Arrow River

The Arrow River is a stunning braided river that flows through the heart of Arrowtown, offering a serene escape into nature. Its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by golden poplars and rugged mountains, make it a photographer's dream and a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a gold-panning adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Gold Panning: Try your hand at gold panning like the early Chinese miners did. You can rent a pan from Arrowtown and try your luck in the river's gravel bars.
• Arrow River Bridges Walk: A gentle walk along the riverbanks, crossing historic bridges and taking in views of the surrounding hills. In autumn, the foliage is spectacular.
• Macetown Track: For a more adventurous outing, hike or bike this historic 4WD track that follows the Arrow River to the ghost town of Macetown, with relics of the gold rush era.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for native birds like the paradise shelduck and black-backed gull, and in the river, you might spot brown trout.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can enjoy the Arrow River in as little as an hour for a quick riverside stroll and gold panning, but to fully appreciate the area, plan for half a day. Combine the Bridges Walk with a picnic lunch, or devote a full day if you intend to hike the Macetown Track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown – Explore the historic gold-mining town itself, with its charming main street, Chinese settlement, and museums.
• Queenstown – Just a 20-minute drive away, this adventure hub offers bungee jumping, jet boating, and lake cruises.
• Glenorchy – A scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu leads to this small town, gateway to the Routeburn Track and Paradise.
• Wanaka – An hour's drive over the Crown Range, Wanaka boasts the famous #ThatWanakaTree and excellent hiking and skiing.

Please check official sources for current details.