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  WAIHI, NEW ZEALAND'S HEART OF GOLD » CHRISTMAS PARADE 2017: See PHOTOS. » TROLLEY DERBY 2017: See PHOTOS.   Waihi is located at the Southern end of New Zealand's Coromandel Peninsula. Our native bush, the breathtaking Karangahake Gorge and the nearby white-sand stretches of Waihi Beach are just a few of the natural resources that we enjoy. Numerous groups and organisations cater for sport, recreation and the arts.  Our region boasts a diverse group of businesses involved in a wide range o... Read more »

• Late Night Christmas Shopping

  From 5pm until late, downtown Waihi. Music - Sarah Spicer Free face painting Win a hamper full of goodies I'll be there with lollies. Read more »

• About Us

  The extremely diverse topography of the Waihi region provides a rich playground for all to enjoy. Whether it's the stunning beauty of the Karangahake Gorge, getting out into bush clad hills or just relaxing on the beautiful white-sand of Waihi Beach, the Waihi region is a great place to appreciate what New Zealand's outdoors has to offer. Waihi has strong community development initiatives in place, including those supporting culture and heritage, the arts and fitness and well-being. Our gold-min... Read more »

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• History and Heritage

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• Waihi and Gold

  Our roots go deep. Few parts of New Zealand can offer so much history - glimpses of the hard-fought, gold-rich, pioneer lifestyle permeate the town. Step back in time, and wander through years past in today's friendly atmosphere. GOLD FEVER It was the lure of gold that brought people to Waihi in numbers. In 1878 gold-bearing quartz was found on Pukewa spur, a Maori burial ground which soon became the famous Martha Mine. Tents and crude huts were gradually replaced with today... Read more »

• The end of the original Martha Mine

  The end of the original Martha Mining did not end in 1952 because the Martha had run out of gold; the current operation is evidence of this. Rather, a series of factors led to a decline in production: The international gold price was fixed at $US35 an ounce, limiting the revenue the mine could make. The machinery needed to be updated, although the technology was available to do this, the money was not. There had been two World Wars and the Depression of the 1930s, depleting manpower and creating... Read more »

• Karangahake

  Don't miss the Karangahake Gorge Experience what it must have been like to work underground in Mt Karangahake 100 years ago. Explore old mining tunnels, ore roasting kilns and tramways on the Windows Walk. Follow the Karangahake walkway along the path of the old railway through a kilometre long brick-lined tunnel. From the Karangahake Reserve, let the swing-bridges lead you across the rivers to breathtaking scenery. Scramble over relics from our fascinating goldmining past. It's all here in the... Read more »

• Waihi's Walkways

  Pack a snack or a picnic and head out. You're just minutes from some of the most splendid outdoor walks and adventure you'll find anywhere. The operating gold mine, historic gold mining sites, restful gardens, breathtaking coastal paths and pristine bush tracks combine to offer walkers a truly unique experience. Whether you're a skilled overnight tramper, or you’re just after a gentle stroll, the walks in, and around Waihi have something for everyone. Martha Mine Pit Rim Walkway If you're look... Read more »

• Martha Gold Mine

  New Zealand's Heart of Gold As you explore the town you'll find evidence of our golden past at every turn. At the top of town are the towering figures of the relocated Cornish Pumphouse and replica Poppet head. Then, as you wander down Seddon Street (named after our famous Prime Minister)you'll find bronze statues, restored historic buildings and interesting displays depicting our heritage. Only metres from the centre of town, you can walk right to the edge of Waihi's huge open pit gold mine. Th... Read more »