We stroll the streets and wharf. Oamaru is a Victorian era deep water shipping port. The waterfront streets still lined with grand limestone warehouses that now house all manner of shop and studio. In contrast, a splash of steam punk contributes bizarre and grand steel sculptures and kinetic art. There is a steam punk museum – from the outside I’d say a good stop if you have the time. Work-weary fishing boats are moored along the wharf. It is home to the Whitestone cheese factory. I couldn’t pass up their Vintage Blue Cheese, second in the world in 2019. Stinky but absolutely delicious.
I get a little too brave ordering lunch!
We are on the hunt for fish ‘n chips since we are in a fishing town and end up at The Star and Garter a small local place with a friendly vibe which does indeed have fish and chips on the menu. Kent goes for the Blue Cod and I can’t pass up the chalkboard special I see in the window, whitebait fritters. Well let me just say, it is what it sounds like. Little tiny whole fish stirred into a light eggy batter and fried. Edible but not something I would do again. The pumpkin soup I had for a starter was fantastic.