The Lower Shotover Bridge
In 1862 Thomas Low and John MacGregor discovered gold in the Arrow and Shotover rivers which lead to a ‘goldrush’ being declared and Queenstown becoming a thriving metropolis which continued until 1900 when both the gold and the population petered out leaving a mere 190 residents.
During the goldrush, a small settlement developed at the Lower Shotover, where travellers would stop on their way to Queenstown or the diggings. This spot naturally became the perfect place to span the river allowing access between the Wakatipu Basin settlements.
The Lower Shotover Bridge was opened in 1915 after six years of fitful work, including a concrete pylon that fell over due to “some skullduggery,” according to Rotary Shotover Bridge Restoration Trust Chairperson Eric Lee. For 60 years it was the main route into Queenstown from the north and east, until in 1975 it was replaced by a modern highway bridge 500 metres downstream.
Over the subsequent years the Lower Shotover Bridge fell into disrepair until the Rotary Club of Queenstown completed restoration of the bridge in 2005. Today the bridge allows pedestrian and cyclist access with information plaques at one end detailing the history of the bridge.
The cache is a large ammo tin with lots of room for coins and swaps.
While you’re there, you could also do the cache “Bridging the Gap” (GCYJGF).
Parking is available at S 44° 59.825 E 168° 45.395.