Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a small town in New Zealand's Queenstown-Lakes District, founded during the gold rush era. It features preserved buildings from the 1800s, narrow streets, galleries, shops, and cafes arranged along the Arrow River, with trails connecting to surrounding forests and hills.
The town was founded in 1862 during the gold rush when prospectors searched for gold in surrounding rivers and hills. Chinese workers played a significant role during this period and left buildings and cultural sites that remain visible today.
The town's name refers to arrows that early settlers used to mark paths to the river. Today, local artists and craftspeople shape community life through galleries, studios, and shops where visitors can see handmade work and learn about creative traditions.
Arrowtown sits about 20 minutes from Queenstown and is easy to reach by bus or car. Walking trails suit visitors of all abilities, and cafes and restaurants line the streets, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace and rest whenever you like.
During the gold rush, the town served as a hub for Chinese workers who labored under harsh conditions and built their own neighborhoods. This story remains visible in certain buildings and sites, offering insight into the region's overlooked migrant history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
