Nine things to do in Arrowtown in spring

1. Take in the culture

Explore and learn during your time in Arrowtown and uncover the rich mining history of the town and the vibrant community here today. Wander through the Lakes District Museum and find out about the early social and cultural history of the Whakatipu region. The Museum has artefacts and interactive displays and you can also ask the Museum staff for a tour of the old Gaol, or a gold pan to try panning at the Arrow River (Haehaenui).

Connect with a local guide and they can talk to you about the history of the town and the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. They can also show you some local hotspots and suggest activities for the rest of your stay.

Explore the growing art scene of Arrowtown and venture to one of the local sculptor or artist studios. There are many talented locals who love to talk about their craft and show their latest creations (many are available for purchase in-studio and most artists also do commissions). Some places to check out include Birdwoods Gallery, Astor Bristed, Bonham Art & Design, as well as The Jade & Opal Factory which is the region’s only working jade (pounamu) carving factory.

2. Dine al fresco and taste local

Savour the spring sunshine over a delicious meal or drink at one of our many incredible eateries. Options that are perfect for al fresco dining include Postmasters Kitchen + Bar, The Dishery, and Bendix Stables, or one of the eateries at Millbrook Resort.

Or BYO picnic and head to the hills or river. Get sushi from Cave, a sandwich from Arrowtown Bakery, a burger from Fergbutcher, a curry or salad from Arrow Thai, a platter from Rosie’s Plate or takeaway from one of the other many cafés in town. Just remember if you do have a picnic, please take your rubbish away with you.

3. Go shopping

Arrowtown is renowned for its boutique locally-owned shops in addition to its artist studios. There are clothing stores like GOALS which offers luxury leisure and activewear as well as children’s clothing, Smith & Western which offers locally-designed clothing as well as décor, Ocula which stocks designer sunglasses and glasses, and Bunnies which stocks new & pre-loved designer clothing, shoes, bags and accessories.

There are also stores with New Zealand knitwear including Golden Fleece, Buckinghams, and Te Huia, while Wilson & Dorset stocks a wide range of luxurious sheepskin rugs, beanbags and footstools. Ogle and Francis Patterson offer homewares as well as delightful gift ideas for all ages.  

There are gift stores including The Gold Nugget which has been around since 1952 and stocks souvenirs, art and clothing, Lucy King Candle Company which crafts locally made candles and Black Teal Bay which is a local organic certified herb farm and shop. Rainbow Doorways meanwhile, is a treasure trove of crystals, gemstones and gifts and a great spot to visit with kids. If you are after books, peruse the shelves at Lakes District Museum, Arrowtown Post Office or Dorothy Browns.

5. Head for the hills

Arrowtown has an extensive network of trails radiating from its centre – from easy riverside walks to serious alpine outings. October and November are ideal months for walking and hiking as the weather is temperate, trails are drying out after winter snow and the longer daylight hours make epic day trips possible. Depending on your ability, hikes along Sawpit Gully, New Chums Gully, or Miner’s Trail offer impressive views and a chance to get the blood pumping.

Chat to the team at the Information Centre for some tips, maps, and then make a plan. Take a picnic with you or some binoculars and immerse yourself in nature. If you are lucky, you might spot native birdlife like the New Zealand falcon (kārearea), fantails (piwakawaka), or bellbirds (korimako).

6. Get involved with the community

Arrowtown locals are passionate about our town and in spring you will find them enjoying the outdoors and also attending community events like the Arrowtown Market and community planting days or helping other locals with Baskets of Blessing. Take a look at the Get Involved page if you are looking to give back during your stay.

7. Ride the trails

Hire a bike or e-bike from Arrowtown Bike Hire or Better By Bike and explore the wide variety of trails surrounding Arrowtown. Take a leisurely loop around the river trails or venture further towards the vines of Gibbston, or cycle through Millbrook Resort and around the Lake Hayes Loop or along the new Wharehuanui Trail to Arthurs Point. Or if you are after something more exciting and challenging, head to the hills and ride the Bush Creek XC Loop, the Macetown Trail, or the epic 50km Coronet Loop.

8. Enjoy the river

As the spring weather warms up, many locals and visitors enjoy the Arrow River (Haehaenui). Rent a gold pan and try your luck panning for gold, go for a splash, or simply bask in the spring sunshine at the river’s edge after collecting an ice-cream from the award-winning Patagonia Chocolates. From 1 November, it is also possible to fish for trout in the middle reaches of the river (as long as you have a permit).

9. Go indoors

If you get caught out with a spring shower, there are a range of indoor activities to keep you entertained. In addition to the Lakes District Museum, shopping, art galleries and dining, there is the delightful Dorothy Browns which offers a variety of independent and mainstream movies as well as a book shop and gin bar. Or if you’re feeling indulgent, treat yourself with a spa treatment at Millbrook Spa or Gibbston Valley Spa or a new hairstyle at D’Or Hairstylists or Arrowtown Hair Co, or head to Remarkable Sweet Shop and have a Willy Wonka moment lost in the world of lollies, sweets and fudge.