Imagine, for a moment, the glint of gold fever in the eyes of two brothers. This brings us to the story of the Oxenbridge Tunnel Recreation Reserve. This place whispers tales of ambition and ultimately a failed dream.
In the early 1900s, the Oxenbridge brothers hatched a daring plan. They sought to divert the Shotover River to expose the gold-rich riverbed. Their vision? To unearth a fortune. Their method? An ambitious tunnel and a powerful pump.
The brothers invested a staggering sum. Around NZ $2.8 million went into the project. Sadly, their efforts yielded a meager NZ $48000 in gold. The dream of riches turned into a costly lesson.
Today, as you stand within the Oxenbridge Tunnel Recreation Reserve, you can still witness remnants of their grand scheme. A historic steam engine rests on the river rocks. It serves as a silent testament to their audacious endeavor.
Jet-boat driver Joseph Coutts made an exciting discovery during routine maintenance in the Shotover River. He unearthed an antique mining pump dating back to the early 1900s near the Oxenbridge Tunnel. This pump was part of the Oxenbridge brothers’ innovative project to divert the river. The pump’s discovery adds another layer to the Oxenbridge Tunnel story.
The Oxenbridge Tunnel Track itself is an easy walk offering stunning views. It is just a short distance from Queenstown. The track is only 1.5 kilometers and should only take you about 20 minutes. It leads to viewpoints overlooking the Shotover River. The bright blue water offers countless photo opportunities.
The final viewpoint is fenced off for safety. Here, you stand on the edge of a cliff. From here you can look down at the vibrant blue Shotover River below. You might even see a Shotover Jet boat racing by.
The Shotover River has its own set of rules. Swimming is generally not allowed due to the high-speed jet boats and river rafters. However, on Wednesday and Friday evenings, from 5.30 pm to 9 pm, non-motorized access is permitted. Swimmers, kayakers, and paddle boarders are welcome during these times.
The Oxenbridge Tunnel Recreation Reserve is more than just a scenic spot. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine. It’s a reminder of the dreams that once fueled the gold rush era. It showcases both its triumphs and its follies. As you leave this place, carry with you the story of the Oxenbridge brothers. Remember their ambition and the lessons learned from their ultimately unsuccessful quest for gold.