Along the track visitors can observe relics of the many processes that took place in extracting gold - from the tunnels where rock was mined, to the roasting pits where the rock was broken down, and finally remnants of the huge stamper battery processing plant. The Talisman battery, built in the 1890s was huge in its day, with 50 stampers crushing rock around the clock. Further initiatives in the development of this walkway are the reconstruction of the tramlines that were used to transport rock to the battery and a number of interpretive boards will be mounted along the walk.
Tip: Ensure you stop at the Visitor Centre at the Waikino Cafe to look at the old black and white photos to get an idea of the size of the community that flourished in the Karangahake Gorge during the gold mining era.
Directions: Just off SH2 between Paeroa and Waihi. The walk starts in the Karangahake Gorge carpark area.
Time: About an hour round trip, though it's easy to linger longer.
NOTE: From the 11/11/24 to the 29/11/24 the Karangahake Windows walk will be closed to the public for three weeks whilst contractors carry out a structural inspection of the tunnel network, the contractors will be doing descaling of the interior walls of the tunnel, so checking for any loose or dangerous rocks that need to be removed. This exercise is done on an annual basis for the purpose of visitor safety.
Where to Find Us
Contact
Location
Karangahake Gorge
New Zealand
