West Coast Gold Fossicking
Wild, wet, and gold-rich. The West Coast offers the most authentic NZ prospecting experience.
The Wild West Coast
The West Coast gold rush began in 1864 when gold was discovered at Greenstone, near Hokitika. Within two years, Hokitika was the busiest port in New Zealand — busier than Auckland or Wellington — as 30,000 diggers flooded in.
The Coast produced an enormous amount of gold. Reefton became the first town in New Zealand (and one of the first in the world) to have electric street lighting, powered entirely by gold mining wealth.
Today, the West Coast remains the wildest prospecting region in NZ. Expect rain, dense bush, and isolation. But also expect gold — the rivers here are still productive.
Fossicking Areas on the Coast
Moonlight Creek
Camping27km north-northeast of Greymouth. Named for miners who worked by moonlight to avoid claim jumpers.
Nelson Creek
Camping26km east-northeast of Greymouth. Popular with both beginners and experienced prospectors for its reliable gold.
Jones Creek
Camping0.5km southwest of Ross. The most well-equipped site with a visitor centre, walking tracks, and interpretation panels.
Waiho River
Located near Franz Josef. Glacial gold deposits in a stunning alpine setting with Mount Cook views.
Shamrock Creek
Camping14km northeast of Hokitika. Features shelters and fireplaces for overnight stays — perfect for a prospecting weekend.
Slab Hut Creek
Camping7km southwest of Reefton. Excellent walking tracks through historic mining country with camping and fire facilities.
Stony & Britannia Streams
Camping17km northeast of Westport. Twin streams with good alluvial gold prospects and pleasant camping.
West Coast Prospecting Tips
- • Expect rain: The Coast gets 5+ meters of rain per year — bring waterproofs
- • Sandflies: They're legendary here. Bring repellent and cover up
- • Fine gold: West Coast gold is often very fine — use good mats
- • Check DOC alerts: Some tracks close in winter or after storms