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✅ Legal FossickingNelson Summer months when water is lowest
New Creek
5km northwest of Rotoroa. A smaller, less-visited site that rewards those willing to explore.
Hand Tools Only
No Permit Required
Public Access
History
New Creek was a minor goldfield that saw sporadic activity during the Nelson rushes. It never supported a large population but individual miners worked the creek for years.
Best Spots to Try
- 1Root systems along banks
- 2Small pools behind rocks
Local Tips
Rarely crowded — you'll likely have the creek to yourself. Small water volume means low-flow panning techniques work best. Look for gold trapped in root systems along the banks.