Macetown 4WD Adventure – Full Day Guided Tour from Queenstown

Arrowtown, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (66 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Pickup from central Queenstown accommodations is included. Surround suburbs (Kelvin Heights, Frankton, Arthur's Point, Fernhill and others) by arrangement. Please contact to reconfirm pick up arrangement and time.
  • inclusion
    Entrance fees
  • inclusion
    Driver/guide
  • inclusion
    Snacks
  • inclusion
    Transport by 4WD vehicle

Meeting Point

Wait outside our Nomad Safaris shop at 37 Shotover Street for the 4WD vehicle to pick you up.

Meeting point

37 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300 , New Zealand

End point

End Point

Wait outside our Nomad Safaris shop at 37 Shotover Street for the 4WD vehicle to pick you up.

Meeting point

37 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300 , New Zealand

End point

What to expect

1
Arrowtown Village

Enjoy the scenic drive from Queenstown to the quaint historic Arrowtown Village.

Duration 45 minutes
2

Lakes District Museum & Art Gallery

Explore the Museum with a brief visit and experience the history of the Gold Mining era.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Macetown

Arrive at Macetown for a picnic lunch and relic exploration while soaking up the backcountry views.

Duration 60 minutes
4

Macetown

Walk for 90 minutes return through wild alpine terrain to the towering, four-story Homeward Bound Battery - a powerful remnant of gold mining ingenuity

Duration 90 minutes
5
Arrowtown

Try your luck at gold panning in the Arrow River with hands-on instruction.

Duration 30 minutes
6

Arrow River

Follow the miners’ old wagon trail and explore the historic gold mining town of Macetown. Long since abandoned after the gold rush, Macetown has now been transformed into a Department of Conservation reserve. Experience the narrow, rugged road in safety with a Nomad Safaris tour.

Duration 60 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Minimum numbers apply (min 2 per tour for confirmed departure, min 4 on NZ public holidays). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions unless the river is too high. Dress appropriately for comfort and the 90 minute walk.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What our experts say

  • icon
    Dress in layers for changing weather
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    Try gold panning at Arrow River
  • icon
    Visit Arrowtown for local history
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    Enjoy fresh cookies during the tour
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    Bring a camera for stunning views

More About this Experience

Introduction

Get ready for a thrilling adventure with the Macetown 4WD Tour from Queenstown. This tour takes you on a real off-road experience, exploring the historic gold mining town of Macetown. Once a booming gold rush town, Macetown is now a Department of Conservation reserve, accessible only by 4WD vehicles. Brace yourself for an exciting journey as you navigate through over 25 river crossings and wind your way from river level to high above the Arrow Gorge. Along the way, you'll be treated to ever-changing views and the opportunity to try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River.

What to expect?

Embark on a rugged 4WD adventure that will take you back in time to the gold rush era. As you traverse the challenging terrain, you'll experience the thrill of crossing rivers and witnessing breathtaking views. The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the historic Macetown, a ghost town that holds the secrets of New Zealand's gold mining past. With the guidance of a knowledgeable driver/guide, you'll learn about the town's fascinating history and immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to try your luck at gold panning in the Arrow River, just like the prospectors of old.

Who is this for?

The Macetown 4WD Tour is perfect for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, this tour offers something for everyone. The captivating journey and the opportunity to explore a ghost town will intrigue history buffs, while the off-road adventure will satisfy thrill-seekers. Nature enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes and the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Arrow Gorge. This tour is suitable for anyone with a sense of adventure and a desire to uncover the hidden gems of New Zealand's gold mining history.

Why book this?

What sets the Macetown 4WD Tour apart is its unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. This tour offers a rare opportunity to visit a Department of Conservation reserve that is only accessible by 4WD vehicles. The thrill of crossing multiple river crossings and the ever-changing views along the way make this an unforgettable experience. The chance to explore the historic Macetown and try gold panning in the Arrow River adds a touch of excitement and authenticity to the tour. With a knowledgeable driver/guide to lead the way, you can rest assured that you'll be in safe hands while immersing yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes of the region.

Good to know

When booking the Macetown 4WD Tour, you can expect to be picked up from your central Queenstown accommodation. If you're staying in surrounding suburbs such as Kelvin Heights, Frankton, Arthur's Point, or Fernhill, arrangements can be made for pickup as well. Light refreshments, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, fruit cake, and cookies, will be provided during the tour to keep you energized. It's important to note that gratuities are not included, so you may want to show your appreciation to the driver/guide for their exceptional service. Get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Reviews

Reviews from individuals who have taken the Macetown 4WD Tour rave about the unique experience it offers. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly driver/guides who provide fascinating insights into the gold rush era and Macetown's history. The breathtaking views and the excitement of crossing the river multiple times have been highlighted as major highlights of the tour. Many have also expressed their delight in trying their luck at gold panning in the Arrow River, feeling like true prospectors for a day. Overall, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with travelers describing the Macetown 4WD Tour as a thrilling and unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of New Zealand's gold mining history.

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