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Offered languages
- English
Step into the past on this thrilling full-day 4x4 off-road journey to Macetown – a remote gold mining settlement hidden deep in Queenstown’s backcountry. Follow the rugged Arrow River trail, crossing its waters 25 times in each direction, as you encounter dramatic landscapes, historic relics, and the legacy of Otago’s 1860s gold rush.
Perfect for adventurous travellers, photographers, history buffs, and families, this is no ordinary road trip – it’s a true off-road expedition. Expert guides take you along the narrow miners’ wagon trail once used by gold prospectors, deep into the mountains behind Arrowtown. With 50 river crossings, 90 minute walk, picnic lunch, relics, and lupin-filled valleys in spring and summer, every moment offers something new. Hear tales of pioneer hardship, colourful gold rush characters, and the rise and fall of the once-thriving township, with immersive storytelling and countless photo-worthy scenes along the way.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Wait outside our Nomad Safaris shop at 37 Shotover Street for the 4WD vehicle to pick you up.
Itinerary
-
1
Enjoy the scenic drive from Queenstown to the quaint historic Arrowtown Village.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Explore the Museum with a brief visit and experience the history of the Gold Mining era.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3
Arrive at Macetown for a picnic lunch and relic exploration while soaking up the backcountry views.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4
Walk for 90 minutes return through wild alpine terrain to the towering, four-story Homeward Bound Battery - a powerful remnant of gold mining ingenuity
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Try your luck at gold panning in the Arrow River with hands-on instruction.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Follow the miners’ old wagon trail and explore the historic gold mining town of Macetown. Long since abandoned after the gold rush, Macetown has now been transformed into a Department of Conservation reserve. Experience the narrow, rugged road in safety with a Nomad Safaris tour.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions unless the river is too high. Dress appropriately for comfort and the 90 minute walk.
- Minimum numbers apply (min 2 per tour for confirmed departure, min 4 on NZ public holidays). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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