Historic Skippers suspension bridge
opened in 1901
Summary
Skippers is part of Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve in the hills and valleys that fed much of Wakatipu's 1860s gold fever.
The reserve was established in 1985 from Mt Aurum Station and annually attracts tens of thousands of visitors who explore its 9100-hectares, despite the challenges of getting there.
Packed with history, Mount Aurum Reserve offers dramatic views and opportunities to walk, tramp, camp, paint, kayak, mountain bike, picnic and raft … you can even bring your dog.
The reserve begins after crossing the historic Skippers suspension bridge. Opened in 1901 it's the most spectacular of its kind in New Zealand.
On the terrace above is a virtual ghost town, the remnants of Skippers Township, once the largest gold settlement on the Shotover River.
The Skippers brochure includes:
- how to get there
- introduction to the historic reserve
- overview of the natural and human history
- map of the area
The brochure also provides brief descriptions of the long tracks and short walks in the area:
Long tracks:
- Crystal Battery Track
- Dynamo Hut Track
- Bullendale Track
Short walks:
- Skippers Point Cemetery
- Johnston's Otago Hotel
- Mt Aurum Homestead
- Pleasant Terrace Historic Walk
- Skippers Point School