Overview
Arrowtown is a picturesque gold mining village in the Wakatipu Basin, 20 minutes from Queenstown. It survives on its determinedly preserved heritage—miners' cottages, wooden buildings, tree-lined streets, and 19th-century-style shops stand much as they did during the gold rush.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Accommodation is boutique-focused: B&Bs, historic cottages, New Orleans Hotel rooms, motels, and the Arrowtown Born of Gold Holiday Park for budget travelers.
Activities
Walking tracks (Tobin's Track, Big Hill, Sawpit Gully), gold panning at the museum, fishing in the Arrow River, and 4WD trips to Macetown.
Food
Arrowtown Bakery is famous for gourmet pies. Saffron offers fine dining. Mains at The Fork and Tap average around $25 NZD.
Money
New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Transport
Arrowtown is a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. No direct public transit; visitors need a rental car or organized tour.
