Shantytown Heritage Park

Step back in time at Shantytown Heritage Park, a living history museum that recreates a 19th-century West Coast gold-mining town. Nestled in native bush just south of Hokitika, this open-air museum lets you pan for gold, ride a steam train, and explore faithfully reconstructed buildings. It's a hands-on journey into the region's gold rush past, perfect for families and history buffs alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Gold panning: Try your luck in the stream – any gold you find you can keep!
• Steam train ride: Chug through the bush on a vintage locomotive, a highlight for all ages.
• Historic buildings: Explore a church, schoolhouse, jail, and general store, all furnished with period details.
• Sawmill and printing press: Watch demonstrations of 19th-century machinery in action.
• Chinese settlement: Learn about the contributions of Chinese miners to the gold rush.
• Costumed interpreters: Chat with staff in period dress who bring the town to life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least half a day (3–4 hours) to fully experience the park, including the steam train loop, gold panning, and exploring the buildings. If you have a keen interest in history or are visiting with children, you could easily spend a full day here, especially if you linger over the demonstrations.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika Gorge – a short drive north, with its turquoise water and swingbridge walk.
• Hokitika town – browse jade galleries, the beach, and the Wildfoods Festival if in season.
• Lake Mahinapua – a scenic lake with walking trails and a historic pub.
• Franz Josef Glacier – about 1.5 hours south, for glacier walks and heli-hikes.
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks – about 1 hour north, famous for blowholes and layered limestone.

Please check official sources for current details.