Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic village located in Arrowtown, New Zealand, and is a popular tourist attraction.

The settlement was established by Chinese people during the Otago Gold Rush of the 1860s. The Chinese miners who lived in the area contributed significantly to the region's gold mining, cultural, and social history, and the settlement serves as a mute reminder and tribute to their contribution.

The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is situated on the banks of Bush Creek, which is a tributary of the Arrow River. The settlement is a mixture of stabilised hut ruins, reconstructions, and restorations. The most prominent building in the settlement is Ah Lum's Store, which is a category 1 listed building through Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Ah Lum is a well-known example of the Chinese miners who lived in the area.

The Chinese settlement arose in the 1860s as Chinese workers were imported to work the gold mines. They came because they could earn money here to send home. The settlement is now a common tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the restored huts and buildings, which provide a glimpse into the lives of the Chinese miners who lived and worked in the area. The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a unique and fascinating destination for history buffs and anyone interested in the cultural and social history of the region. Visitors can learn about the lives of the Chinese miners who lived in the area, explore the restored huts and buildings, and gain insight into the region's gold mining history.