out.

Cucina

Forget doing dishes (for a night at least). Dinner at Cucina is a decadent affair you should indulge in at least once. The popular restaurant in Ōamaru offers locally sourced dishes from 55 day aged rib eye to Argentinian Churros in a menu that reflects South American heritage and culture.

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If your hipster heart cries out for a craft beer you can’t go past the nano-brewery Craftwork in the heart of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct where hand-crafted Belgian-style ales go hand in hand with biersticks and pickled eggs.

Art Galleries in Ōamaru

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After a little quiet contemplation? Head to one of the art galleries within Ōamaru to take in the skill and the sentiment—you might even end up taking something home to your walls!

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Embrace a tailored experience that will leave you relaxed, de-stressed, and nourished across your mind, body, and soul! When you’re not stretching your limbs at a Waitaki Wellness Retreat you can do something new in the most awe-inspiring district in New Zealand.

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Cheese is a take-your-time delight, so you’ll feel compelled to sit back and savour the award-winning flavours that Whitestone Cheese has to offer. Take a morning tour and learn how your favourite food is made or buy yourself a cheese platter and enjoy!