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Welcome to The Goldrush Tour
Your journey back in time to Queenstown’s golden era!
Just as the early miners did in the 1860s, you’ll set off from Queenstown’s town centre, travel through the stunning Queenstown Gorge (Blow Ho Gully), and deep into the heart of Skippers Canyon. Along the way, our GPS activated stories, professionally narrated by voice actors, will bring the region’s goldrush history to life — giving you all the insights and stories you could want, while your expert Driver/Guide focuses on navigating the dramatic alpine road ahead.
Travelling with children, or just in the mood to enjoy the views in peace? No problem — we offer multiple onboard audio channels, including three radio stations and two dedicated children’s storytelling tracks, so there’s something for everyone.
The full experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours (depending on weather and road conditions), with plenty of photo stops along the way. We finish the tour at Gantley’s Tavern, a historic goldmining pub dating back over 160 years, where you can enjoy either a hot drink or a beer/wine — all included in the price, before dropping you off back at your original pickup point.
Who Are We?
Hi, I’m Cal — owner, operator, driver, and yes, even the cleaner here at The Goldrush Tour.
I launched the tour in 2025 out of a deep passion for Skippers Canyon and the rich history of Queenstown. I’ve spent nearly a decade exploring this incredible region, 3 of which as a driver/guide, and I never tire of the tales of glory and hardship that shaped the goldrush era.
To help bring those stories to life, I’ve researched and written a detailed commentary that runs throughout the tour — and I’m currently working on translating it into four additional languages ahead of Spring 2025, with many more to follow.
My goal is to make this journey accessible and meaningful, no matter where you’re from — so you can experience the canyon’s history in your own language.
Why Choose Us?
- Small owner-operated business
- In-depth GPS activated stories, available in:
- English
- Chinese
- Small bus tour (max 11 people)
- Popular filming locations:
- The Lord of the Rings
- Mission: Impossible
- A Remarkable Place to Die
- Photo stops along one of New Zealand's most scenic roads
- Barista coffee or beer/wine included in price
What Our Customers Say
JS
Javier Shiejova
★★★★★
“A great and informative tour looking into the past of Queenstown with remarkable (pun intended) sceneries. Movie-worthy! Our guide, Cal, is very friendly and knowledgeable. 10/10 would recommend!”
MJ
Mark Joyce
★★★★★
“新西蘭大峽谷之九曲十三彎。 闖地獄閘，出天堂門，尋找消失的峽谷村莊，中文錄音敘述，瞭解當地歷史背景，欣賞如畫風景。導遊Cal 是The Goldrush Tour的老闆，盡心盡力，還帶了他可愛的寶貝小狗Aster 作為領隊。終點站是個百年咖啡店，食物美味，又是一個驚喜”
TB
Tina Bolton
★★★★★
“Awesome adventure well worthwhile, great host with a great sense of humour. A must do adventure if you are in Queenstown. Worth the money spent an excellent experience.”
5.0
★★★★★
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