Enchantment in the Historic City of Hokitika
Like many other areas around the world, the city and area around Hokitika was born from the fever of those seeking their fortune in gold.
The unsettled West Coast of New Zealand called out to those with a sense of adventure and willingness to achieve it.
What are some of the things that led to today's enchanting community? Take a step back in time to the 1860s and the development of the history of Hokitika.
The West Coast enticed thousands of men and a few women to investigate the likelihood of finding gold in that area.
That involved the arduous task of clearing roads and paths by cutting through the bush.
Business owners also sought a fortune as they followed the cleared area with supplies that miners would need for survival or comfort.
The first alluvial gold deposits found near Hokitika were scattered and unproductive.
Hokitika accommodation began its long history with the gold rush and the discovery of more gold required more rooms.
Filled to capacity by the end of 1865, many of the seventy-two hotels had a bar and place to eat.
The population continued to grow and by 1867, Hokitika was one of the largest centers of residents in the country.
The construction of a port led to even further activity in the area, as sea travel made it easier to send and receive goods and supplies.
Acknowledged as the West Coast's official port of entry until the 1950s, it was also one of the most dangerous, with thirty-two ships lost between 1865 and 1867.
At times, ships were required to wait offshore until some of the forty or more ships in the harbor departed.
The town had the short-lived title of capital of Westland Province between 1873 and the end of provinces in 1876.
A decrease in the mining of gold led settlers into other areas of employment, such as farming and lumber mills.
Although population has declined, the area continues to thrive.
Tourism is one of the area's largest businesses today.
Technology has led to an easier way of obtaining gold, providing the opportunity for tourists to see modern methods of mining in the gold camps.
The number of different mediums available to create jewelry inspire artisans to produce, display and sell their work, including bracelets, rings, and necklaces.
Local silver and greenstone vie with paua shell and driftwood for jewelry and sculptures.
Arrive by car or plane and take a bus ride around the area, thanks to scheduled stops that drop off near Hokitika motels and hotels.
Shops, the beach and other areas of interest are within walking distance.
The variety of housing allows guests to choose the stay that fits them best, including a camping or backpacking experience.
Places near the beach offer beautiful views of the Tasman Sea and allow glimpses of the native birds flitting about the gardens.
You will find no-smoking bed and breakfasts, offering comfortable and homey rooms and meals minutes away from the beach.
A lodge gives the opportunity to meet and talk with locals and other visitors, comparing notes about what to see and do, such as strolling along the beach looking for shells and admiring the sunset.
The unsettled West Coast of New Zealand called out to those with a sense of adventure and willingness to achieve it.
What are some of the things that led to today's enchanting community? Take a step back in time to the 1860s and the development of the history of Hokitika.
The West Coast enticed thousands of men and a few women to investigate the likelihood of finding gold in that area.
That involved the arduous task of clearing roads and paths by cutting through the bush.
Business owners also sought a fortune as they followed the cleared area with supplies that miners would need for survival or comfort.
The first alluvial gold deposits found near Hokitika were scattered and unproductive.
Hokitika accommodation began its long history with the gold rush and the discovery of more gold required more rooms.
Filled to capacity by the end of 1865, many of the seventy-two hotels had a bar and place to eat.
The population continued to grow and by 1867, Hokitika was one of the largest centers of residents in the country.
The construction of a port led to even further activity in the area, as sea travel made it easier to send and receive goods and supplies.
Acknowledged as the West Coast's official port of entry until the 1950s, it was also one of the most dangerous, with thirty-two ships lost between 1865 and 1867.
At times, ships were required to wait offshore until some of the forty or more ships in the harbor departed.
The town had the short-lived title of capital of Westland Province between 1873 and the end of provinces in 1876.
A decrease in the mining of gold led settlers into other areas of employment, such as farming and lumber mills.
Although population has declined, the area continues to thrive.
Tourism is one of the area's largest businesses today.
Technology has led to an easier way of obtaining gold, providing the opportunity for tourists to see modern methods of mining in the gold camps.
The number of different mediums available to create jewelry inspire artisans to produce, display and sell their work, including bracelets, rings, and necklaces.
Local silver and greenstone vie with paua shell and driftwood for jewelry and sculptures.
Arrive by car or plane and take a bus ride around the area, thanks to scheduled stops that drop off near Hokitika motels and hotels.
Shops, the beach and other areas of interest are within walking distance.
The variety of housing allows guests to choose the stay that fits them best, including a camping or backpacking experience.
Places near the beach offer beautiful views of the Tasman Sea and allow glimpses of the native birds flitting about the gardens.
You will find no-smoking bed and breakfasts, offering comfortable and homey rooms and meals minutes away from the beach.
A lodge gives the opportunity to meet and talk with locals and other visitors, comparing notes about what to see and do, such as strolling along the beach looking for shells and admiring the sunset.
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