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Hundreds of people donned hats, gloves, tails and petticoats for a race day with a difference in Oamaru today.

The North Otago town, which is undergoing a major revitalisation, celebrated the launch of its annual Heritage Week with a Victorian-themed day at the track.

Instead of the usual barely-there cup day attire, Oamaru locals were covered from head-to-toe in full Victorian dress.

"We look forward to it for months ahead, for a matter of fact," says local Noel Bradshaw. "There's a lot of planning that goes into it. It lasts for four days, and we have basically four outfits per day."

The race day marks the beginning of the town's annual Heritage Week where the whitestone town steps back in time to celebrate its Victorian past.

"It gives the town a unique point of difference," says Scott Elliff, Oamaru Heritage Committee. "As I say, the community is prepared to dress in costume and they embrace their history."

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