Greenstone

Greenstone is a tiny settlement nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps, just a short drive from Arrowtown. Known for its stunning alpine scenery and rich gold-mining history, this peaceful valley offers a true escape into nature. The Greenstone River, with its crystal-clear waters, flows through the area, and the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures.

Highlights & What to See

• Greenstone Valley Walk – A gentle, well-marked trail following the river, perfect for spotting native birds and enjoying the alpine air. In autumn, the beech forests turn golden.
• Historic Gold Mining Sites – Explore remnants of the 1860s gold rush, including old sluicings, water races, and a few restored huts. Panning for gold in the river is still a popular activity.
• Greenstone River – A pristine river ideal for fly fishing (brown trout) and peaceful picnics. The water is clear enough to see the stones that give the area its name.
• Mountain Biking – The Greenstone Track is a well-known route for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers, winding through beech forest and open tussock lands.
• Stargazing – Far from city lights, Greenstone offers incredible night skies. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is nearby, but even here the Milky Way is vividly visible.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day exploring Greenstone, enough for a short walk or bike ride and a picnic by the river. If you're keen on a longer hike, the full Greenstone Valley Walk takes about 3–4 hours return. Photographers and nature lovers might want to linger for sunset. It's an easy stop on a day trip from Arrowtown or Queenstown.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown – The historic gold-mining town is just a 15-minute drive away, with its charming Chinese settlement, boutique shops, and excellent cafés.
• Queenstown – The adventure capital is 30 minutes south, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and lake cruises.
• Glenorchy – A scenic 45-minute drive north leads to this lakeside village, gateway to the Routeburn Track and Paradise.
• Lake Wakatipu – The stunning lake offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic drives along its shores.
• Macetown – A historic ghost town accessible via a 4WD track from Arrowtown, rich in gold-rush history.

Please check official sources for current details.