Get ready for the ghost town gold rush

A tortuous trail, once the path of packhorses and men on foot, leads to a ghost town from the gold rush era near Queenstown.

Macetown is a remote settlement where settlers' homes and machinery still stand abandoned.

But be prepared for a rugged ride to get there. Twenty-five river crossings are part of the four-wheel-drive journey, which New Zealand Nomad Safaris makes twice a day, every day of the year. The trail winds from river level to high above the Arrow Gorge, and goldpanning is all part of the adventure.

Four-hour tours cost $75 an adult and $50 for children.

Contact: Outback New Zealand, Queenstown, ph (03) 442 7386, fax (03) 442 7346, e-mail 4WD@outback.net.nz

Outback New Zealand