Nature and Wildlife

Nature and Wildlife

Penguin Colonies

Oamaru is home to two colonies of penguins, Blue Penguins (also known as Fairy Penguins), the smallest of the penguins and Yellow-Eyed Penguins, which are among the rarest. Visits to these colonies can be arranged by your hosts, who can also provide you with binoculars and cushions for use at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. For more information on the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, click here.

Moeraki Boulders

Nearby Moeraki is home to the iconic beachside boulders, spheres of stone strew along the waterfront just outside of the picturesque fishing village. While here, you can also venture toward Moeraki lighthouse and gain an unparalleled view of their Yellow-Eyed Penguins and other wildlife, and a further five minutes will take you to Shag Point and its resident fur seal population.

Vanished World Heritage Trail

The Vanished World Heritage Trail is a self-guided trail that allows the visitor to see numerous fossils and geological formations that give you a feeling of "deep time". A drive along this trail will take you all through the Waitaki District, from the seaside to the mountains, and offers a unique perspective on the area's changing landscape. For more information, visit the Vanished World website by clicking here.

Danseys Pass

Among the many beautiful drives in the area, Danseys Pass is certainly one of the most popular. Easily done as a day trip from Pen-y-bryn, a drive along Danseys Pass will take you to the old Central Otago towns of Naseby and Ranfurly, as well as to Elephant Rocks and some Maori rock paintings.

Mt Cook/Aoraki and the Lakes

New Zealand's highest peak, Mt Cook, is easily reached from Oamaru, taking approximately two hours (with ample time to stop to photograph the stunning scenery along the way). Ohau, Lake Tekapo, Omarama and other holiday destinations of the Mt Cook area are all nearby and make an exceptional outing from Pen-y-bryn.

Gardens

Oamaru Public Gardens are reputedly among the finest in the land. In addition, a number of private gardens are available for viewing, by appointment.

 

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