A Glimpse of an Original Goldfield in the Nevis Valley
The Nevis Valley is a remote, hidden valley located in the backcountry of Central Otago, New Zealand. Extending from Cromwell to the small town of Garston, near Lake Wakatipu, the Nevis valley rises 1,300 metres over Duffers Saddle and exists over a pass in the Hector Mountains.
Nevis Valley
Central Otago, New Zealand
The valley offers a variety of terrain, accessible by four-wheel drives and trail bikes.
The first use of the Nevis Valley was as a trail route for the Maori. When the gold rush arrived in the 1860s, two small settlements appeared in the lower Nevis. Now only the family at Ben Nevis Station occupies the valley.
Due to the remoteness of the valley, miners' workings have been left largely untouched and now provide an excellent representation of an original goldfield. These remains include everything from the cemetery and settlement buildings through to a woolshed and the first ski hut.
Nevis Valley Activities
The Nevis Valley attractions and activities include:
- Four-wheel driving
- Trail biking
- Horse trekking
- Bungy jumping
- Historical sites
NB: Remember the Nevis Valley is very remote and can be subject to harsh conditions. The section between Bannockburn and Garston can be very rough with numerous fords. Travelling as a group and with adequate supplies is advised.
The road through the Nevis Valley is closed for the winter from early June to 30th September.
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