Get Ready for the 2025 Celebrations!
We're excited to announce this year’s theme: ÅŒamaru Noir - Scoundrels, Secrets and Shadows - a journey into the dark and lesser-known side of ÅŒamaru's history. (See more details on the theme below.)
The full programme is now available to download.
Remember, you can stay up to date with any last-minute events added to the programme and the latest news by clicking on the News/Updates link below.
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Welcome
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Experience the magic of the ÅŒamaru Heritage Celebrations, where the town brings the Victorian era back to life in all its splendour.
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Hundreds of visitors, many in Victorian costumes, flock to enjoy a variety of events set against the backdrop of the town's beautifully preserved Victorian Precinct and impressive limestone buildings.
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There'll be plenty to see and do, whether you enjoy dressing up or not.
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You can show off your Victorian outfits while sipping tea at the Café Promenade or basking in the elegance of the Garden Party. Explore heritage sites, join guided walks, and attend a variety of fascinating talks and exhibitions.
Plus, you can watch or even take part in the Victorian Fashion Show, cheer on penny-farthing racers, enjoy impromptu street performers and singalongs, and so much more.
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And don't miss the spectacular Grand Street Parade! It's a visual feast perfect for capturing unique photos.
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For nighttime amusement, we have social dances and other fun evening events that go on into the late hours.
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So, escape the 21st Century for a few days and enjoy an unforgettable Victorian-inspired weekend celebration, unlike anything else in New Zealand!
Get Involved
More about this year's theme...
ÅŒamaru Noir - Scoundrels, Secrets & Shadows!
Step beyond the charming facade of Victorian ÅŒamaru and uncover the lesser-known side of its past.
Behind the grand limestone buildings and lace-draped windows, a scandalous story unfolds – one of scoundrels, secrets, and shadows!
From the hush-hush world of prohibition and hidden speakeasies to the risque whispers of the "forbidden trade," you’ll hear tales of tragedy, mystery, chilling crimes, and the unspeakable.
We’re peeling back the prim and proper Victorian layers to reveal a side of ÅŒamaru’s history that your grandmother didn’t dare tell you. There’s much to uncover, and you may even take part in events that showcase and bring its more scandalous moments to life.
So don’t let the pretty streets fool you - ÅŒamaru has a deliciously dark past, and this year’s theme is all about diving into it.
Forget the sepia tones - this is ÅŒamaru Noir, where history gets a scandalous twist!
2025 Events Programme
Here’s a small selection of what’s on...
Victorian Garden Party
14 Nov, 2.30pm-3.30pm – Free
Madame Blayde's Fashion Parade
15 Nov, 3.30pm-4.30pm
Tour the Old Cemetery Grounds
14 & 15 Nov, 1.45pm 3.45pm
ÅŒamaru Noir Soiree - Phantom of the Opera
12 Nov, 6pm
Rascals Ruckus
15 Nov, 8pm-Late
The Curse of the Raven
14 Nov, 6pm-6.50pm
ÅŒamaru Noir Express
13 Nov, 6.30pm-8pm
Secrets and Shadowy Tales Walk, with Mike Gray
13 & 14 Nov, 11am, 2pm & 4pm
15 Nov, 2pm & 5pm
Tour the Junction Hotel
13 Nov, 3.30pm-5pm14 Nov, 4pm-5.30pm 15 Nov, 2pm-3.30pm
Download the digital version of the brochure to view the full programme
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Get the latest event updates and ticketing information.
The OVHC committee is enormously grateful to all our sponsors and partners for helping make this year's Celebrations possible.
