Coromandel THAMES GOLDMINE EXPERIENCE, THINGS TO DO from explore underground mining tunnels, hear the roar of a stamper battery in operation or try your hand at panning for gold.
TOP THINGS TO DO – THAMES GOLDMINE EXPERIENCE IN A REAL GOLDMINE

- Listen to a massive stamper battery fully operateral with salvaged parts is turned on. The noise is thunderous and the town had over 100 stamper batteries operating continuously.
- Explore the narrow underground mining tunnels in a former gold mine.
- Get a glimpse into the hardship of gold mining operations with cyanide a constant health threat to the real danger of tunnel collapse.
- Hear about stories how 12 year boys worked three months at a time underground.
- Join a guided tour takes visitors into the tunnels of one of the richest goldmines of the time as well introduces visitors to an operational 19th century Stamper Battery.
- A self-guided tour allows you to explore the photographic museum, view a video presentation, discover mining relics and see steam-powered machines.

The mine known as Shotover produced over 102,353oz of bullion. From 1868 to 1871 was the strike it rich years for Thames with gold production topping one million pounds sterling at its peak. Official figures for production of the Thames Mines recorded a yield of 2,327,619oz bullion with a value of $845 million.

Thames GoldMine Experience tour takes 40 – 50 minutes. The tour equips visitors with a hard hat and the tunnels are well lit. Wear closed footwear as the ground can be slippery.
The tunnels are narrow and underground. If you are uncomfortable in small, confined dark spaces consider whether the tour is suitable.
The town is part and parcel of the history of nineteenth century gold mining and timber (Kauri) logging. Due to a decline in gold mining and cessation of timber production the town’s nineteenth century buildings have withstood wholesale destruction. The town’s urban landscape is the story of New Zealand’s urban development with all the layers clearly visible.
THAMES GOLDMINE EXPERIENCE LOCATION
Tararu Road, Thames 3500
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