Skip the Line: Shantytown Heritage Park Experience Ticket
Active
1h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step back in time and discover a replica gold-rush village set in the late 1800’s. . Discover legendary stories through a fascinating mix of experience and display. Ride the Steam Train through native rain forest, experience the sights and sounds of a working sawmill, watch the sluice gun blast gold bearing rock and soil from the earth, then follow the races to the gold claim and pan for your own gold, a strike is guaranteed! There are over 30 shops and buildings to explore!
Available options
Skip the Line: Shantytown Heritage Park Experience Ticket
What's included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Shantytown is conveniently located between the West Coast's major towns Greymouth and Hokitika - just 3kms off the main highway (SH6)
Open Daily 10am - 3pm (expect Christmas Day) We recommend you allow at least 90 minutes for the full Shantytown experience.
On arrival you will be provided with a self-guide visitors map - we offer these in 10 different languages so please ask at the ticketing office if we can provide one in your preferred language.
To make the most of your visit please note the heritage train departure times and plan your time at Shantytown around this. Trains leave at 11:00am, 12:30pm & 2:00pm.
Our highly experience gold claim staff can show you the techniques and tips on how to pan for gold. The gold panning experience is $7.00 per pan and can be purchased at the Shantytown Gold Claim.
Onsite facilities include:
• Cafe
• Public Toilets
• Licensed Bar
• Post Office Services
• Playground
• Full conference, Weddings and Event Facilities
What's not included
Gold Panning
Old Time Photos
All Food and Beverages
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
ZH-TW
EN
Written guide
DE
ZH-TW
KO
JA
EN
IT
FR
DA
ES
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
5 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.1
50 reviews
5★
26
4★
13
3★
5
2★
3
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Open Daily 9am - 4pm (except Christmas Day) We recommend you allow at least 90 minutes for the full Shantytown experience.
About Greymouth
Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Known as the gateway to the wild and scenic West Coast, it offers a mix of rugged landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures. The town is famous for its pounamu (greenstone) and is a hub for the famous TranzAlpine train journey.
Top Attractions
TranzAlpine Train Journey
One of the world's most scenic train journeys, the TranzAlpine runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and lush rainforests.
Scenic/Adventure
4.5 hours one way
Moderate to Expensive (NZD 90-150 depending on the class)
Pounamu (Greenstone) Museum
This museum showcases the cultural significance and history of pounamu, a sacred greenstone to the Māori, and its role in New Zealand's history.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget (NZD 10-15)
Kawatiri River Trail
A scenic walking and cycling trail that follows the Kawatiri River, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Nature/Adventure
2-4 hours (depending on the section)
Free
Shantytown Heritage Park
An open-air museum that recreates a 19th-century gold mining town, offering a glimpse into the region's gold mining history.
Historical/Entertainment
2-4 hours
Moderate (NZD 20-25)
Point Elizabeth
A scenic beach and picnic area located on the outskirts of Greymouth, offering beautiful ocean views and a peaceful setting.
Nature/Relaxation
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hangi
A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender and flavorful meat and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat and vegetables, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Whitebait Fritters
A local delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.
Appetizer/Snack
Contains fish and egg, may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Lamb Rump
A popular dish featuring tender and flavorful lamb rump, often served with seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction.
Dinner
Contains meat, may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Helicopter tours
Guided glacier walks
Beach walks
Picnicking
Visiting hot pools
Exploring historic sites
Shopping for pounamu
Best Time to Visit
Summer (December to February)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural beauty.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Greymouth is generally safe, but travelers should be aware of common safety precautions and weather-related hazards.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Hokitika Airport • 30 km north of Greymouth
By train
Greymouth Railway Station
By bus
Greymouth Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but not very frequent. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Blakely
Cobden
Day trips
Hokitika
30 km north of Greymouth • Half day to full day
Hokitika is a charming town known for its pounamu (greenstone) carvings, historic sites, and beautiful beaches.
Arthur's Pass National Park
80 km east of Greymouth • Full day
Arthur's Pass National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Franz Josef Glacier
150 km north of Greymouth • Full day to overnight
Franz Josef Glacier is a stunning glacier offering guided walks, helicopter tours, and breathtaking views.
Festivals
West Coast Wildlife Week • Annually in October
Hokitika Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March
Pro tips
- Book the TranzAlpine train journey in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially if engaging in outdoor activities.
- Consider purchasing a piece of pounamu (greenstone) as a unique and meaningful souvenir.
- Explore the local food scene and try traditional dishes like hangi and whitebait fritters.
- Take the time to visit nearby attractions like Hokitika, Arthur's Pass National Park, and Franz Josef Glacier for a more comprehensive West Coast experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
