Caring for New Zealand's
Best Collection of
Victorian Buildings
Oamaru Heritage Precinct
The Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust owns 18 buildings, sixteen of which are historic mercantile and commercial buildings located on Harbour and Tyne Streets, collectively known as the Heritage Precinct. Constructed during the Victorian era, each building possesses its own distinctive history, character, and charm.
The Trust also owns and cares for the Masonic Centre on Wansbeck Street; the main building is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture.
The Trust serves as landlord to a valued group of tenants whose diverse businesses and events contribute to making the precinct a vibrant and unique destination.
The Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust is dedicated to the conservation, enhancement, renovation, and sensitive redevelopment of Oamaru’s built heritage. Its work extends across the Heritage Precinct, the wider town of Oamaru, and the North Otago countryside, encompassing historic buildings, streetscapes, and the surrounding townscape and harbour environment.
In accordance with its constitution, the Trust also advocates for the protection and recognition of all heritage within North Otago, working to ensure that the region’s historic places and environments are valued, safeguarded, and sustained for future generations.
Whitestone City
Whitestone City is a central heritage hub that invites you to explore Oamaru's Victorian past.
Set in an original grain store that was built in 1882, and located within New Zealand’s most complete streetscape of Victorian commercial buildings, it's not a typical museum - at Whitestone City you can touch and try everything - it brings history to life, and is a must-do while in Oamaru.
The Victorian Wardrobe
Creative Victorian Outfitters
The largest and finest collection of Victorian styled clothing for hire anywhere in New Zealand.
To complement the many Victorian themed events held in Victorian Oamaru, visit The Victorian Wardrobe, where replica Victorian costumes and accessories can be hired.
Victorian Fete
The Network Waitaki Victorian Fete is our showstopping signature annual event.
Hosted in the heritage precinct, on the third Sunday of November, it's a day jammed packed with non-stop entertainment.
Ride a Penny Farthing, witness incredible Victorian costumes, jugglers, street performers, magicians and stilt walkers, around every corner.
Network Waitaki Victorian Fete
Sunday 15 November 2026
Become a Member of the OWCT
As a member of the Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust, you will be part of a group of individuals, companies, and organisations who are helping to conserve Oamaru's built heritage by bringing to life one of New Zealand’s most important collections of heritage buildings.
