Pre-Celebrations lead up events 2015
Penny Farthing and Vintage Cycle Tour
This year the Penny Farthing and Vintage Cycle tour will wend its way from Arundel in Mid-South Canterbury to the French Settlement of Akaroa (via the magnificent Erewhon Station where we will be treated to Clydesdale wagon rides amidst incredibly spectacular Alpine Valleys.) The tour is from 6th-11th October which is a month earlier than usual so that it coincides with the weekend of festivities in Akaroa commemorating 175 years since the arrival of the first French Settlers. We will take part in parades and picnics as part of our weekend, so it should be a good opportunity to spread the word about the upcoming Heritage Celebrations in Oamaru and allow people time to plan their adventures in Wonderland!
Oamaru Stone Symposium
Venture down to Friendly Bay and experience the wonder that is Oamaru. For 3 weeks this fantastic venue will host a colourful cast of characters carving the iconic Oamaru limestone. Through a 2 tonne block our 20 sculptors will celebrate and share their art, our community and Alice in Wonderland…
Carving 24th October – 7th November
Exhibition 8th November – 15th November 2015
Oamaru Friendly Bay, Historic Precinct.
Alice in Wonderland Comes to the Heritage Schools Programme
During the weeks of 27-30 October and 2-6 November
Schools from the greater Waitaki and Timaru Districts are invited to book onto a choice of four activities designed to celebrate Alice in Wonderland and showcase the special Victorian heritage of Oamaru and the surrounding area. All the activities are hands-on and include Alice-themed Creative Crafts at the North Otago Art Society, a theatrical experience Down the Rabbit Hole at the Oamaru Opera House, making flour for the jam tarts at Clarks Flour Mill, stepping through the looking glass back to Life on the Victorian farm at Totara Estate and having a go at carving Oamaru stone at the Stone Symposium. Students can also dress the part to join in the fun further!
Bookings essential. Contact Totara Estate by phone on 03 433 1269 or email totaraestate@heritage.org.nz
Up-cycle an Ex Library Book - Wonderland Competition
The Oamaru Public Library would like to invite you to up-cycle one of our old, discarded library books and turn it into a work of art! To celebrate Alice in Wonderland 150 years and all things Heritage, we have chosen a Wonderland theme. You must be a library card holder and the entry fee is $1. You may pick up your book and entry form from the Oamaru Public Library, August 1st onwards.
There are four (4) categories you can enter:
Under 12, 12-17, 18+ and Group
Opens 10am, 1st August. Closes 5pm, 30th October
Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street, Oamaru. Cost: $1.00 per entry.
Daily and continuous events 2015
Forrester Gallery - Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab
Wednesday 11 November – Sunday 15 November
Come visit the Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab. Meet Clematis Paniculata; have a conversation with Alice’s red rose and design your own floral creation.
Open daily. 10.30am - 4.30pm Admission free. Upstairs Galleries, Forrester Gallery
9 Thames Street. Ph: 03 433 0853
St Luke’s Historic Church
Open daily from Monday 9th November to Saturday 11th November. 10-30am - 3-30pm.
St Luke’s Historic Church with North Otago Floral Art Society
Display & ‘Weddings over 150 years’.
St Luke’s Church, Corner Itchen and Tees Streets. Gold coin donation.
Oamaru Steam and Rail Trip
Welcome aboard the locomotive which will take you from the Harbourside Station to the Quarry Siding in the harbour area and return.
Trips every 45 minutes from 11am Saturday and 10.30am Sunday
Adults $8, children $3, Family (2 adults 2 children) $20 return. Book at the station or i-Site Pedestrian access via steps from Itchen and Tees Streets.
Whitestone Walking Tours
Explore, discover, and experience the fascinating story behind the prosperous development of Victorian Oamaru through the eyes of a professional guide in period costume. Tours approximately 1 hour.
$30 per person. $45 couple, Children free. Book at the i-SITE.
Oamaru’s Top 10 Mini Golf 10am – 6pm
Even though golf was a men’s game, in 1867 The Ladies’ Putting Club of St. Andrews was formed as a members-only green for women golfers. Try your luck at Oamaru’s new Mini Golf course. An eighteen hole course designed around the local tourist attraction from the Waitaki. Each hole is allotted an information board about that attraction. Fun for everyone in the family.
$5 per person during heritage week. 11th-15th Nov. Return your score card with completed details to take part in the prize draw for $150 vouchers for Top 10 Accommodation and $50 petrol voucher.
Oamaru Top 10 Holiday Park Chelmer Street.
‘Alice’ at the Children’s Library
Wednesday 11 through to Friday 13 November
Times will vary according to audience numbers. Youth Librarian, Fiona, will give readings from ‘Alice’
Watch out for the Mad Hatter’s hat-making craft session. Details of date and time will be advised.
Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street.
Oamaru Opera House - White Rabbit Tours
Follow the White Rabbit on a backstage tour of Oamaru Opera House and learn all about the building’s history.
12pm daily tours from Thursday 12 November to Friday 13 November.
Cost is $3 per person, or $9 for families of four. Bookings from the Opera House ticket booth before the tour
Oamaru Opera House, 90 Thames Street. Ph: 433 0779.
Orore Point Garden
An invitation to visit a Private Coastal Garden by appointment.
Adults $6, Children free. Proceeds to NZ Charities
964 Wainakarua Rd, Kakanui Wainakarua Rd, Kakanui.
Ph: 03 439 5709 or email philiphamilton@xtra.co.nz
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice... the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun, Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street
Tickets $20 Adult. Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667
Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm.
Wednesday 11th November 2015
10am-4pm
Oamaru Steam and Rail Workshop
Venture behind the scenes into the workshop of steam and rail – the ultimate in a blokes’ shed. Come and see our steam engine loco being restored.
Entry by donation. Workshop on railway siding behind the Woolstore Complex
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm
10.30am-3.30pm
St Luke’s Historic Church.
Open daily.
10.30am-4.30pm
Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab
Come visit the Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab. Meet Clematis Paniculata; have a conversation with Alice’s red rose and design your own floral creation.
Open daily. 10.30am -4.30pm Admission free
Upstairs Galleries, Forrester Gallery. 9 Thames Street. Ph: 03 433 0853
12pm
White Rabbit Tours at the Oamaru Opera House
Follow the White Rabbit on a backstage tour of Oamaru Opera House and learn all about the building’s history.
12pm daily tours from Wednesday 11th to Thursday 12th November.
Cost is $3 per person, or $9 for families of four. Bookings from the Opera House ticket booth before the tour
Oamaru Opera House, 90 Thames Street. Ph: 433 0779
12.05pm
The Waitaki Valley Singer
Enjoy their first midday concert with conductor Wendy Eckhardt. Bring your lunch, tea and coffee provided.
Entry by gold coin donation. St Paul’s Church 5 Coquet Street
‘Alice’ at the Children’s Library
Times will vary according to audience numbers. Youth Librarian, Fiona, will give readings from ‘Alice’
Watch out for the Mad Hatter’s hat-making craft session. Details of date and time will be advised.
Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street
3pm-5pm
Oamaru Memorials
Join local historian Helen Stead as we visit war monuments of granite, marble & Oamaru stone; crosses beside memorial oaks; view quilt given to Nurse Isobel Clark & stand by VC recipient Donald Forrester Brown’s photo in Opera House. At 4pm we travel to Hall of Memories at Waitaki BHS where flags, stained glass, pennants tell of deeds of endeavour and sadness.
Meet at Opera House Foyer. Tickets $30. Book on this site or at the i-SITE
Scotts Alps 2 Ocean Charity Ride. 301km, 4 Days, 1 Amazing Trail – 11th-14th November
Scotts Alps 2 Ocean Charity Ride is a 4 day large group charity ride along the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. This is not a race - it’s a scenic ride for a good cause. Funds raised will be split 50/50 between designated charities and the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail to assist with ongoing maintenance and improvements to the trail. Come join us for an epic undertaking as we traverse from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. Register your team of cyclists and come join the adventure! Stay in local communities along the way, discover the attractions and scenery of the regions. The winning team will be the one that raises the most for charity.
To register visit www.alps2ocean.com
7.30pm
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice...the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun. Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street
Tickets $20 Adult. Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667
Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
Thursday 12th November 2015
10am
Tea and Stones
Come thru the rabbit hole and discover a magical tea party scene, set amongst the Oamaru Stone symposium sculpture exhibition. Enjoy a cuppa and cake beside the sea at the Mad Hatters Table, Play a game of croquet with flamingos and hedgehogs, play with the costumes and props and get your photo taken at the photo booth.
Open all day from 10am. Free entry (cost for food). Friendly Bay beside Steampunk Playground
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm
10.30am-11.30pm
Behind the Scenes at the Museum
Come on a ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour at the Museum and meet some of the characters from our collection.
$3 per person or $9 per family of four. North Otago Museum 60 Thames St. Ph: 03-433 0852
10.30am-4.30pm
Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab
Come visit the Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab. Meet Clematis Paniculata; have a conversation with Alice’s red rose and design your own floral creation.
Open daily. 10.30am -4.30pm Admission free. Upstairs Galleries, Forrester Gallery
9 Thames Street. Ph: 03 433 0853
10.30am-3.30pm
St Luke’s Historic Church
Open daily
10.45am
Toddler Time with ‘Alice’ at the Children’s Library
Join in for a dress-up version of the ‘Alice’ story using a digital book.
Admission free. Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street, Oamaru
‘Alice’ at the Children’s Library
Times will vary according to audience numbers. Youth Librarian, Fiona, will give readings from ‘Alice’
Watch out for the Mad Hatter’s hat-making craft session. Details of date and time will be advised.
Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street
12pm
White Rabbit Tours at the Oamaru Opera House
Follow the White Rabbit on a backstage tour of Oamaru Opera House and learn all about the building’s history.
12pm daily tours from Wednesday 11th to Thursday 12th November.
Cost is $3 per person, or $9 for families of four. Bookings from the Opera House ticket booth before the tour
Oamaru Opera House, 90 Thames Street. Ph: 433 0779
12.05pm
Forty Flying Fingers and The North Otago Women’s Club Choir
Music at St Paul’s church features four pianists at pianos with the North Otago Women’s Club Choir. Bring your lunch. Tea and coffee provided.
St Paul’s Church 5 Coquet Street. Gold coin donation.
2pm
Movie at the Limelight
Call in to select a film from times gone by and experience a Victorian treat.
Tickets $15 (seniors and students $10) from Limelight Cinema only, bookings preferred
www.limelight.co.nz Ph: 434 1077. Limelight Cinemas, 260 Thames Street.
3.30pm-4.45pm
Harbour Heritage Garden Party
Regale in the joys of an afternoon garden party complete with tea, damper, a witty recollection of the herbal and medicinal use of herbs in the Victorian homestead, and garden games for the children. Prizes and treats for children with Victorian Flower Fairy costumes. Tales from great gardeners of the Victorian age come alive!
Harbour Heritage Garden behind the Loan & Merc on Harbour Street.
5pm
Welcome to Wonderland – Grand Opening
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the official opening of the 2015 Victorian Heritage Celebrations. Your chance to mingle with friends from last year, meet the sponsors, and admire the costumes that have been created for this year’s theme. Enjoy some of the entertainment, including the Twin City Stompers playing a range of Victorian Jazz. A complimentary drink on arrival, and complimentary canapés will be served while you mingle. Further drinks available for purchase.
Tickets $10 Book on this site or at the i-SITE
Oamaru Opera House, Ink Box, 90 Thames Street.
6pm
Family Picnic in the Park
An evening for families to enjoy an evening picnic tea, with entertainment provided by Victoria Cooper Academy of Dance and other community groups.
Free Admission. Oamaru Public Gardens, Chelmer Street.
6pm
Trans-Antarctic Expedition an oral history
Join Jacqui Foley for an oral history with photos, of Trans-Antarctic Expedition including interviews with Ed Hillary.
Adventure Books, 7 Harbour Street. Free admission. Drinks and Nibbles Provided.
7.45pm
Twilight Snark Hunting Adventure
Capital! Steampunk presents an ambulatory reading of The Hunting of the Snark. Join us for Lewis Carroll’s epic Agony in Eight Fits as we explore the gardens of the historic Brookfield estate in search of the elusive Snark, then recover afterwards with robust refreshments served in the loggia.
A Ritchies bus will leave the Oamaru i-SITE 7.45pm, event will be starting at 8pm, returning at 9.30pm. But always remember, in Lewis Carroll’s own words, to beware the Jubjub and shun the frumious Bandersnatch.
Tickets: $20 all inclusive. Book on this site or at the i-SITE
7pm
An evening of Victorian period magic of ‘Uncle George’
Journey down the rabbit hole as Uncle George performs magic that bends time and bends the mind in a delightful display of original entertainment from the time of their Majesties Queen Victoria and King Edward. Great puzzlement lovingly restored & performed with a life time of practice. True Parlour magic from times past. Relax in the Rose Garden of wonderland with light refreshments.
Oamaru Opera House Ink Box 90 Thames Street
Tickets $25. Book on this site or at the i-Site.
7.30pm
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice...the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun. Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street
Tickets $20 Adult. Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667
Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz
Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
Friday 13th November 2015
8.30am-9.30am
Breakfast with the Walrus, the Carpenter and guests
Catch your train, travel to Portside, or meet us there and enjoy a full English breakfast, revel in the entertainment. The Walrus and the Carpenter both promise to be there but will the young oysters join in too….
Train departs Itchen Street station 8.15am and departs Portside 9.45ish to return to Itchen St.
Tickets $25 which includes your train ride and your breakfast. Book on this site or at the i-SITE
Portside Restaurant, Waterfront Road.
8:30am-3pm
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
We’re all mad here! So come and enjoy a very merry afternoon tea of tarts, cakes, strawberries and cream and all manner of wonderful things.
8:30am to 3pm, Friday 13 November at the Opera House Café & Bar. 90 Thames Street. Ph: 03 433 0779
9.30am-11.30am
The Royal Ball practice
For those who wish to learn or practice dances for this evening’s Ball.
Scottish Hall, 10 Tyne St, Gold coin donation
10am
Tea and Stones
Come thru the rabbit hole and discover a magical tea party scene, set amongst the Oamaru Stone symposium sculpture exhibition. Enjoy a cuppa and cake beside the sea at the Mad Hatters Table, Play a game of croquet with flamingos and hedgehogs, play with the costumes and props and get your photo taken at the photo booth.
Open all day from 10am. Admission free (cost for food) Friendly Bay beside steampunk Playground
10am-12pm
Of Ships, Sheep & Grain
From open Roadstead Oamaru’s Harbour welcomed migrants, stock & building materials from the 1840s, then exported wool, grain & frozen meat direct to London as breakwater & wharves built. From tents on the beach to Oamaru stone buildings for merchants, bankers & millers tell their history in nearby Harbour St. History with Helen Stead.
Meet at the Steam Crane in the Steampunk Playground Tickets $25
Book on this site or at the i-SITE
10am-12pm
Café Promenade
After the lovely breakfast at Portside with the Walrus and the Carpenter, spend the morning promenading in your finery along the streets of Oamaru enjoying the selection of delicacies on offer at Oamaru cafes and marvel at shops windows which have been decorated in heritage style.
10am-2pm
Elevenses with Mrs B
Call into the Early Settlers Hall to sample Wonderland treats from Mrs Beeton’s kitchen with a tea, coffee, or a small glass of madeira. Try your hand at Victorian parlour games or just relax and have a chat.
$5 per serving. Early Settlers’ Hall Severn Street just behind the Opera House
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm
10.30am-4.30pm
Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab
Come visit the Forrester Gallery Wonder Lab. Meet Clematis Paniculata; have a conversation with Alice’s red rose and design your own floral creation.
Open daily. 10.30am -4.30pm Admission free. Upstairs Galleries, Forrester Gallery
9 Thames Street. Ph: 03 433 0853
10.30pm-11.30pm
Behind the Scenes at the Museum
Come on a ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour at the Museum and meet some of the characters from our collection.
$3 per person or $9 per family of four. North Otago Museum 60 Thames Street. Ph: 433 0852.
10.30am-3.30pm
St Luke’s Historic Church - North Otago Floral Art Society Display and ‘Weddings over 150 years’
Gold coin donation. St Luke’s Church Itchen Street
‘Alice’ at the Children’s Library
Times will vary according to audience numbers. Youth Librarian, Fiona, will give readings from ‘Alice’
Watch out for the Mad Hatter’s hat-making craft session. Details of date and time will be advised.
Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street.
12.05pm
Variety Concert
A St Paul’s concert featuring local artists. Bring your lunch. Tea and coffee provided.
Gold coin donation. St Paul’s Church 5 Coquet Street
12.30pm
Waitaki Herald Victorian Retail Window Display
Prize-giving and presentation of the silver tray for the best dressed Victorian Window.
Oamaru Opera House. 90 Thames Street
12.30pm
Great Photo Opportunity
Join Oamaru’s heritage family for a group photograph in costume on the steps of the Opera House.
Oamaru Opera House. 90 Thames Street.
12.30pm
Costume Awards
Straight after the ‘Big’ photo on the Opera House steps, winners of the Best Dressed Wonderland themed costume will be presented.
1pm
Forrester and Lemon Memorial Lecture
Dunedin's Warehouse Precinct: Revitalisation in a Low Growth Environment
– an alternative and complimentary approach to Oamaru
Coming from a background in political studies and community relations, Glen has worked at Dunedin City Council for six years in the heritage and urban design field. Glen has a specific interest in heritage-led revitalisation and community partnerships in shaping the development of distinctive, creative, and economically vibrant places. He has been project managing the implementation of the Warehouse Precinct Revitalisation Plan and is now working on a similar plan for Princes Street. He has also coordinated the city's new approach to heritage which is having positive results for the re-use and upgrade of the city's heritage buildings.
The Ink Box – Oamaru Opera House. 90 Thames Street. Admission free.
1pm
Mad Hatter’s Bridge
Drawn partners so single entries welcome. Prizes for best hat, spot prizes and more. Afternoon tea and bar. Entry fee $5. All bridge players welcome.
Phone 434 3470 for more info. Oamaru Bridge Club Rooms, Steward Street and Medway Street Oamaru.
1pm
“Where we went and the adventures we had”
In line with custom those dauntless and daring survivors of this year’s Heritage Cycle Tour will present their deeds of derring-do to an astonished audience.
Admission free. Oamaru Public Library, 62 Thames Street, Oamaru.
2pm
Movie at the Limelight
Call in to select a film from times gone by and experience a Victorian treat.
Tickets $15 (seniors and students $10) from Limelight Cinema only
Bookings preferred: www.limelight.co.nz Ph: 434 1077. Limelight Cinemas, 260 Thames Street.
2.30pm-3.30pm
Crombie & Price Victorian Garden Party
A casual stroll through the botanical gardens towards a tea party hosted by none other than The Mad Hatter, March Hare, and Dormouse, but of course, it is very hard to get any sense out of any of them! However, whoever is there, tea and croquet are on offer. This year the musical entertainment is by the Twin City Stompers with a musical programme of Victorian Jazz to keep everyone on their toes.
Admission free. Oamaru Public Gardens, Band Rotunda.
Wet weather venue St Paul’s Church Hall Coquet Street.
2.30pm-3.30pm
Oamaru Gardens Picnic Competition
Join the elegantly attired gentry as they sip their cups of tea at the Garden Party, show off your best tea things
and bring some delectable delicacies in the style of a Victorian traveller. Prize for the best dressed picnic table that is dressed to this year’s theme. Please set your tables up around the area that is reserved for the garden party.
2.30pm-3.30pm
Croquet in the Gardens
Have a go at croquet in the gardens with help from the Awamoa Gardens Croquet Club.
Oamaru Public Gardens, Band Rotunda.
4pm-6pm
High Tea and Croquet at Riverstone
High Tea is served Mad Hatter style at Riverstone Kitchen followed by croquet on the lawn. With a stunning Castle for a backdrop, food that is sublime, gorgeous gardens to admire, hedgehogs and flamingos to uncover, this high tea is guaranteed to be a delight.
Please be seated strictly by 4.00pm. Admission by ticket only. Tickets $25
Book on this site or at the i-SITE. Riverstone Kitchen, 1431 State Highway 1 – North of Oamaru.
4pm-6pm
Traveller’s Tales
Come along and share traveller’s tales – everyone has a story: like Alice’s journey into wonderland- share a tale of the magical adventures and exciting places you have experienced! You are welcome to tell a story, or come to listen.
Adventure Books, 7 Harbour Street. Free admission.
5pm
Wonderland Wandering Banquet
Start your evening in style with delectable canapés at the Criterion, then all aboard the train for a leisurely ride to Portside for your main course. Then return on the train for your dessert to be served at the Criterion.
A very pleasant way to start the evening, then on to your evening entertainment or onto the ball.
Tickets $45 includes your meal and train ride.
Book on this site or at the i-SITE.
5.30pm
‘Up the Rabbit Hole & Through the Looking Glass’
A Wonderland Exhibition of Curiosities by Donna Demente, Watts Davies and guests. Opening 5.30 pm Black Friday. Wear a Mad Hat if you have one!
Gold Coin donation. Grainstore Gallery, Harbour Street.
7.30pm
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice...the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun. Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street
Tickets $20 Adult. Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667
Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
8pm
The Royal Ball
The Queen of Hearts charges all persons of note to attend her Ball. Tonica, a quartet from Dunedin have been commanded to play and the chef is creating a four course supper suitable for nobility. Liquid refreshments may be purchased during the evening. Dress code: Character costume, formal ball attire or dress uniform. Limited places, booking essential. No door sales.
Royal Salon opens at 7pm. Grand March commences at 8pm. Dancing until late.
The Scottish Hall, 10 Tyne St.Tickets $60. Book on this site or at the i-SITE
8pm
Mystical and Bizarre – Mediums and Psychics abound
Contact with other dimensions was a regular parlour fascination - Take you own journey back in time in an hour and a half of delightful entertainment from our very own Uncle George’s mystic fascinations. Be amazed as he reads your mind but cannot find his own. An evening of mystery and parlour entertainment from the Wonderland of Alice’s own story by her Uncle Lewis. In Donna Demente’s Grainstore Gallery served with tea and other social delights Uncle George – New Zealand’s only Victorian Magician. A show not to be missed.
Tickets $25. Book on this site or at the i-SITE. Grainstore Gallery, Harbour Street.
Saturday 14th November 2015
8am
Vintage Car Club Swapmeet
The North Otago Vintage Car Club is hosting their annual Swapmeet, a treasure-trove of delights for all vintage and veteran enthusiasts, something for everyone.
Entry $5 at the gate. A and P Show grounds. Caledonion Road.
9am-5pm
Antiquarian Book Fair
Rare book displays and sales; collectible vintage books, maps & prints for sale; old printing press; displays on
bookbinding. Free ‘Antique Roadshow’ style book valuations – come along and bring in your old books for pricing,
free valuations and certificates!
Loan and Merc Building, Harbour Street.
9am-10am
The World Famous Star and Garter Breakfast
Savour the delights of mushrooms and more mushrooms, pigs in blankets, duchess potatoes and much much more.
Be entertained by Richard Bowering with a humorous look at Lewis Carroll and Alice in Wonderland
Tickets $25. Book on this site or at the i-SITE
Star and Garter Restaurant. 9 Itchen Street.
10am-12pm
Mad Potter’s Tea Party
Come and view the weird and wacky teapots, mugs and cups created by the members of the Pottery on Tyne Club Enjoy a free cup of tea for anyone who drops by.
Pottery on Tyne, 44 Tyne Street.
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm.
10am-4pm
Grandma’s Treasures
Sale at St Luke’s Hall Wharfe Street.
10am-12 noon
Down the Decades
Join Helen Stead on a walk by & through Buildings; over & under Bridges here in 1878 when Oamaru was New Zealand’s ninth largest urban area.
Tickets $20, with gold coin donation at the Oamaru Opera House Meet at the i-Site, 1 Thames Street
Book on this site or at the i-SITE.
10.30am-3.30pm
St Luke’s Historic Church - North Otago Floral Art Society Display and ‘Weddings over 150 years’
Gold coin donation. St Luke’s Church. Itchen Street.
10.30am-11am
Caucus Race
Register with the Dodo outside the i-SITE for a race course map, starting points and lack of rules. All welcome.
Free admission, prize giving at Joneses Park.
12.00pm
Whitestone Contracting Grand Street Parade
The sights and sounds of yester year will wend their way through town for all to see. Join in, or watch from the
sidelines. Competition for the schools that take part – Best Preschool or School float wins the Whitestone
Contracting $1,000 prize.
Starts Tyne Street along Itchen Street and into Lower Thames Street.
Best of British Motoring Charity Day
Hosted by the Otago Jaguar Drivers Club, a rally of British Cars from around the South Island will be arriving from Dunedin late morning and early afternoon and will be on display in the carpark at the end of the Victorian Precinct. Donations going to a charity in the area. Come and view these magnificent cars.
1.30pm-5pm
Working Vintage Machinery
From the age of steam and early internal combustion engines comes a working display of rural machinery.
See a traction engine driving a chaff cutter, many stationary engines and a display of blade and machine sheep shearing.
At the southern end of the Precinct.
1.30pm
Oamaru Bicycle Polo Tournament
See the country’s finest bicycle polo players battle it out for glory and honour at the polo match being held on the Victorian Precinct ‘Polodrome’, at the south end of the Victorian Precinct.
1.30pm
The 21st Heritage Bicycle Championship
New Zealand’s foremost heritage cycling event attracting wheelmen (and women) from all around the globe. This will be another high thrill as riders participate in sprints, slaloms, relays, slow races, and the ghastly Tyne Street Grunter. Collect your entry forms from Club Trailer on Tyne Street prior to 1pm. All riders are encouraged to wear traditional riding attire and the emphasis is on participation and enjoyment. Prize-giving will be held following the events.
Enquiries: oamaruordinary@gmail.com Tyne Street.
1.30pm-3.30pm
Masonic Lodge Open
Lodge rooms are open, come and see the fabulous architecture of Forrester and Lemon, learn about Freemasonry and its ancient traditions, share some refreshments.
Gold coin donation. Masonic Lodge. Wansbeck Street, Oamaru.
1.30pm-3.30pm
Red Rose Tea Rooms
Refreshments available in the Red Rose Room at the Masonic Lodge, Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits served by your friendly Freemasons.
Gold coin donation. Masonic Lodge. Wansbeck Street, Oamaru.
1pm-4pm
‘Houses with History’ Tour
‘Alice’ invites you to visit her favourite historic houses on this transport of delight and fancy.
The tour will lead you through the extremes of Victorian domestic circumstances, including early Settler Cottages - both original and meticulously restored - and grand residences. Notably we will visit a large farm 15 minutes from town. The ‘Big House’ (1880) and the original cottage (1865) have both been elegantly refurbished but retain their character. The large stone agricultural building has been adapted to offices, which are the hub of a thriving contemporary industry. Stroll the grounds and you may find Alice sitting reading under a tree by the lake, while her friends offer you refreshments from the conservatory. The scented parterre nearby is a sensual and photographic delight.
Back in town a further delight will be a Carpenter Gothic house (1890) which has recently been gracefully improved to display and make best use of the hosts’ inherited and collected Victorian treasures. Musicians will serenade you. Come with us, we will lead you up the garden path.
Gather at the Last Post for prompt departure at 1pm.
Transport is provided and passengers will be returned to town at 4pm.
If travelling privately, please notify when booking.
Tickets $20. Book on this site or at the i-SITE. All proceeds from this tour will go to Bowel Cancer NZ.
2pm
Movie at the Limelight
Call in to select a film from times gone by and experience a Victorian treat.
Tickets $15 (seniors and students $10) Tickets from Limelight Cinema only
Bookings preferred www.limelight.co.nz Ph: 434 1077. Limelight Cinemas, 260 Thames Street.
2pm
Smoko Time at Swaggers Rest – Totara Estate
Come and join us at Totara Estate for the Swaggers tea party. Totara was an important Victorian Estate so step back in time and explore how the farm workers lived and see demonstrations of traditional farm tasks. Enjoy a generous serving of traditional tea time fare pioneer style from scrubbed tables and tin mugs – not to mention entertainment from the swaggers. This is a tea party not to be missed.
Totara Estate 8kms South of Oamaru. Fee: Adults: $15 (Heritage New Zealand members $10) Children: $5
Bookings essential on this site or at the i-SITE. Strictly no door sales.
2.30pm
Madder Hatter’s Family Tea Party
Come through the rabbit hole and enter the magical world of the Mad Hatters Tea Party. Meet the Mad Hatter himself, the White Rabbit, the dormouse and Alice. Set amongst the Oamaru Stone symposium sculpture exhibition by the sea. Have a special cup of tea and some cake at the Mad Hatters Table, Play a game of croquet with the hedgehogs and flamingos, Play with the costumes and props and get your photo taken by a professional photographer.
Learn to juggle or hula hoop with the characters.
Site open all day. Party starts at 2.30pm. Free entry. Friendly Bay beside Steampunk Playground.
4pm
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice...the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun. Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street. Tickets $20 Adult.
Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667. Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz
Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
4pm-6pm
Wonderland Croquet at Pen-y-bryn
The World Croquet Federation won’t recognise it, but Alice might. Capital! Steampunk presents a splendid game of croquet on the lawn at Pen-y-bryn. There will be flamingos. There will be hedgehogs. Her Majesty the Queen of Hearts will be attending, and heads will possibly roll. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to join in, or just watch and offer polite advice from the side-lines. Pen-y-bryn’s cook will be making jam tarts (with plenty of pepper) and other tasty treats, and cups of tea will be available to revive the faint. Space is limited.
Tickets $25 Book on this site or at the i-SITE. Pen-y-bryn Luxury lodge, 41 Towey Street.
4pm-5 pm
Clarks Mill Guided Tour with Machinery Operating
Originally part of Totara Estate, this flour mill will be open and operating. Take a guided tour through this 19th Century engineering marvel and see the mill machinery running. Follow the journey of a grain of wheat from its arrival to its departure as the fine Snow Wreath flour formerly manufactured here.
Clarks Mill, Maheno, 12km South of Oamaru. Guided Tour Fee $15 (Heritage New Zealand Members free)
Book on this site or at the i-SITE.
4pm-7pm
Red Rose Tea Dance
The Duchess invites all to an afternoon of dignified dancing, giddy gossip and an appetising afternoon tea. Dances will include simple English country house dances as well as some from the formal Ball. Suitable for all ages and ability.
Masonic Centre, Wansbeck St. Tickets $15, includes afternoon tea. Limited tickets, booking recommended
6pm-8.30pm
Murder Mystery Dinner
A Murder to solve and a 4 course dinner to enjoy at Cucina 1871 Restaurant. Alice and friends are all gathered for a meal and trying to solve the case of their friend’s murder. Come and join the fun and help solve the mystery. Was it the cook, the Duchess or maybe MaryAnne or TweedleDee? You’ll have to be there to find out.
Tickets $45 for Meal and Mystery. Drinks sold separately. Limited numbers bookings essential
Book on this site or at the i-SITE. Cucina 1871, 1 Tees Street.
8pm
Wonderland Workers WingDing
Join Two, Five and Seven and other Wonderland workers in a Whirl at the Loan and Merc. Sing and dance to music by Boru and be entertained by Fiery Peak Morris dancers. Supper included in the ticket price. Liquid refreshments may be purchased during the evening. Limited places, booking recommended.
Doors open 7.30pm. The Loan and Merc, Harbour St. $30. Book on this site or at the i-SITE.
Sunday 15th November 2015
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910am-4pm
The Network Waitaki Victorian Fete
Roll up, roll up! Musicians, singers and dancers from around the world are performing at the Victorian Fete; dozens of quality boutique stalls selling all manner of exquisite wares will line the streets, you will be thrilled with the amazing Victorian costumes and an Alice in Wonderland costume parade will take you right into the world of Alice; jugglers and street performers, magicians and stilt walkers will be found on every corner and cancan dancers kicking up their heels will ensure the day is one to remember.
Dress up in your Victorian best and join in all the fun of the Fair!
Entry $10, Children Free. Cash only to enter the Fete, however Eftpos will be available within the Fete.
Harbour & Tyne Streets. Programme and stall site inquiries: www.victorianoamaru.co.nz
10am-4pm
North Otago Arts Society
Art sale and Devonshire tea for sale. Enjoy the work of the local artists on display.
Customs House Gallery. Tyne Street.
10am-4pm
The Chequered Path – Display of Alice in Wonderland Dolls
The Patroness of TOTE invites you to enter the mystical world of fabric and yarn at the Oamaru Textile Emporium! Inside you will find a range of Cloth Dolls with Attitude just like the Patroness herself, created by the highly talented Sharon Mitchell including the Chequered Path Display of Alice in wonderland dolls! Take time to talk with the artist. Don’t forget to thank the patroness on your way out – she just loves her photo being taken and a kiss on her cheek.
The Oamaru Textile Exchange Tyne Street,10am-4pm.
10am
Heritage Church Services
St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 5 Coquet Street.
10.30am
St Luke’s Anglican Heritage Service
Share in a service which spans in word and music the history of Anglican worship in North Otago.
St Luke’s Church, Corner Itchen and Tees Streets.
12pm-4pm
St Luke’s Historic Church with North Otago Floral Art Society
Display & ‘Weddings over 150 years’.
St Luke’s Church, Corner Itchen and Tees Streets. Gold coin donation.
1pm-3pm
Clarks Mill Open and Operating
If you missed seeing Clarks Mill yesterday, here is a chance for a self-guided tour through this 19th Century engineering marvel, originally part of Totara Estate. The session will end with the machinery operating at 3pm.
Clarks Mill, Maheno, 12km South of Oamaru.
Operating tour fee $15.00 or $10 for non-operating tour (Heritage New Zealand Members free)
1:30pm-3pm
Schola Cantorum of Christchurch
Early Renaissance Sacred Music by Guillaume de Machaut, Guillaume Dufay, and others.
Filling the magical sound space of St Patrick’s Basilica.
St Patrick’s Basilica 68 Reed St, Oamaru. Tickets sales at the door. $15 or $10 senior/unwaged/student.
2pm-4pm
Travellers’ Tales at Adventure Books
Stories from the far end of the rabbit hole: Come prepared to enchant an audience with your weirdest, most wonderful, most unbelievable and bizarre travellers’ tales. All welcome.
Free Admission. Adventure Books, 7 Harbour Street.
4pm
Oamaru Repertory Society Inc. ‘Alice...the Panto’ By Archie Wilson, Directed by Judith Bingham.
Alice takes a trip down the rabbit hole in this panto version of the classic tale, meeting all the usual suspects, playing croquet, looking after babies and having a tea.
Wed 11 Nov – Sun. Oamaru Repertory Society, 15 Itchen Street. Tickets $20 Adult.
Concessions available. For pre bookings phone 03 434 7667 Or email: tickets@oamarurepertory.co.nz
Tickets available from the theatre from 1st November.
4pm-6pm
Headstones & Stories
Twilight walk through Oamaru’s oldest cemetery with conservation historian Helen Stead. Discover the stories of the lost graves. Meet at Greta Street gate.
Tickets $20. Book on this site or at the i-SITE.