Central Otago was the main center of New Zealand’s economy during the gold rush. The towns thrived as people searched for gold but sadly declined when the gold ran out. Welshtown is a good example of this.
However, you can still explore the remnants of this exciting time in the Bendigo Historic Reserve. You’ll find ruins of stone cottages and other mining structures in the quaint settlements of Welshtown and Logantown.
Where is Welshtown Located?
About 20 minutes from Cromwell, keep an eye out for the sign pointing to Bendigo Historic Reserve. Drive on a gravel road and up the hill to explore the deserted settlements of Welshtown and Logantown. Just a heads up, the Bendigo Historic Reserve has open mine shafts and other potential hazards, so it’s safest to stick to the marked tracks.
Interesting Facts About Bendigo
1. The city was established as a sheep run in 1840 and was initially named Sandhurst. However, in 1891, the name was officially changed to honor a local prizefighter who likened his own skills to those of the English boxer known as Bendigo.
2. Bendigo, the seventh largest gold producer worldwide, boasts a rich history of gold mining. The Central Deborah Gold Mine, a once-thriving operational gold mine during the gold rush, offers a unique underground tour. This captivating experience allows visitors to delve into the fascinating geology of Bendigo, a journey that will leave a lasting impression.
3. In the late 1880s, approximately three decades after discovering gold in a nearby creek, Bendigo blossomed into the most affluent city globally. Presently, the city’s opulent history remains palpable, with its majestic buildings and monuments meticulously preserved at its heart.
Is it worth visiting Welshtown?
On a one-hour walking tour, you can explore the ghost town area and see visible ruins, remains, and remnants. The beautiful scenery and rich history make this a truly captivating experience. It’s astonishing to think that the Bendigo boom town, along with its neighboring Logantown/Welshtown, was once the pride of New Zealand, given the windswept remains that stand today.
So what are you waiting for?
“The most beautiful thing in the world is, of course, the world itself.”
― Wallace Stevens