Ross: Gold History and Historic Trails

Ross has a gold-mining history that can be explored at several specific sites and along its trails. Ross’s alluvial goldfields were New Zealand’s most productive between 1865 and 1914. The Ross Historic Area is at the heart of the visitor experience. The Ross Goldfields Information & Heritage Centre is a key source of information on mining history and the region. Together, they give Ross a strong historical focus, complemented by opportunities for gold panning, walking and cycling.

Gold History at the Museum

The small museum at the Ross Goldfields Information & Heritage Centre displays a replica of The Hon Roddy, New Zealand’s largest gold nugget, which was found in Ross in 1909. The exhibits also include models, artefacts, photographs and old newspaper articles. Gold panning is available indoors at the centre; visitors can take home gold flakes and a little jade. The centre also offers a quiz about the Ross Goldfields Heritage Trail. Ask on site about its current availability and operating arrangements. The centre is at the southern end of Aylmer Street.

Bell Tower and Mining Machinery

The Ross Bell Tower is a historic landmark in Ross. Its current brass bell was cast at a foundry in Glasgow in 1868 and donated to the Ross community by the Hokitika Fire Brigade in 1874. The tower has been restored and rebuilt; the bell is rung on special occasions. In the Ross Historic Area, information panels with historic photographs explain the mining machinery. This brings the history of gold mining to life both through the museum’s collection and the machinery in the Historic Area.

Walking and Cycling Trails

The Ross Goldfield Water Race Walkway passes through regenerating native forest and by tunnels, several dam sites and a replica miner’s hut. It is considered a particularly suitable option for children. The West Coast Wilderness Trail starts and ends in Ross. Between Greymouth and Ross, the trail is divided into four sections of about 30 kilometres each. Check current trail conditions before setting out on a cycling trip.

Near Ross, the tussock-covered heights of Mount Greenland offer views in all directions when visibility is clear. The Mount Greenland Track is a challenging cycling route; in places, the trail is very boggy and extremely slippery when wet. The site of a former miners’ village lies beyond the summit. The trip there takes several additional hours and is not recommended as a day walk. The activities therefore differ both in route type and in the conditions described: the Water Race Walkway is considered particularly suitable for children, while the Mount Greenland Track is described as a challenging cycling route.

Ross on the Map

Ross is on State Highway 6, 30 kilometres south of Hokitika. This gives the town a clear geographical context, while its goldfields history, Bell Tower and trails offer different focuses for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Bruce Bay, Whataroa, Franz Josef Glacier, Kokatahi, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Otira, Kakapotahi

For the main travel overview: Westland District.