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✅ Legal FossickingMarlborough Year-round (small creek, stable flow)
Louis Creek
4km west of Howard. Features an informative interpretation panel about gold mining history in the region.
Hand Tools Only
No Permit Required
Public Access
History
The Howard district saw gold mining from the 1860s onwards. Louis Creek was one of several small creeks worked by individual miners and small parties rather than large operations.
Best Spots to Try
- 1Bedrock sections
- 2Below the interpretation panel area
Local Tips
Read the interpretation panel first — it gives good context. The creek is small but concentrates gold in predictable spots. Good for a few hours' panning, not a full day. Combine with other Nelson spots.