Twelve Mile Creek INTEL
Twelve Mile Creek (also known as Rich Burn or Gold Burn) is a steep, rocky stream draining into Lake Wakatipu. Fed by glacial meltwaters carrying gold from the source ranges, it was one of the first tributaries worked during the Otago rush. Historically, it yielded exceptionally chunky nuggets.
Mission Profile
Discovery Metrics
Operational Gear
Stratigraphy & History
The creek was worked intensively from 1862, with miners building water races from the surrounding hills to supply their sluice boxes. The steep terrain made large-scale mining difficult, meaning much of the upper reaches remain relatively unworked. It's one of the few Otago locations where you can still find ground that hasn't been heavily disturbed.
Geological Context
Coarse alluvial gold is trapped in the bedrock gutters formed where schist layers create natural riffles. The creek is steep and fast-flowing, so gold concentrates in pockets rather than spreading evenly. Be prepared to move large rocks to access the gutters where heavy gold settles.
Field Note
CONFIDENTIAL PRO-INTEL
Verified Sector Secret
"Walk 1 hour upstream past the gorge. The ancient river terrace on the true left holds unworked ground — look for clay layers."
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.