Find gold panning places in NZ.

Choose a region. Learn before you leave.

The Arrow River near Arrowtown in autumn — Arrow River · Bernard Spragg · CC0. Photo shows the setting, not a permitted boundary.

Otago Nelson West Coast Marlborough Coromandel

Choose with more than a pin.

Ten place profiles with designation PDFs, approach notes, a useful field exercise and clear unknowns.

Three places to start your research.

Listed by DOC. Open the official map and check the exact area before planning a visit. Source checked 3 November 2026; closures and approaches need a fresh check.

Arrow River

Near Arrowtown. Start with the designated-area map.

DOC area number 42022

Read place notes Official map: search 42022

Gabriel’s Gully

Near Lawrence. Read the historic-reserve guidance too.

DOC area number 42033

Read place notes Official map: search 42033

Nelson Creek

West Coast. Check the boundary and current local notices.

DOC area number 42010

Read place notes Official map: search 42010

Source: DOC gold fossicking list

New to panning?

The free NZ Quick-Start covers a small kit, a simple panning method and the checks to make before leaving home.

Read the guide without signing up

Take a plan with you.

Compare the NZ Starter Guide and Weekend Warrior Pack. Both are PDFs you can save before leaving reception.

Look inside the field packs

The directory includes historic sites and research locations as well as fossicking areas. A listing is not permission to dig. Check current boundaries, landowner permission, permitted tools and conditions with the relevant authority before your trip.