Flat and terraced areas were mined for gold using a ground slicing method where the larger rocks were put into piles in a herringbone pattern to direct water and washed material through a sluice channel to separate out the gold.

A Miner's Right was required under the Gold Field's Act 1858, to legally mine for gold. Miner's Rights cost £1 and were first issued in 1861.

In many areas of Central Otago where water was scarce, gold miners used rocker boxes. Miners poured water slowly over sand and silt at the top of the sloping box, gently rocking the box like a cradle to wash and trap alluvial gold.

This fruit-driven Pinot Gris from Marlborough's Awatere Valley displays bright aromas of orange blossom and juicy pear. On the palate flavours of fresh quince and crisp golden apple blend seamlessly with hints of sweet spice. With integrated fine phenolics and smooth acidity this is a fresh and richly textured wine with a long and lingering finish.

Sourced entirely from vineyards located in Southern Marlborough's spectacular Awatere Valley, this vibrant wine displays aromas of citrus zest and vibrant tropical fruit with notes of fresh spring herbs complemented with hints of orange blossom and lemongrass. The palate is layered with flavours of juicy ripe lemon and lime, sweet fresh pineapple and crunchy green apple. This seamless wine has outstanding fruit concentration and a zesty underlying minerality that leads to a pure, lively and focused dry finish.

This Nelson Chardonnay displays vibrant aromas of bright citrus zest, ripe stonefruit and subtle hints of warm, spicy French oak. On the palate flavours of white peach, ginger, juicy grapefruit and notes of toasted nut take this medium bodied and elegantly textured wine to a lusciously long and persistent finish.

Pink grapefruit, lime zest, mineral wet stone aromatics gives way to a textural and zingy palate, showing bright citrus flavours and a great mouthfeel, finishing with an off dry lingering persistent finish.

This wine is fruit-driven in style, exhibiting ripe peach with underlying citrus blossom and fig characters. On the palate, these flavours are enhanced by a creamy texture and a delicate suggestion of oak. A medium bodied Chardonnay that is styled for enjoyment upon release with or without food.

This East Coast Pinot Gris shines with crisp, cool climate flavours of fresh and inviting ripe nashi pear, crunchy red apple and floral blossoms, leading to a rich and delicately balanced mouthfeel with a delicious off-dry finish.

This delicious Rosé has lovely hues of pink with copper undertones and displays an explosion of fresh strawberries and pink grapefruit supported by subtle baking spice. The palate has generous fruit but finishes crisp and refreshing.

This is the Sauvignon Blanc that put Villa Maria on the world map. A blend of both Marlborough's Wairau and Awatere Valleys, their winemakers take great care to ensure this wine showcases exceptional balance and consistency every vintage. The room-filling aromatics and strikingly crisp character of our Private Bin Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc are why it is so popular and such a memorable experience.

Established in 2001, Waipara Hills is an award winning wine range from the South Island of New Zealand.