The Goldrush Tour was launched in 2025 with one clear goal: to create Queenstown's most detailed historical experience. The tour was developed following around eight months of research into the history of the gold gush and the communities that once called Skippers Canyon home. Drawing on historical records, photographs and first-hand accounts, a comprehensive script was written to tell the remarkable stories of the pioneers, miners and families who shaped one of New Zealand's most significant gold mining regions. The history has been professionally produced as a documentary-style audio experience, recorded by three voice actors (per language) with music and sound effects. Using GPS technology, each chapter begins automatically at the location where the events took place, allowing guests to experience the stories as they travel through the landscape in which they unfolded.
The Goldrush Tour offers small-group experiences for up to 11 guests, travelling along the historic Skippers Road into the heart of Skippers Canyon. The experience combines spectacular scenery with authentic local history, historic photographs and numerous opportunities to stop, explore and ask questions throughout the journey. To make the tour accessible to international visitors, the documentary-style stories are available in eight languages, allowing guests from around the world to experience the same carefully researched history in their own language. As a independent, locally owned and owner-operated business, The Goldrush Tour is committed to sharing the rich history of Queenstown and Skippers Canyon through an experience that is immersive, educational and historically authentic.
