For a strong sense of the area’s history, visit the Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown – a former goldmining town. The museum has an interactive focus and presents an authentic picture of early Maori life and the pioneering days of European settlers and goldminers. The displays are housed in 3 historic buildings and cover 2 floors. Try your hand at gold panning in the river for a nominal fee.

Phone: +64 3 442 1824