The Kingdom by the Sea
1 / 10

Janet Frame House

4.5
·32 reviews·Oamaru, New Zealand

Step into the world of acclaimed New Zealand writer Janet Frame at her preserved Oamaru home, a sanctuary of literary history and personal reflection.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The Kingdom by the Sea

Janet Frame House

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the world of acclaimed New Zealand writer Janet Frame at her preserved Oamaru home, a sanctuary of literary history and personal reflection.

4.5
(32 reviews)

"Such a special place that is being taken care of with real love."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Check Hours Before You Go

Limited opening hours mean checking ahead is crucial to avoid missing out.

🚶‍♀️ Meander the Garden

Even if you can't go inside, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to explore.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 32 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Garden Path

The Garden Path

Exterior

Wander through the tranquil garden, a peaceful space that inspired the writer.

Instagram
Period Pieces & Mementos

Period Pieces & Mementos

Interior

Explore artifacts and displays that offer a glimpse into Janet Frame's life and times.

Reddit
A Writer's Sanctuary

A Writer's Sanctuary

Interior

Experience the atmosphere of the house where Janet Frame lived and wrote, feeling her presence.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Hours

Janet Frame House has limited opening hours. Always check the official website or social media before your visit to avoid disappointment, as many visitors have missed out by not doing so. Instagram

Book in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking a tour or visit in advance is recommended, especially if you want a guided experience. This ensures you get the most out of your visit and can learn about Janet Frame's life and work from knowledgeable guides. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, by appointment
Why
Guided tours available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Los Cuervos, de Janet Frame. #28deagosto #JanetFrame #mujeresqueescriben #mujeresqueinspiran #poemas #NuevaZelanda #Dunedin #neozelandesa #poetaneozelandeza #poetisa #versos #cuervos #LosCuervos #literatura #storytime #mujeres #art #invierno #poesia
@arbolhueco
11.6K likes • 166.8K views

📚 Check Hours Before You Go

Limited opening hours mean checking ahead is crucial to avoid missing out. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Meander the Garden

Even if you can't go inside, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to explore. Reddit

Have you heard of Oamaru? 🤩 Located in New Zealand’s South Island, Oamaru had an economic boom during the 19th century and at the time was bigger than Los Angeles! Nowadays, it’s a little sleepier but the history of the town is very much alive, celebrated in its museums, stores, architecture and most of all the Victorian precinct ✨ #oamaru #newzealand🇳🇿 #nztiktok #newzealand #newzealandtiktok #n...
@cjexplores
10K likes • 193.5K views
Former Prime Minister and Janet Frame House patron Helen Clark @helenclarknz was lucky enough to meet Janet several times, and calls her “one of our greatest ever novelists”. We’re proud to have Helen supporting our mission to build a new visitor centre at 56 Eden St, Oamaru - find out more at the link in our bio 📚
janet_frame_house
56 likes • 1.7K views

🗣️ Engage with the Guide

Guides offer valuable context and insights into Janet Frame's life and work. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Space

Treat the house with care; it's a special place being preserved with love. Reddit

A very special piece of Janet Frame history was unearthed during some renovations at Janet Frame House. Hear from our chair Chloe Searle about this amazing find.
janet_frame_house
39 likes • 632 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Check Hours Before You Go

Limited opening hours mean checking ahead is crucial to avoid missing out. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Meander the Garden

Even if you can't go inside, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to explore. Reddit

🗣️ Engage with the Guide

Guides offer valuable context and insights into Janet Frame's life and work. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Space

Treat the house with care; it's a special place being preserved with love. Reddit

📖 Read Frame's Work

Familiarize yourself with her writing for a deeper appreciation of the house. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(32 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Janet Frame House a deeply moving and special place, offering a tangible connection to the acclaimed writer's life. Many appreciate the love and care evident in its preservation and the insightful guidance provided. While some have been disappointed by limited opening hours, those who visit often leave with a profound sense of appreciation for Frame's work and legacy. InstagramReddit

"I had been crying in the car for ninety minutes previous to arriving.. lost for words, I pulled myself together and entered the property at full speed bare foot, desperate for balance I spread my hands as far apart as possible.. the game was up, as if spotted by a presence emerging from the curtains my eyes locked in on an animal I had never seen before, its majestic elongated beautiful legs keeping guard but not completely.. a gap revealing a secret.. it had been laying eggs and by the state of its nest they were moments from being fed.

Great place would come back 🫶"

Sam Strathdee

"Unfortunately our visit didn't coincide with the limited opening hours, but loved meandering around the well-tended and colourful garden and peering in the windows. Frame is my literary hero."

Catherine Blomkamp

"Interesting place with period pieces displayed showcasing a portion of Janet Frames life. The guide helped put things into perspective."

Eric Harrison

What People Like

Touching literary connection
Well-tended garden
Insightful guides

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Janet Frame House is located at 56 Eden Street in Oamaru, New Zealand. Oamaru is accessible by car via State Highway 1. If traveling from further afield, you can fly into Dunedin Airport (DUD) and then rent a car or take a bus to Oamaru. TikTok

Street parking is generally available near Janet Frame House in Oamaru. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions. Reddit

Yes, Oamaru is a walkable town, and Janet Frame House is centrally located. Public transport options within Oamaru are limited, but taxis or ride-sharing services can be used. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Janet Frame House has limited opening hours and these can vary seasonally. It is essential to check their official website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit. Instagram

While walk-ins may be possible depending on availability, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you wish to have a guided tour. This ensures your entry and a more enriching experience. Reddit

Admission fees can vary. It's best to check the official Janet Frame House website for current pricing and any special tour costs. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. They provide in-depth insights into Janet Frame's life and literary contributions. Reddit+1

In some instances, the garden may be accessible even when the house itself is closed. However, it's always best to confirm this with the venue beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can expect to see period pieces, mementos, and displays that showcase Janet Frame's life and literary work. The house aims to provide a tangible connection to her experiences. Reddit

Accessibility information can vary. It's advisable to contact Janet Frame House directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any potential limitations. Reddit

Photography policies can differ. It's best to ask for permission or check for signage regarding photography inside the house to respect the exhibits and other visitors. Reddit

A typical visit, especially with a guided tour, might take around 1 to 1.5 hours. However, you may wish to spend more time reflecting in the garden. Reddit

A notebook discovered during renovations is a significant find, offering a direct link to Janet Frame's past and potentially revealing new insights into her life or work. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The garden path offers a picturesque setting for photos, especially during blooming seasons. The exterior architecture also provides charming photo opportunities. Instagram

Policies for professional photoshoots may differ. It's recommended to contact Janet Frame House directly to inquire about their guidelines and any associated fees. Reddit

Photography inside may be restricted to protect the artifacts and maintain the atmosphere. Always check for signage or ask staff for guidance. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2