Gold Panning Central Otago starts at Goldfields Mining Centre, one of New Zealand’s most authentic gold rush attractions. Located beside the spectacular Kawarau River between Queenstown and Cromwell, you’ll discover historic gold mining, live machinery demonstrations, hands-on gold panning and the fascinating stories of Central Otago’s gold rush.
Explore a genuine historic mining site, visit the replica Chinese Village and try your luck panning for real gold in virgin gold-bearing gravels. It’s a memorable experience for families, history enthusiasts and anyone looking for one of the best things to do in Central Otago.
Why Choose Goldfields Mining Centre?
Discover one of New Zealand’s most authentic gold mining experiences.
- Pan for real gold in virgin gold-bearing gravels
- Guided gold rush history tour
- Live California sluice gun demonstration
- Working stamper battery demonstration
- Explore a 25-hectare historic mining reserve
- Visit the replica Chinese Village
- Self-guided walking trails with interpretation panels
- Family-friendly attraction
- Located between Queenstown and Cromwell
- Beautiful Kawarau Gorge setting
Guided Gold Mining Tour
Join an experienced guide for an entertaining journey through Central Otago’s gold rush history. Learn how early miners used water races, sluice guns and stamper batteries to recover gold while exploring one of New Zealand’s best-preserved historic mining sites.
The guided experience includes demonstrations of the powerful California sluice gun and one of the few operational stamper batteries still working in New Zealand.
Gold Panning Central Otago
No visit is complete without trying your hand at gold panning.
Your guide will demonstrate the correct technique before you pan through genuine gold-bearing gravels sourced from virgin ground. Many visitors discover small flakes of gold, while some lucky guests even uncover valuable nuggets.
Keep your eyes open—you could strike gold!
Explore the Historic Goldfields
After your guided tour, continue exploring the extensive 25-hectare reserve at your own pace.
Discover:
- Historic mine shafts
- Water races
- Original mining relics
- Walking trails
- Information displays
- The replica Chinese Village
- Spectacular views over the Kawarau River
A site map is provided to help you explore.
Replica Chinese Village
Visit the reconstructed Chinese Village and discover the lives of the Cantonese miners who travelled to Central Otago during the gold rush of the 1860s.
Explore the restored huts, miner’s store and displays while learning about an important chapter in New Zealand’s history.
Opening Hours
September – April
9:00am – 5:00pm
May – August
10:00am – 4:00pm
Admission
Please visit our website for current admission prices and family passes.
Admission includes:
- Guided tour
- Gold panning experience
- California sluice gun demonstration
- Working stamper battery demonstration
- Self-guided access to the historic reserve
- Replica Chinese Village
Book Direct with Goldfields Mining Centre
Book directly with Goldfields Mining Centre for the latest admission information, opening hours and visitor updates. Whether you’re planning a family outing, travelling through Central Otago or looking for one of the best things to do near Queenstown or Cromwell, the team will help you make the most of your visit.
Explore Central Otago
After your visit, discover more unforgettable attractions, accommodation and activities in our Otago Travel Guide.
FAQs
Where is Goldfields Mining Centre?
Goldfields Mining Centre is located on the Kawarau Gorge between Cromwell and Queenstown in Central Otago, making it an easy day trip from both destinations.
Can I keep the gold I find?
Yes. Any gold you discover during the gold panning experience is yours to keep.
Is gold panning suitable for children?
Yes. Gold panning is a fun activity for all ages and is one of the highlights for families visiting Goldfields Mining Centre.
How long should I allow for my visit?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the guided tour, gold panning experience and explore the historic reserve at your own pace.
What is included with admission?
Admission includes the guided gold mining tour, live demonstrations, gold panning, access to the walking trails and the replica Chinese Village.
Is Goldfields Mining Centre suitable in all weather?
Yes. The attraction is open year-round during scheduled opening hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
Is Goldfields Mining Centre near Queenstown?
Yes. Goldfields Mining Centre is located in the Kawarau Gorge between Queenstown and Cromwell, making it one of the most popular day-trip attractions in Central Otago.
Can I visit without joining a tour?
Visitors are welcome to explore the historic reserve using the self-guided walking trails. Admission also includes the guided tour and demonstrations, which are highly recommended to get the most from your visit.
