Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve

Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Bannockburn, New Zealand.

This historic reserve is located near the small settlement of Bannockburn on the southern side of the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan, about six kilometers southwest of Cromwell, in Central Otago, New Zealand. The reserve contains extensive examples of alluvial gold mining, with a number of mining techniques represented including tunnelling, ground sluicing, and hydraulic sluicing. Beginning in the early 1860s, gold mining in the Bannockburn area continued for 50 years.

Visitors can explore the impact of this mining along a four-kilometer easy track through the Bannockburn Sluicings Historical Reserve, taking around two hours to complete. The Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve is signposted on the left after 1.7 kilometers, and there is a large parking area. The start of the Bannockburn Sluicing Historic Reserve is to the left of the notice boards. The reserve offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's gold mining history.

Visitors can see mini buttes, scarred cliffs, and deserted relics left by gold miners. The vanished landscape of the Bannockburn Sluicings is New Zealand's own wild west. The reserve includes a well-signposted two-hour return walk that takes you through the historical points of interest. Along the walk, a series of information panels explain the history of the monuments you are looking at, which includes tunnels and mine shafts. Visitors should note that there is no toilet or water in the car park. The reserve is a free walk in Cromwell, and it is open year-round.

In conclusion, Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve is a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in New Zealand's gold mining history. Visitors can explore the impact of gold mining along a four-kilometer easy track through the reserve, taking around two hours to complete. The reserve is a free walk in Cromwell, and it is open year-round.