Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a living historic settlement with many stories to tell. Wander by the restored cottages and explore gold mining sights along the  Arrow river.

One of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, Arrowtown sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River and is just 20 minutes from  Queenstown. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush. The settlement grew quickly as pioneers  constructed cottages, shops, hotels and churches, more than 60 of which can still be seen today.

A special highlight is the Chinese settlement at the edge of the river. Built by Chinese miners from 1868, this area of restored shelters and  buildings paints a picture of earlier times. The Lakes District Museum in Buckingham Street has been described as one of New Zealand’s best  small museums. A variety of entertaining exhibits presents an authentic picture of early Māori life in the Southern Lakes district, the  harsh pioneering days and the exciting gold rush era of the mid to late 1800s.

The gold days are long over (although you can still pan for gold in the river with some success), so Arrowtown’s focus is on hosting visitors.  Play a round at the challenging local golf course or take a 4WD journey to Macetown, a ghost town accessible only by wagon track, or simply  while away some time wandering the streets, café hopping, or catch a film!

Arrowtown has a range of cafes, restaurants and bars and several boutiques selling homeware, souvenirs, wool and designer clothing.