About the Victorian Heritage Celebrations

The Ōamaru Victorian Heritage Celebrations showcase the friendliness and civic pride of a small New Zealand town. Our enthusiastic volunteers run several key events every year: a Victorian morning tea, a Garden Party, a formal Ball, a Street Parade, heritage Cycling Championships, a Victorian Fashion Show and an old-fashioned, informal dance. The Sunday main feature is a traditional Victorian fete, which is a fundraiser to maintain the wonderful old buildings. We also coordinate about 70 other events run by local performers, artisans, service clubs, churches, and community groups. The programme changes each year depending on what groups are involved.  You won’t be able to go to everything,  so please make a plan.

The Celebrations are based in and around the striking Victorian streetscapes, and we include heritage events outside the Victorian period when they fit in with the theme.  We do our best to re-create 19th century Ōamaru, so you will enjoy costumes, displays, food, music, lectures, performances and other events relevant to that period. There are also many heritage events on offer in the small towns in the surrounding area.

Many events are free and all are welcome to take part.

Accommodation in the town books out quickly, so get in early. 

Venues are small and tickets sell quickly, especially for dance events. So again, book early to avoid disappointment.

Free events held indoors require pre-booked tickets as spaces are limited.

All tickets can be booked through our website. 

Finally, events can be added after the brochure goes to print, so check our webpage and Facebook page for updates. 

Most of all - enjoy a warm welcome while you visit our lovely town.