TOUR DESCRIPTION

Either full or ½ day exploring the stunning old gold mining townshop of Macetown, with full commentary and interpretation at each stop. From Arrowtown to the upper reaches of the Arrow and Richburn rivers, we journey along the rugged 1884 road following the trail of the 1860s gold rush.

Highlights of the day include:

• 25+ river crossings
• Scholes tunnel
• Historic gold mining relics
• Arrow River River
• Major Lord of the Rings location
• Engineering marvel Arrow irrigation scheme
• Joseph Needhams restored cottage
• Macetown bakery
• Stamping battery
• and much more..

Your local kiwi guide, Del has guided tourists into Macetown since 1990. His knowledge and experience on the road conditions, history and region make this a truly remarkable adventure into the high country.

HISTORY OF MACETOWN

Macetown was established about 1862 after the discovery of gold in the Arrow river, and was named after three Mace brothers, John, Charles and Harry, who mined there.

The town had a population of about 300 in 1863, but had slipped to 113 in the 1901 census, and by the 1930s was deserted.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Private groups (up to 4 passengers per vehicle)
• Available in either full or half day guided tours
• Full commentary and interpretation
• Authentic New Zealand high country experience
• Explore the 1884 Macetown road
• Visit the old Macetown Bakery !
• Try your hand at gold panning on the  Arrow River
• Optional helicopter out
• Pickup time and location by arrangement
• Delicious morning, afternoon tea provided on half day tours. Gourmet lunch provided on full day tour.

​ REQUEST MOREINFORMATION

The Macetown road and river crossings can be rough year round. A sense of adventure and a good spine are pre requisites for this trip.

DATES AVAILABLE

Trips are run on demand

EARLY MACETOWN IMAGES

click on image to view