Sunsets are beautiful in Oamaru. Sunrises too. It surprised me much as I continue my travels around New Zealand that gorgeous sun isn’t that common everywhere. This was taken at Oamaru steampunk playground. There was a gigantic wooden hamster wheel—you know, those you see in hamster cages. I got on and jumped off with my heart beating real fast, wondering how is it for kids as it turned super fast! Also, dizzy. Laughed aloud to myself and sat at a bench. The skies glowed.
In Oamaru is the tourist hotspot, Oamaru Blue Penguins Colony. Just starting out on my longest backpacking trip ever, I didn’t think I’d fork out 30nzd for watching penguins. So I was told that we can spot penguins in Oamaru for free. For free! Ooh. And seals too.
That’s Sandra, from Germany. She hitchhiked a lot and shared with me excitedly her experience. I was inspired and did so a couple of times after, the first being from here in Oamaru! That’s another story save for later.
Sandra and I went seal-hunting at the breakwater. There was a seal who veered off their usual grounds and was lying on the spectator stand. He jumped up and hastily glided back to the rocks, somewhat guilty we reckoned.
We popped by the Sunday Market too, which size was too tiny for the hype we’ve created around it, and made Sandra laugh. We stayed only for 10 minutes but felt happy and festive, no good reason needed.
Sandra had to go and we parted ways. She walked me to a spot she had seen penguins waddling by. I walked around town from there, and into bookbinder’s shop, craft shops, exhibitions. I especially loved Victorian Street.
Stopped for a beer at Scotts Brewery Co. — oh, why not. Crafted and brewed in Oamaru, the dark beer is deliciously rich! I’d have doubles if I wasn’t feeling a tad woozy.
Also, visited the Steampunk HQ because all the locals say “please go visit.” I’ve finally experienced enjoying art without prior expectations, by visiting the exhibits twice.
I booked for a night at Oamaru but stayed for four. My favourite memory beside sheep-shearing, was the evening walks on the harbour. And it was either to wait for penguin-spotting hour, or simply staring out into the great abyss.
NASHENA 