Waiuta Historic Mine and Town

Waiuta Historic Mine and Town is a fascinating destination located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island.

Once a bustling mining settlement, Waiuta is now considered a ghost town, but it still holds a lot of historical significance and attracts many tourists every year. The town was home to the South Island's largest gold mine from 1906 to 1951, and it produced nearly 750,000 ounces of gold from 1.5 million tons of ore. Waiuta is located 58 km north of Greymouth and 21 km south of Reefton in Ikamatua, New Zealand.

The town was abandoned after the collapse of the mine in 1951, but a number of buildings still remain, and there are still residents in what remains of the town. Nowadays, Waiuta is managed as a historic site for many tourists to visit, as very few buildings still remain. Visitors to Waiuta can explore the town's rich history and learn about the mining industry that once thrived there. The town offers overnight stays at the Waiuta lodge, where families can stay for as long as they wish. Tour guides are part of a group called “Friends of Waiuta” which was formed in 1985 to teach tourists the town’s history.

Waiuta is a popular destination for those interested in history and ghost towns. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and visitors can explore the remains of the old mining town, including the mine shaft, the old schoolhouse, and the miners' cottages. The town is also home to the Waiuta Gold Mine, which offers tours to visitors. In summary, Waiuta Historic Mine and Town is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and the mining industry. The town's rich history and beautiful natural surroundings make it a fascinating and unique destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the remains of the old mining town, learn about the town's history from tour guides, and stay overnight at the Waiuta lodge.