Bannockburn Sluicings

Loop

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making it a perfect side trip if you’re staying in Cromwell or passing through the Kawarau Gorge.

From Cromwell, cross the Bannockburn Bridge over the turquoise waters of Lake Dunstan. Follow Bannockburn Road for a short distance before turning right onto Felton Road. Drive for about 1.5 to 1.7 kilometres, and you’ll see a large dirt car park on your left. The reserve access is officially associated with 143 Felton Road.

The car park is spacious, but it can get busy on sunny weekends or during the peak summer season, so arriving a little earlier in the day is always a good idea.

Wildlife Spotting

While the landscape might look barren at first glance, it is actually teeming with life. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for these local residents:

• California Quail: These are the most common birds you’ll see. Look for them scurrying across the track in small groups (known as coveys). Their distinctive "topknot" feathers and "chi-ca-go" call are unmistakable.
• Australasian Harrier (Kāhu): These large birds of prey are frequently seen soaring effortlessly above the cliffs, using the thermal updrafts to hunt for small mammals or insects in the scrub.
• New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea): If you are lucky, you might spot the rarer Kārearea. They are faster and more aggressive than the harrier; listen for their piercing "kek-kek-kek" call.
• Skylarks and Greenfinches: During spring and summer, the air is often filled with the song of the Skylark, which hovers high above the open ground.
• Chukor: These partridge-like birds love the rocky, dry terrain of Central Otago. They are quite shy, so you’ll usually hear their clucking call before you see them.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Bannockburn Sluicings is a true year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:

• Spring: The temperatures are mild, and the wild herbs and scrub begin to flower, adding a touch of green to the gold.
• Summer: It gets hot here. Central Otago is known for its scorching summer days. If you visit in summer, start your walk as early as possible (before 9:00 am) to avoid the midday heat. There is no shade and no water on the track, so carrying at least 1-2 litres of water per person is essential.
• Autumn: This is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit. The surrounding vineyards turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange, and the air is crisp and clear. Plus, the fruit in the Stewart Town orchard is usually ready for harvest.
• Winter: The landscape takes on a stark, dramatic beauty. You might see hoar frost clinging to the ruins, or even a dusting of snow. Just be aware that the track can be slippery in places if it has iced over.

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended due to the uneven and sometimes loose rocky terrain.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the Central Otago sun is fierce. Wear a hat and apply plenty of sunscreen.
• Safety: Always supervise children closely. The old mining shafts are fenced or covered where possible, but the terrain is naturally rugged.
• Wind: The area can be hit by strong nor'west winds. Check the forecast before you head out, as the exposed ridges can be quite blustery.

Local & Regional Context

The Bannockburn Sluicings isn’t just a walk; it’s a Tohu Whenua heritage site. This status is reserved for New Zealand’s most significant heritage landmarks—places that tell the story of our people and the land.

Long before the gold rush, the wider Otago region was a place of transit and resource gathering for Māori, who travelled through the valleys to reach the pounamu (greenstone) sources of the West Coast. However, the landscape you see today is almost entirely a colonial creation.

The "Sluicings" represent a time of immense change. Between 1862 and the early 20th century, thousands of miners from all over the world flocked here. The engineering required to build the water races and dams you see along the track was staggering, often completed with nothing more than picks, shovels, and sheer determination. It was a "Wild West" environment where fortunes were made and lost in the dirt. Today, the Department of Conservation (DOC) manages the area, ensuring that these fragile mudbrick ruins and the unique "badlands" geology are preserved for future generations.

After the Walk

One of the best things about hiking in Bannockburn is that you are right in the heart of some of the world’s best wine country. You won’t have to go far to refuel.

• Bannockburn Hotel: Located just 1.5km away, this historic pub dates back to 1862. It has been beautifully restored into a restaurant that manages to feel both elegant and cosy. It’s the perfect spot for a post-hike glass of local Pinot Noir by the fireplace.
• Black Rabbit Kitchen & Bar: Only 2km from the trailhead, this is a great, relaxed option for families and those with dogs. Their homemade pies are legendary, and the "genuine Kiwi tucker" is exactly what you need after working up an appetite on the trail.
• Mt Difficulty Cellar Door: If you want a view that rivals Menzies Terrace, head here. Just 1km away, it offers incredible platters and seasonal dishes. It’s a bit more of a treat, but sitting on the deck overlooking the sluicings you just walked through is an unforgettable experience.
• Carrick Winery: Located about 3.5km away near the Bannockburn Inlet, Carrick is a lovely spot for a more casual bite from their pizza trailer or a full meal in the restaurant. It’s right on the edge of the Lake Dunstan Trail, making it a hub of activity for hikers and bikers alike.

Bannockburn Hotel – Wine Country Restaurant and Bar

1.5km away

A historic pub (circa 1862) transformed into an elegant restaurant offering sharing plates with global flavours and an extensive list of local and international wines. Features a rustic lounge with a fireplace and stunning views.