Strike gold, take home.

Hokitika, West Coast NZ

Gold Panning experience

Welcome to the home of gold on the stunning West Coast of New Zealand. Nestled in the heart of Hokitika, our immersive, hands-on experiences invite you to step into the region’s rich history—where the rivers carried gold.

Whether you’re here for a family activity, a cultural experience, or a true West Coast adventure, you’ll leave with something unforgettable, and something you made yourself.

Book Now

Gold Panning Experience in Hokitika, West Coast New Zealand

Experiences

Gold Panning – Guaranteed Gold

Step back into Hokitika’s 1860s gold-rush era.

Your experience begins with a quick briefing on the history of Hokitika’s gold rush, setting the scene for how gold shaped the West Coast.

You’ll then enjoy a live demonstration of a working sluice box and gold recovery wheel, showing how miners separated gold from gravel using traditional methods.

Next, head to the panning area, scoop your own locally sourced paydirt, and learn how to swirl, shake, and reveal real West Coast gold.

Every visitor is guaranteed to find gold you can take home, set into a custom Polish & Pan wooden coaster as a unique keepsake of your experience.

Simple. Fun. Authentic. 100% locally sourced.

Groups of up to 10 per session.

Find Out More

Retail Store – Unique Gold Gifts

At the front of our space, you’ll find a retail store offering handcrafted gold products.
We also collaborate with local West Coast artisans and small businesses to create exclusive items you won’t find anywhere else, perfect as keepsakes or gifts from your Hokitika adventure.

DAILY SCHEDULE

We run staggered sessions to keep group sizes small and the experience personal.

9:00–10:00am:
Gold Panning

10:00–11:00am:
Gold Panning

11:00am–12:00pm:
Gold Panning

12:30–1:30pm:
Gold Panning

2:30–3:30pm:
Gold Panning

3:30–4:30pm:
Gold Panning

1:30pm - 2:30pm:
Gold Panning

What Others Say

"Epic new business in the heart of Hokitika, West Coast. Brook has worked hard to produce an accessible offering, suitable for the whole family - ensuring a quality of service and activity for all to enjoy."

Lucretia Maitland
“A fantasatic indoor activity in the town centre for individuals and families."

Samantha Beneke
"Awesome! Knowledgeable people who love what they do are the best. Walking away with your own gold after planning for it."

Chris Ainge
"Very amazing experience and lovely staff would recommend."

Ava Han
"Wonderful experience. Brook and Scotty were amazing with the kids. The keepsake coaster is super special."

Alex Marshall