A guided tour takes you through an operational 19th century Stamper Battery and into one of the richest goldmines of the time.
A self-guided tour allows you to explore the photographic museum, view a video presentation, discover mining relics and see steam-powered machines.
Try your luck at gold panning!
Allow 40 minutes for your visit. No need to book ahead during summer, unless there are over ten in your group - see "group bookings"
The tour underground can be muddy, especially during the wetter months. Bring closed-toe footwear and a water proof jacket just in case, your own torch if you have one, and plenty of luck to strike it rich!
If you or anyone else in your group, has a dislike for being in confined dark spaces, then there are alternative activities for you to enjoy instead of the underground section of the tour - including gold panning!
The underground mine is inspected regularly and meets government standards. It is mandatory that visitors to the site carry out instructions from Goldmine Experience guides or any Hauraki Prospectors Association member while on the site. Hauraki Prospectors Association Inc. (HPA) hold the site under a Crown Mining Licence and is the owner of all historical buildings and equipment. HPA reserve the right to restrict access to any part of the site at any time for health and safety reasons.
Toilet facilities available, limited refreshments, bus & car parking, souvenirs and picnic area beside the pond.
Goldmine Experience is located on the corner of Moanataiari Road and State Highway 25, at the northern end of Thames.The gateway to the scenic Coromandel Peninsula, Thames is a short journey from most major cities in the area. Expect less than a 1.5 hour drive from Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, or Coromandel.
Goldmine experience is closed Christmas Day and Easter Friday
| From | To | |
| Monday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Thursday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Friday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Saturday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |
| Sunday | 10:00 am | 04:00 pm |