Location: Ross (25km South of Hokitika) | Accessibility: Moderate | Duration: 1 hour | Cost: Free
Just a short drive south of Hokitika lies Ross, a town famous for producing the “Honourable Roddy”—the largest gold nugget ever found in New Zealand. The Ross Historic Goldfields walking track is a fantastic free resource that winds through the hills overlooking the town and the ocean, making it a highly recommended top things to do activity for hikers.
The trail takes you past a variety of mining relics, including old water races, tunnels, and machinery. The visitor can choose between several loops ranging from short 20-minute strolls to hour-long hikes. One of the highlights is the viewpoint overlooking the open-cast mine, which is now a deep, water-filled pit of striking blue.
Ross has a very distinct “frontier” feel, and the trail is well-signed with historical information about the hardships of the early miners. After your walk, you can explore the restored miner’s cottage in the township. It’s a perfect addition to any West Coast itinerary, offering both a physical workout and a deep dive into the region’s golden heritage.
