It began as a mining settlement in 1862 after sailor William Fox discovered gold in the Arrow River. By the end of the year, more than 1500 miners had set up camp along the river.
Macetown was named after three brothers, John, Charles and Harry Mace, who worked their way up the narrow river gorge until it widened into a terrace.Before long, more miners settled in the small town, setting up tents and shantys. An abundance of rocks and lack of timber meant almost all of the houses and huts were built of stones or sods. Chimneys were dotted throughout the village, as 2000 feet above sea level, it was very cold in winter and mild in summer.
The population grew rapidly and there soon became a need for more businesses. With a peak population of about 3000, there were four stores, four hotels, a school, post office and bakery to service the town. To help provide milk to the town, goats were introduced. Some time later, a few families also acquired cows and poultry. After a while, as there were more cows, the goats were left to roam the hills. As a result, goats are prolific in the area these days. In 1870, a first official map survey of the township was completed. For the first time, residents were able to purchase sections in the township. But soon after, the gold rush was declared over. Much of the population moved on to other gold fields or ventures.
Only about 300 people remained along with two stores, two hotels. a drapery store, the blacksmith and post office. There was also a small Chinese community in Macetown, which was based near the end of the main street in an area known as “Chinatown.”
It was the southern most Chinese settlement in the world. The population continued to dwindle and eventually there was nothing left int he town but the remnants of what once was. These days, a walk, horse ride or 4WD ride is the only way to Macetown. The road crosses the Arrow River or its side rivers 22 times and is not suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles. (as described in travel pack information stuff.co.nz)
