Take this journey into a land of outstanding natural beauty, with rich gold mining history!

Have exclusive access to Winky’s Museum, the Sainsbury Gold Claim AND give gold panning a try on your own.

The Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour begins with a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon via the infamous Skippers Canyon Road which was carved out of the vertical rock face by miners over 120yrs ago. With on board commentary from our knowledgeable drivers you will learn of the history of the area including the hardships endured by the miners who battled the harsh New Zealand conditions to extract gold from the richest gold bearing river in the world as well as experiencing Lord of the Rings locations first hand.

Once in the canyon you will be given an exclusive tour of Winky’s Museum set in the scenic surrounds of the Sainsbury Gold Claim, giving you an insight into the many techniques and types of equipment used by the miners as the area plays host to a vast array of relics that were used during the gold rush itself. Then after some complimentary refreshments it’s your chance to strike it rich by panning for your own gold.