Ross Goldfields

Step into New Zealand's gold-rush past at the Ross Goldfields, where the West Coast's rugged beauty meets a rich history of fortune-seeking. This small, evocative site near the town of Ross offers a hands-on glimpse into the 1860s gold fever that shaped the region. You can try your luck panning for gold in the creek, explore historic mining relics, and wander through the surrounding native bush that has reclaimed much of the landscape. It's a peaceful, atmospheric spot that feels a world away from modern life.

Highlights & What to See

• Gold Panning: Try your hand at panning for gold in the designated area—you might find a few tiny flakes to take home as a souvenir. Equipment is available for hire or purchase at the Ross Information Centre.
• Historic Mining Relics: Explore the remnants of stamper batteries, water races, and old mining tunnels that dot the site, offering a tangible connection to the gold-rush era.
• Ross Historic Walk: Combine your visit with a stroll through the town of Ross, which features historic buildings, a cemetery with Chinese gold miners' graves, and the famous 'Empress of the World' gold nugget replica.
• Native Bush Walks: The surrounding forest is crisscrossed with short walking tracks, where you can spot birdlife and lush ferns in a serene setting.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1–2 hours to explore the goldfields, pan for gold, and walk the historic trails. If you're keen on gold panning, budget extra time—it's surprisingly addictive. The site is compact, so you can easily combine it with a visit to Ross town and its attractions in half a day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika: A 40-minute drive north, this vibrant town offers more gold-rush history, greenstone (pounamu) galleries, and the stunning Hokitika Gorge.
• Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers: About 1.5 hours south, these iconic glaciers provide spectacular walks, helicopter tours, and glacier views.
• Haast Pass: Heading south, the Haast Pass highway offers dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, and short walks through rainforest.
• Lake Mahinapua: A peaceful lake just south of Hokitika, perfect for a picnic, swim, or short kayak trip.

Please check official sources for current details.