Day 49 In the Gold Rush

The day started with a visit to an old gold mine, which we explored on our own with a flashlight (and fireflies) after an introduction by the enthusiastic owner (3rd generation).

We then continued to a small bay that used to serve as an anchor point for sailing ships - the West Coast could only be reached by sea at that time - and from there to the local market, where there was jade, jewelry, delicacies, and live music.

Afterwards, we visited the Pancake Rocks, a very impressive limestone formation that lives up to its name (it really looks like stacked pancakes!).

Lastly, we walked the Truman Track, which took us through native forest to a small stone beach. Once there, we enjoyed the roaring and yet quite cool Tasman Sea and went in search of jade. You can actually find jade on the West Coast of New Zealand if you know exactly what to look for. We also tried our hand at gold panning, but it didn't go so well.