Arrowtown

"Arrowtown is a charming and historic town located on the South Island of New Zealand, known for its rich gold-mining history, picturesque streets, and burgeoning wine scene. Here's an overview of Arrowtown, including its gold history, vineyards, and other notable features: Gold History: Arrowtown's history is deeply intertwined with the Otago gold rush of the 1860s. Gold was discovered in the Arrow River in 1862, leading to a rush of prospectors seeking their fortunes. At its peak, Arrowtown had a population of around 7,000 people, making it a bustling gold-mining settlement. The town still retains much of its historic charm, with well-preserved buildings from that era, including quaint cottages and a historic Chinese settlement. Visitors can explore Arrowtown's gold-mining heritage by visiting the Lakes District Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the town's history. The Chinese settlement provides insight into the lives of Chinese miners who came to work in the goldfields. Vineyards and Wine Scene: Arrowtown is situated in the heart of Central Otago, a region renowned for its vineyards and high-quality wines. The area's climate, with hot summers and cold winters, is ideal for grape cultivation, particularly for Pinot Noir. Several vineyards and wineries have sprung up around Arrowtown and the broader Central Otago region, making it a prime destination for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can take wine tours and tastings at the local vineyards, enjoying the picturesque views of vine-covered hills and tasting some of New Zealand's finest wines. Many vineyards also offer excellent dining options, allowing guests to pair local wines with delicious cuisine. Arrowtown Today: Arrowtown has retained its historic character while embracing modern amenities. The town's main street is lined with boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants, making it a delightful place to explore and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. In addition to its gold history and wine scene, Arrowtown is also a gateway to outdoor adventures in the stunning Central Otago region. Nearby attractions include hiking and biking trails, the beautiful Arrow River, and the opportunity to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys. Overall, Arrowtown's blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights make it a unique destination in New Zealand. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in the town's gold-mining past, indulging in fine wine and cuisine, or simply enjoying the scenic surroundings, Arrowtown offers a captivating experience for visitors. "

"Arrowtown is easily the closest and you really shouldn't skip it for any Queenstown trip, it’s only 20 minutes away! This is an old gold mining town and has to be one of New Zealands most unique towns. It’s still got all the charm, look and feel of days gone by, minus the gold. Top things to do in Arrowtown: • Wander the main street • Coffee at Wolf Coffee Roasters (+ Donuts!) • Breakfast at Chop Shop or Provisions of Arrowtown • Wander the Lake Hayes Loop Track • Golf at Millbrook Resort • Visit the Remarkable Sweet Shop • Hike Tobins Track "

"This beautiful little town is just 20 minutes from Queenstown and has a gold-mining history and a historic Chinese settlement. It was built in 1862 during the height of the Otago gold rush and even nowadays you can still go gold panning. The streets are lined with hostoric buildings and tall trees, there's some small boutiques, cafés, restaurants and bars and on Sundays you should pay the market a visit. This town is absolutely picturesque and a must-visit place. "