Gold Discovery Centre is Open

The Gold Discovery Centre in Waihi officially opened last Friday night in a stately fashion. Associate Minister of Tourism Todd McClay, Coromandel MP Scott Simpson and Hauraki District Council Mayor John Tregida were just some of the dignitaries on hand to welcome the invited guests.

The Gold Discovery Centre is now open to the public, coinciding with the start of the school holidays. Visitors are led through an interactive journey from the early mining days to the modern mining processes used today. There are plenty of hands on experiences, such as the vibrating drill that bores into a wall of rock, simulated explosions, giant lego displays and much more. The discovery experience is complemented by the existing Waihi Gold Mine Tour.

The Gold Discovery Centre adds another dimension to Waihi that is gaining a reputation as a destination in it’s own right. The locale already boasts an array of world-class dining experiences from Karangahake Gorge to Waihi Beach. The development of the Hauraki Rail Trail and its connection with the Waikino Railway Station has helped raise the profile of this picturesque provincial town. Add to this already popular attractions such as the Karangahake Gorge and Orakawa Bay walk, at Waihi Beach, and its no wonder the community is optimistic.

Eddie Morrow, General Manager of Vision Waihi Trust, is pleased with foot traffic through the door “Already we’re seeing solid numbers in the centre, the feedback has been really encouraging. As visitation increases we’ll see the spin off for the local community grow.”

The Gold Discovery Centre was set up to provide long-term opportunities for the community and wider region. The regional marketing organisation, Destination Coromandel, has recognised the significance of this development and the effect it could have in attracting heritage enthusiasts. Heritage is now one of three key selling points Destination Coromandel promotes to off-shore travel trade, the others being the Hauraki Rail Trail and Coastal Icons.

Ideally located 2 hours from Auckland and en route to the cruise ship ports of Tauranga, and popular tourist spots of Hobbiton and Rotorua, the Gold Discovery Centre will be a welcome asset to The Coromandel.

The Gold Discovery Centre is open 7 days a week from 9.00am to 5.00pm

ENDS.

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