This is one of the most spectacular gorges you will see in New Zealand; a truly world class attraction, in both summer and winter. In the early 1900's over 100 gold dredges worked the large Kawarau River .

The land is steep, dry, rugged and barren. Slips are common as the banks erode.

The Kawarau river is deadly and unpredictable. It is still carving its path as well as sorting and distributing the region's illusive gold.

We experience a wealth of human history and geography as we travel through this remarkable arena. Ancient bridges, historic diggings, power station, ghost towns, dilapidated relics.

A large number of scenes from here were seen in the "Lord of the Rings"

Studies: geography groups follow the formation and development processes.  The  history here tells of human endeavour wealth, poverty and desperate sadness.

See also
Rivers