Towns
Arrowtown
Nestled into the hills, on the banks of the Arrow River, Arrowtown (Kā-Muriwai) is located on the eastern side of the Whakatipu Basin — a charming historic town dating back to the gold rush, that is rich with natural beauty, history and culture.
Arrowtown has a strong connection with the outdoors, with hiking, biking and running tracks and trails on the doorstep, and golf courses and ski fields nearby. Arrowtown forms the start or finish point for many of the Queenstown Trails, and is a popular destination for a mid-ride break, or to celebrate after an adventure.
Arrowtown is brimming with award-winning cafes and restaurants, boutique shops, galleries, and accommodation.
History
Arrowtown is also known by local Māori as Kā-Muriwai, a name which references the three waterways, one of which is the Arrow River or Haehaenui. Haehaenui means 'big scratches' and refers to the marks left by weka as they fossicked for food.
Local shearer Jack Tewa is credited with discovering gold in the Arrow River in 1862. Hundreds of miners flocked to the area hoping to find their fortune and by the end of 1862, there were over 1,500 miners camped on the banks of the Arrow River.
The gold-mining history is still visible today with dozens of historical buildings and features remaining in the town centre and surrounding landscape.
The Lakes District Museum & Gallery breathes life into the history of the region, with recreations, artefacts and accounts of life during the gold rush. The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement — a cluster of partially restored cottages and huts that housed a bustling community of Chinese miners during the gold rush — is well worth a visit.
Trails
Arrowtown is the gateway to Mahu Whenua, a 55,000 hectare eco-sanctuary that boasts stunning hiking and biking through dramatic alpine landscapes. There is a vast and varied offering of hiking, walking, running and biking trails — from gentle river-side rambles to multi-day alpine expeditions.
Arrowtown forms the start/finish point of several of the Queenstown Trails, making it a great base for your trail adventures, as well as an ideal recovery destination to visit mid-ride. The Countryside Trail links Arrowtown to Frankton and Waiwhakaata Lake Hayes. The Wharehuanui Trail travels along the foot of Coronet Peak to Arthurs Point (and access to the epic mountain biking trails of Coronet Peak). The Arrow River Bridges Trail heads towards Gibbston and is a popular day-ride for those wishing to sample the incredible wine offering of the region. For those looking for a challenging backcountry epic, the Coronet Loop starts and finishes in Arrowtown — one of the best cross-country rides in New Zealand.
1. Eat & Drink
Local cafes, gastropubs, and acclaimed restaurants — Arrowtown's sumptuous food scene has something for everyone. If you're starting or refuelling during your trail adventure, there are plenty of options for food on the go, and at the end of the day, enjoy a hearty recovery celebration to toast your time on the trails.
2. Arts & Culture
Explore the history and culture of the region at the Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown. For art lovers, there are galleries, studios and the self-guided Arrowtown Arts Trail. Dorothy Brown's, a small boutique cinema, showcases a combination of art-house and mainstream movies.
3. Autumn Festival
The Arrowtown Autumn Festival is an iconic local event set against the backdrop of breath-taking autumn colour. Festival offerings include the famous Pie, Pint & Pinot, Parade, Market Day, live performances and exhibitions.
4. Motatapu
The iconic Motatapu Event — your once-a-year chance to ride, run, or walk through some of New Zealand's most stunning and untouched high country between Wanaka and Arrowtown. From scenic yet challenging mountain biking to breath-taking trail runs and walks, there are course options to suit everyone.
5. Gold Panning
Gold can still be found in the banks of the Arrow River. If you feel lucky, grab a gold pan and head to the river — just a two-minute walk from town. Several stores including the Museum hire gold pans for the day, and some shops have a panning trough to give you the tips and tricks of gold panning. A fun activity for all ages.
6. Walking, Hiking & Biking
There are hundreds of kilometres of walking, hiking and biking trails for a variety of abilities, confidence levels and durations.
7. Macetown
A remote and abandoned mining town located 15km from Arrowtown, Macetown can be reached by bike, on foot or 4WD. Macetown is a short side-trip from the Coronet Loop, and includes the ruins of the town, some restored buildings and remnants of the mining industry.
Stay, play & explore around
Arrowtown
A Foodie's Paradise
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