Excursion Oamaru & moeraki boulders tour at Timaru

Explore the evolution of the South Island during this memorable, full-day sightseeing excursion to Oamaru and the Moeraki Boulders.

Oamaru, Historic Buildings, Shops, Galleries, Traditional Crafts, Victorian Streetscapes

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive to Oamaru. Oamaru has a rich history and proud heritage, enriched by the passionate and perhaps quirky locals. Upon arrival and following a comfort stop, explore the historic buildings of Oamaru, along with shops, galleries and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemisphere's most complete Victorian streetscapes and 19th-century architecture.

Moeraki Boulders, Morning Tea, Free Time

Next, re-board your coach and drive to the Moeraki Boulders, a group of large spherical 'stones' on Koekohe Beach near Moeraki on New Zealand's Otago coast. These boulders are actually concretions that have been exposed through shoreline erosion from coastal cliffs, and are among the most fascinating and popular attractions on the South Island. Upon arrival, enjoy morning tea and some free time to explore the boulders at your leisure.

Lunch, Flower & Vegetable Gardens, Riverstone Country Gift Shop

Leaving the boulders, re-board your coach and begin the drive back towards Timaru. En route, a stop is made for lunch at the award-winning restaurant, Riverstone Kitchen. After lunch, take a stroll through the vast flower and vegetable gardens, and explore the Riverstone Country Gift Shop, which overflows with homewares, giftware, kitchen equipment, jewellery, toys, and lots more.

Dot's Castle, Moat, Turrets, Dungeons, Suits of Armour

See Dot's Castle from the gardens at Riverstone. This building was Dot's dream from childhood, and features a moat, turrets, dungeons and suits of armour. It is Dot and Neil's home, so it's not open to the public, but you can admire the castle's architecture from the gardens. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Oamaru, Historic Buildings, Moeraki Boulders, Morning Tea, Lunch, Riverstone Kitchen Restaurant and Country Gift Shop, Gardens, Dot's Castle

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 875 yards (about 800 metres), at times over uneven, wooden and sandy surfaces, with three-five steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps from the road to the beach near the Moeraki Boulders. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. The coach supply in Timaru is very limited, coaches used are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of larger New Zealand ports.