Arrow River INTEL
The Arrow River is one of New Zealand's most iconic alluvial goldfields and the birthplace of modern-day recreational gold panning in Otago. Gold was first discovered here in late 1862 by shearer Jack Tewa, triggering a rush that would see 1,500 miners camped along its banks within months. By January 1863, the first gold escort transported an astonishing 340kg of gold from the Arrow alone.
Mission Profile
Discovery Metrics
Operational Gear
Stratigraphy & History
The Arrow River goldfield shaped the town of Arrowtown and played a pivotal role in New Zealand's colonial economy. After European miners exhausted the easy alluvial gold by the mid-1860s, the Otago Provincial Council invited Chinese miners from Australia to rework the tailings. These skilled prospectors established a settlement on Bush Creek that remains preserved today as a heritage site. At its peak, the Chinese community numbered over 100, living in stone huts and operating stores along the riverbank.
Geological Context
The gold here is fine "flour" gold derived from ancient alluvial deposits laid down by glacial action. It concentrates behind large boulders on inside river bends, often sitting on a false bedrock of blue clay about 30cm below the surface. Use a 50-mesh classifier for best results. After floods, fresh gold is deposited on gravel bars near Ramshaw Lane and the Chinese settlement area.
Field Note
CONFIDENTIAL PRO-INTEL
Verified Sector Secret
"Drive 800m up the 4WD track past the ford. Dig the gravel bar on the true left where the river widens — locals call it "the beach.""
Economic Potential
Historical yield data suggests unrecovered fines at depth. Optimal for small-scale suction or high-banking if permitted.
Trade Gold
Leverage spot price movements globally while you're in the field.