Step back in time on an unforgettable Macetown 4WD Tour, where New Zealand’s gold rush history meets adrenaline-pumping off-road adventure.
Departing Queenstown at 8:30 AM, your day kicks off with a visit to the Arrowtown Museum. Gain insight into life during the gold rush era and the fascinating history of the miners who once braved this rugged region.
From there, the real adventure begins. Buckle up for a thrilling 4WD journey following the original miners’ wagon trail up to the historic Macetown settlement. Now a Department of Conservation reserve, Macetown is a ghost town with little remaining of its bustling past — but its stories live on through the land.
Prepare to tackle up to 25 river crossings along the narrow, winding Arrow River Road. The scenery is jaw-dropping, with steep hills, dense native bush, and crystal-clear streams at every turn.
On arrival, the Macetown 4WD Tour includes a guided walk to the impressive Homeward Bound Stamper Battery. Towering four stories high against the Otago hills, this industrial relic once pulverized quartz rock to extract gold — testament to the grit and ingenuity of the early pioneers. Half of New Zealand’s gold production came from stamper batteries like this one.
In late spring and summer, the surrounding lupins bloom in stunning shades of purple and pink, creating some of the most photogenic landscapes in the region.
After exploring Macetown, enjoy a light lunch and morning refreshments in the heart of this remote valley. On the return journey, you’ll tackle the same river crossings and have a chance to try your luck at gold panning in the Arrow River — just like the old prospectors.
The Macetown 4WD Tour is perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, and photographers alike, offering a memorable mix of off-road thrills, natural beauty, and gold rush heritage.
Duration: 6 hours
Includes: Return 4WD transport, museum visit, light lunch, morning refreshments, professional guide, guided walk to stamper battery, gold panning
Supplier: Nomad Safaris
