Lyell Creek INTEL
Lyell Creek tumbles steeply into the Buller River through the historic Lyell mining area. Big nuggets were found here historically, and the DOC-managed site combines fossicking with fascinating heritage walks through abandoned mining infrastructure.
Mission Profile
Discovery Metrics
Operational Gear
Stratigraphy & History
The Lyell goldfield was part of the broader Buller gold rush, attracting miners who also worked the famous Reefton quartz reefs. The steep terrain made the work brutal, but the gold was worth it. Today, old stamper batteries, water races, and cyanide works remain in the bush.
Geological Context
Coarse alluvial gold derived from reef erosion. The bedrock is extremely hard here — bring a heavy crevice hook. The gold accumulates in natural traps where the creek gradient changes.
Field Note
CONFIDENTIAL PRO-INTEL
Verified Sector Secret
"The Irishman's Creek junction, upstream. It always produces colour — the old-timers knew this spot well."
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.