He is one of 36 New Zealand Test cricketers to have scored 1000 runs and one of just 6 New Zealanders to have reached the double of 1000 ODI runs and 100 wickets.

In 2003-04 he fell just short of a maiden Test hundred with 97 against Pakistan. He didn't have to wait long though as he brought up his first Test hundred in his next Test match, against South Africa with 119 not out. His hot streak continued with 90 in the following Test. His second Test hundred was arguably his finest, 126 not out against Australia in Brisbane, against the likes of Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath. For his 3rd Test hundred he again tormented the South African bowling lineup with a career highest of 133.

On 28 January 2007 in Perth, Oram smashed an unbeaten 101 off 72 balls in an ODI against Australia. It was at the time the fastest ever ODI century by a New Zealander and also the fastest ever made against Australia. His 137 run partnership with Brendon McCullum was the highest ever for the New Zealand 6th wicket.