Among an abundance of vintage, cultural and historic attractions in the Gold Rush town yesterday was family favourite, gold panning.
Tuapeka Vintage Club president Rodger Anderson said the gold panning stand adjoining the club had enjoyed a steady flow of young prospectors during the day, many of whom hoped for the big strike.
"The local gold is alluvial, so you’ll usually see a few flakes of colour in the bottom of your pan once you’re done.
"The children love it."
Visitors were spoilt for choice at this year’s event, and could take in working vintage machinery, costumed locals, the Southland Otago Axemen’s Centre, market stalls, tours of historic 19th century buildings and restored wetlands, and local hospitality.
Mr Anderson said the day was the club and town’s annual showcase.
"The whole town comes together to welcome visitors, and there’s always something different from see, alongside the regular favourites.
"Some of the town’s attractions, like the Black Horse daffodils, the Chinese Camp and Gabriels Gully are a bit further afield, so we’re running a bus today to allow people to take it all in."
He and other townspeople were looking forward to significant tourist developments getting under way.
"It will be great to see the Gabriels Gully [historic interpretation] project with the Lawrence Museum, and the Chinese Camp announced a redevelopment last week, which can only bring more visitors into town.
"It all just gives the public more to see."
