Gold and Other Historic Happenings in Hokitika
by Margery Pick
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. It is easy to wonder exactly how wanderlust affected this future city. Starting in the 1860s, Hokitika has a history familiar to quite a few areas built on gold.
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. Clearing the rugged roads, the miners pushed forward towards the goldfields, followed by those bringing supplies of survival to sell to others. The first alluvial gold deposits found near Hokitika were scattered and unproductive. Once the presence of gold was officially recognized, <a href="http://www.jadecourt.co.nz/">hokitika accommodation</a> began its reputation for service and hospitality. 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 town continued to grow when the port was finished and ships were able to bring in passengers and supplies, as well as take them out. Thirty-two were lost and hundreds damaged from 1865 through 1867 entering this dangerous waterway, though it was the official entry port for the West Coast up to the 1950s. 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. Settlers decided to stay in the area even though the mining of gold dwindled away and found other types of jobs. That foresight continues to let the current residents survive. 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. With so many different items available for local artists to use in their trade, locals and tourists find a number of gift items. Local silver and greenstone vie with paua shell and driftwood for jewelry and sculptures. Transportation to the city is readily available and once there, visitors will find it easy to travel to and from <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Enchantment-in-the-Historic-City-of-Hokitika&id=7094078">hokitika motels</a> using local buses. The sunshine provides a wonderful feeling when walking towards your daily destination.
Quality upscale rooms encourage the relaxation some guests crave after a day of touring the sites in the area. Trees and gardens, part of the beauty of this area, provide a habitat for many lovely creatures such as birds and butterflies. Accommodations make visitors feel comfortable and welcome, offering smoke-free rooms and easy access to the cultural and shopping areas. Those who enjoy making the most of their vacation might want to consider a lodge sort of setting where they have the pleasure of relaxing when it is needed and enjoying scenery and events.
Learn more about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Enchantment-in-the-Historic-City-of-Hokitika&id=7094078">hokitika motels</a>.find <a href="http://www.jadecourt.co.nz/">motels hokitika</a> and what it can do for you.
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