Exploring Bendigo in the Dunstan Mountains
Bendigo is located on the eastern side of Lake Dunstan, just a short detour from the main highway. This area, once a hub for gold mining, is now known for its vineyards that stretch across the ancient moraine terraces at the foot of the Dunstan Mountains. The transformation from gold to grapes makes Bendigo a fascinating destination for those interested in both history and viticulture.
Discovering Bendigo's Ghost Towns
While Bendigo itself is marked by little more than a sign and the remains of a stone cottage, a short drive up the signposted dirt road along the Dunstan Mountains leads you to the ghost towns of Logantown and Welshtown. This drive takes about 10 minutes.
Once there, you can explore the remnants of these historic settlements, including stone cottage remains, mineshafts, debris piles, and other detritus. The towns are set mostly amongst grass, with the surrounding higher terrain giving way to tussock and kānuka shrubs.
Walking Trails and Scenic Views
From Logantown and Welshtown, you have the option to take a short loop track for about an hour, while a longer trail allows you to wander further among the gold mining remains. The trails also provide stunning views across the valley towards the Pisa Range.
At 600 metres, the area is well below the Winter snow line, ensuring a comfortable walk, unless an unusual storm occurs.
Getting to Bendigo
Bendigo is accessed on Bendigo Loop Road from State Highway 8, south of Tarras and just before you get to the north end of Lake Dunstan. From Wānaka, it is a 36-minute, 44 km drive via State Highway 6, State Highway 8A to Tarras, then south on SH8. From Cromwell, it takes 18 minutes and is 21 km, heading north on SH8.
Historical gold locations can also be found on the highway from Tarras to Lindis Pass, Nine Mile Reserve, the old town of Cromwell, around Bannockburn and near the entrance to Kawarau Gorge at Goldfields Mining Centre.
