Miners from around the world flocked to the area to seek their fortunes in the immensely rich gold fields on the banks of the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. Goldfields is a historical reserve, set aside by the Department of Conservation to demonstrate the range of mining techniques as used last century. Utilising high pressure water power from creeks in the surrounding hills, a wide range of mining equipment has been restored to give a fascinating insight into the ingenuity of the early miners. A rock drill compressor Quartz rock stamping battery Gold rockers, and of course gold pans which, carefully used, still reward those with the patience to seek their luck. A melting pot of cultures.
Goldfields is the site of an authentic Chinese mining village.
It is a memorial to the hundreds of Chinese miners who followed the world s gold rushes, sometimes living under the harshest of conditions. At its height, Goldfields, was home to more than 400 miners. Numerous artefacts left behind by the miners can still be found in the extensive diggings which cover the 30 hectare site. European habitation is represented by historical buildings which have been collected from around the region and brought to Goldfields for restoration. The jail, bank, school room and mine s store form the basis of a unique collection of buildings portraying life in the early 19th century.