Our plan for the day
We’ll start our trip in historic Arrowtown (a quaint high street resembling a time from the cowboy era). Here, I’ll show you my favourite spots and shops showcasing the jade and gold nuggets found in the area. Afterwards, we’ll jump in my trusty 4×4 and drive towards the original highway system of New Zealand – the Arrow river.
Around 23 river crossings and several lookouts across the Arrow Gorge later, we’ll reach deserted Macetown in the middle of our remote backyard. We’ll take our time to explore the remains of NZ’s golden past and can go on a short bushwalk to a gold stamper left behind in the wilderness.
On our way back to the Ghost Town, I’ll tell you more about my home and why this region means so much to me. There is more to Otago than just bungy jumping, jet boats and beautiful lakes (although our Kiwi ingenuity is pretty impressive).
Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying our luck at some gold panning.
It’s not only incredibly relaxing and provides a chance to observe the curious fantails, but it may also bring you riches! Afterwards, there’s time to enjoy lunch and take a dip in the river, before we head back into town to round up our day.