Mining Museums and Displays
- Goldfields Mining Centre – Located on the banks of the spectacular Kawarau River, Central Otago, the Goldfields Mining Centre is an historic reserve set aside by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation to preserve an authentic mining site where gold has been mined for over 100 years and can still be found in the rocks & gravels of this unique area.
- Goldmine Experience Thames – In the historic goldmining town of Thames, Coromandel Peninsula, the Goldmine Experience has guided and self-guided tours through operating 19th century gold-mining machinery and an underground visit into one of the richest goldmines of the time. There is also, a large photo display of early hotels and mines. Try your luck at gold panning.
- Shanty Town Heritage Park – a leading New Zealand culture and heritage attraction. Made up of over 30 historic buildings it is a faithfully recreated 19th century gold rush town with a fascinating mix of experience and displays.
- Thames School of Mines – Step back in time to the 1880s and learn about the history and science of gold mining. Also see the mineral museum, one of the most significant mineralogical collections in the southern hemisphere.
- Waihi Arts Centre and Museum ‘Where the real gold lies’ – presents the history of the gold mining era (1880’s – 1950’s) in the Karangahake and Waihi area. Also features a regularly changing series of local and travelling art and craft exhibitions.
- Coaltown – in Westport this heritage experience tells the story of industry and development in this unique Northern West Coast environment. The museum takes you on a journey through gold rush days to settling of the district and the early development of the mining industry, the lifestyle/living conditions of its people, the geology of coal, extraction and transport.