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 darker side of ÅŒamaru's history. (See more details on the theme below.)
The full programme will be available to view here in July/August, so be sure to check back later.
Remember, you can stay up to date with the latest news and announcements by subscribing to our newsletter and social media pages.
​
And if you're keen to host an event or would like to get involved in any other way, please get in touch.
A wave of excitement is building in ÅŒamaru - this year’s Celebration is going to be quite the scandal!
Stay tuned.
.
Welcome
.jpg)
.jpg)
Experience the magic of the ÅŒamaru Heritage Celebrations, where the town brings the Victorian era back to life in all its splendour.
​
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.
​
There'll be plenty to see and do, whether you enjoy dressing up or not.
​
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.
​
And don't miss the spectacular Grand Street Parade! It's a visual feast perfect for capturing unique photos.
​
For nighttime amusement, we have social dances and other fun evening events that go on into the late hours.
​​
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...
Oamaru Noir - Scoundrels, Secrets & Shadows!
Step beyond the charming facade of Victorian ÅŒamaru and uncover the darker 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
The full programme will be available to view here in July/August 2025
Join our Mailing List
Get the latest event updates and ticketing information.
The OVHC committee is enormously grateful to all our sponsors and partners for helping make last year's Celebrations possible.
