Back to Map
✅ Legal FossickingOtago Camping November to March (lower water, warmer weather)
Arrow River
The most famous and accessible fossicking site in New Zealand. Located in historic Arrowtown, this was the heart of the 1860s gold rush.
Hand Tools Only
No Permit Required
Public Access
History
The Arrow River gold rush began in 1862 when William Fox discovered payable gold. Within weeks, thousands of miners flooded the valley. The Chinese miners' settlement at the river's edge is now a protected historic site. At its peak, Arrowtown had over 7,000 residents.
Best Spots to Try
- 1Below the old stone bridge
- 2The Willows section
- 3Inside bend near Chinese settlement
Local Tips
Work the willow roots near the old bridge — gold gets trapped in the root systems. The inside bend below the Chinese settlement is historically productive. Visit after heavy rain when fresh gold is exposed. Avoid weekends in summer; it gets crowded.