Ōamaru takes centre stage in Netflix production
Published on 29 August 2026
Across generations, one family is drawn into a fierce struggle between good and evil, love and rejection, and the choices that echo long after they are made. At its centre is Cathy Ames—magnetic, dangerous and impossible to forget—whose life becomes entwined with the Trask family as they confront the darker side of the California dream.
That sweeping story will soon place Ōamaru before audiences around the world when Netflix’s seven-part limited series East of Eden begins streaming on 1 October 2026. Parts of the production were filmed in Ōamaru, where the town’s distinctive Victorian streetscape helped bring the period drama to life.
Based on John Steinbeck’s 1952 novel, the modern interpretation follows the multigenerational saga of the Trask family with renewed focus on Cathy Ames, played by Florence Pugh. The cast also includes Christopher Abbott, Mike Faist, Hoon Lee, Tracy Letts, Ciarán Hinds, Martha Plimpton, Joseph Zada and Joe Anders.
Ōamaru’s well-preserved limestone buildings, historic harbour area and streets with minimal modern visual intrusion make the town a versatile, ready-made location for period productions. The Heritage Precinct and surrounding areas have hosted feature films, television series, documentaries and commercial shoots over several decades.
“It was wonderful to see Ōamaru become part of a major international production, and the community is looking forward to recognising our streets and buildings on screen,” Waitaki District Council CEO Alex Parmley said. “This is a proud moment for the town and another opportunity to showcase Ōamaru as a distinctive, film-friendly destination.”
He said Waitaki District Council has made it easy to do business, with dedicated case managers ready to help filmmakers navigate the process from end to end. From initial enquiries and permits through to on-the-ground coordination, the Council provides a clear point of contact to help productions move efficiently and confidently.
This was reinforced by the BBC’s Story Producer Mona Ansari-Beni who was in town with Michael Portillo and the BBC’s Great Railway Journeys show earlier this year. Her team filmed in the Heritage Precinct, capturing the town’s railway history, Victorian architecture and SteamPunk character for an international audience.
“Our experience working with Waitaki was brilliant,” Ms Ansari Beni said. “They helped organise a very successful shoot, where we got to experience the vibrant town of Oamaru.
“Everyone was extremely helpful, welcoming and we thoroughly enjoyed what was a very smooth day of filming,” she said.
Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust Property Manager Jacob Barwick said filming brought a palpable sense of excitement to the precinct, with the town buzzing and many locals stepping in front of the camera as extras.
“The production has already been a real drawcard, and we expect even more visitors once the series begins streaming,” he said.
“To help people step into the world they see on screen, we’re developing a precinct map pinpointing where key scenes were filmed. Visitors will be able to walk in the footsteps of the cast, explore the locations for themselves and experience the atmosphere that made Ōamaru such a compelling backdrop.”
The production adds to Ōamaru’s growing screen legacy. Its authentic heritage character, experienced local businesses and welcoming community continue to offer filmmakers a compelling combination of atmosphere, adaptability and practical support.
The Waitaki District has also produced a location map of some of the other major production which have been filed in the Waitaki district over the past couple of decades such as Starlight Hotel, Mr Pip, The Power of the Dog and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.
All seven episodes of East of Eden will be available on Netflix from 1 October 2026.
ENDS