Totara Estate
The birthplace of New Zealand's frozen meat export industry, where the first frozen lamb was shipped to Britain in 1882; the whitestone farm buildings are preserved.
Totara Estate lies about 8 km south of Oamaru. In 1882, sheep meat slaughtered and processed here was shipped to London aboard the refrigerated ship Dunedin, launching New Zealand's frozen meat export industry and profoundly shaping the national economy. The estate retains whitestone barns, stables, worker accommodation and kitchens, managed by Heritage New Zealand, with exhibitions telling this story. Opening hours vary greatly by season, so check the official website before you go. Entry is about NZ$10.
Opening hours
Seasonal; 10:00–16:00 in summer (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Ōamaru Public Gardens
- Forrester Gallery
- Victorian Precinct
- Steampunk HQ
- Ōamaru Opera House
- Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
- Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony
- Moeraki Boulders