Ross Goldfield Water Race Walkway

This walk is a great option for kids - with tunnels and other gold mining relics there is plenty to keep them interested.

From the car park at the Ross Goldfields Information and Heritage Centre; the Ross Goldfield Water Race Walkway follows Mt Greenland Road for about 15 minutes before turning onto a sign posted forest track on the right side of the road.

The track climbs to an old water race and then follows this through regenerating native forest, passing numerous old gold workings including tunnels, several dam sites and a replica miner's hut. After passing through the original Ross Cemetery, the walkway follows the same track as the Ross Cemetery Walk and exits at the top of St James Street, with a short walk back to the car park.

This is a walk that people of a medium to low level of fitness can enjoy.

Ross township is 30 km south of Hokitika on SH6. Start these walks from Ross Goldfields Information and Heritage Centre at the end of Aylmer Street, where you can check for up-to-date track conditions.

Gold fossicking

Ross has an extensive gold mining history. Relics of the gold rush are apparent throughout the Historic Goldfields area.

Jones Creek, next to the Mount Greenland Road, is where you can fossick for gold. Signs on site show the area and the fossicking rules that apply

Call in and ask at the Ross Goldfields Information and Heritage Centre for further information.

You can only fossick for gold in designated areas. Only hand-held tools are allowed. More on gold fossicking areas and rules.