About & Description

Waihi is New Zealand's Heart of Gold. We take you inside the fence for a close up look at a modern-day working gold mine.

Waihi has a fascinating gold mining history and a Waihi Gold Mine Tour is a must-do for those wanting to get up-close and personal with a modern day working gold mine. Mining operations are normally off-limits to the public, but Waihi Gold Mine Tours will take you inside the fence to experience modern gold mining and learn about Waihi's intriguing past. You’ll be fitted out with safety gear and get to view the mine from the best vantage points. You’ll see every stage of the process from ore extraction and crushing, through to final processing. There is plenty of heavy-duty mining equipment on show too. We’ll also share some colourful stories from the mine’s past and answer any questions you may have. How much gold and silver has the mighty Martha Mine yielded since it opened? How much gold is carried on each truck load of rock? Why did many miners from yesteryear had no thumbs?