Omarama (pronounced O - mara - ma) is a small rural town in Otago, South Island, New Zealand, that benefits from being in the same region as many of the country's top scenic attractions. Many scenes for Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings were filmed in the area. Given the nearby mountains, prevailing westerly winds and hot summer temperatures, it is a spectacular place to fly from and the weather is generally clear with low rainfall.
Omarama township and Omarama Airfield
How to get there
Christchurch is the nearest large international airport and is a four-hour drive from Omarama. If driving from Christchurch, take State Highway One south-west through Ashburton and follow the signs to Aoraki/Mt Cook. Past the Rangitata River turn right onto Highway 8 and follow this through the towns of Geraldine, Fairlie and Tekapo. Some international flights also arrive in Queenstown from Australia.
Wanaka is one hour by road and Queenstown is two hours away. Rental cars are readily available at Christchurch and Queenstown.
Alternatively, you can get a ride with Atomic Shuttles. This company runs a service from Christchurch or Queenstown (going both directions). Details on their timetable are available on their website at: www.atomictravel.co.nzAviation Adventures base is in the Terminal Building located on the airfield one kilometre north-east of the town. It is well sign posted
Facilities
Omarama has a General Store (with postal facilities), two petrol stations, a garage/workshop, a variety of cafes and restaurants, a pub and a bottle store. There are no banks or cash machines in town. Accommodation varies from two campgrounds, two motels and two hotels. There are also bed and breakfast options nearby.