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✅ Legal FossickingWest Coast Camping January to March (West Coast weather is unpredictable)
Moonlight Creek
27km north-northeast of Greymouth. Named for miners who worked by moonlight to avoid claim jumpers.
Hand Tools Only
No Permit Required
Public Access
History
Legend has it that miners here worked their claims at night by moonlight to keep discoveries secret. True or not, Moonlight Creek was a productive field in the West Coast's golden era. The bush has reclaimed most evidence of the rush.
Best Spots to Try
- 1Upstream from camping area
- 2Tributary junctions
Local Tips
The camping area makes this good for a multi-day trip. Work upstream from the camping area for less pressured ground. West Coast gold tends to be fine — bring your snuffer bottle.