Established in 1906 as a company town to exploit a major gold discovery, Waiuta thrived until 1951. Today, remnants of mining relics and a handful of buildings, like the police station and cottages, remain.
On the road to Waiuta, you may be intrigued to pull over and take a look through the historic Blackwater School. This charming, one-room schoolhouse, built in 1913, offers a glimpse into the past.
The Lyric Theatre showcases community spirit and is Granity’s vibrant cultural hub. Built in 1956 by the Granity Silver Band, the art deco theatres very foundation is entwined with the history of the local people.
Currently, just opposite its original location, the building known as ‘Custom House’ has been a prominent feature of the Hokitika township for over 100 years.
The trials and successes of the local miners and their families are intertwined with the history of Runanga Miners Hall, which spans over a hundred years.
Recreated 19th-century gold mining town operating as an open-air museum. Offering heritage train rides, gold panning & family-friendly heritage experiences.
Driven by the Lands and Survey Department’s need for larger premises, Government Architect John Campbell (designer of the nearby Custom House) was tasked with creating this impressive building.
Built in 1935 by local builder E.H. Shirley, this architectural entertainment gem was designed by renowned architect Wilford Melville Lawry in the Art Deco style, reflecting the international trends of the time.
Born in 1887, amidst the 19th-century gold rush, the Reefton School of Mines served as a beacon of knowledge for aspiring miners, equipping them with relevant science and skills.
Philanthropy and community spirit. The story, intertwined with the legacy of Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie, is a journey of education, resilience, and cultural preservation
St. Mary’s Catholic Church is a towering landmark and a cherished symbol of the local community. Its majestic presence has dominated the Hokitika skyline for over a century, but its future is still being determined.
An iconic West Coast museum on historic coal mining land. Features category two listed coke ovens onsite, three collections building including a heritage Nissan Hut and the impressive Millerton Incline on the doorstep to explore.
