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✅ Legal FossickingNelson Camping November to March
Aorere River (Area A)
15km southwest of Collingwood. A scenic golden sand river with easy access and good family facilities.
Hand Tools Only
No Permit Required
Public Access
History
The Aorere was one of the earliest goldfields in New Zealand, worked from the late 1850s. It never produced the spectacular finds of Otago but supported a steady population of miners for decades. The river still yields fine gold.
Best Spots to Try
- 1Inside river bends
- 2Gravel bars in lower section
Local Tips
The golden sand is characteristic of this area — it makes spotting gold harder than in darker gravel. Use a black pan. Work the inside bends where the current slows. Good swimming spots nearby for a break.