Macetown
Central Otago is full of gold-mining history and relics, and Macetown is one of the most intact old mining towns in Otago. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the old Department of Conservation-administered historic reserve, perhaps even panning for gold in the Arrow River. Be prepared for a rugged adventure, however you choose to get there.
The basics
The 4WD track to Macetown is very rough and challenging, so many travelers opt to join a guided half-day tour with a driver, which typically depart from Queenstown and travel via Arrowtown. If you go independently, you can camp overnight at the basic, free Macetown Campsite. The track to Macetown also connects with a challenging 3–4-day trek, the Motatapu Track: The hike follows an old route connecting Queenstown and Wānaka and overnight accommodation is in huts.
Things to know before you go
- Don’t forget to take insect repellent as the bugs can be ferocious, especially near the river.
- If you self-drive, make sure to stick to the formed tracks, as the landscape can be damaged by irresponsible drivers.
- Macetown is very remote so be aware of the potential dangers—and how far you will be from any help—if you choose to self-drive, hike, bike, or camp here.
How to get there
There’s no regular road to Macetown. You can get there via a challenging 4WD track from Arrowtown, but self-drivers should be confident on rough roads, as there are steep sections, cliffs, blind corners, and many unbridged river crossings. It’s about a 1-hour drive, depending on conditions. Alternatively, Macetown is a 3–4-hour hike from Arrowtown, or 1–2 hours on a mountain bike.
When to get there
As Macetown is located in mountainous Central Otago, it’s best to avoid visiting in the winter as there may be snow. Getting there by 4WD requires crossing the Arrow River numerous times and this may not be possible after heavy or sustained rainfall—most likely in the autumn. The area is especially beautiful in fall, and nearby Arrowtown is famous for its autumn colors.
Take a side trip to the Homeward Bound stamper battery
A challenging 45-minute hike up the Rich Burn Valley from Macetown is the Homeward Bound stamper battery. The 4-storey-high structure set into the cliffs once pounded gold out of raw quartz rock. It’s a fascinating side trip from Macetown if you’re interested in the area’s history, but be prepared: although the hike isn’t long, it is tough.
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