Scenic Tour

Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour will take you into a land of outstanding natural beauty, rich in gold mining history, allowing you exclusive access to Winky’s Museum and the Sainsbury Gold Claim you will even be able to pan for your own gold.

The Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour begins with a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon via the infamous Skippers Road which was carved out of the vertical rock face by miners over 120yrs ago. With on board commentary from our knowledgeable drivers you will learn the history of the area including the hardships endured by the miners who battled the harsh New Zealand conditions to extract gold from the richest gold bearing river in the world, as well as experiencing Lord of the Rings locations first hand.

Once in the canyon you will be given an exclusive tour of Winky’s Museum set in the scenic surrounds of the Sainsbury Gold Claim, giving
you an insight into the many techniques and types of equipment used by the miners as the area plays host to a vast array of relics that were used during the gold rush itself. Then after some complimentary refreshments it’s your chance to strike it rich by panning for your own gold.

The Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour offers a great balance of stunning scenery and local history just a short drive from central Queenstown. Be sure not to forget your camera as this trip is a photographer’s dream.