STRIKE GOLD, SHAPE JADE,
TAKE HOME.

Gold Panning Experience in Hokitika, West Coast New Zealand

Where Gold & Pounamu Meet

Two treasures helped shape the story of the West Coast.

Today, you can experience both under one roof at Polish & Pan. Located indoors in the heart of Hokitika's town centre, our hands-on experiences let you pan for genuine West Coast gold or shape and polish your own authentic Pounamu pendant.

Discover the stories behind these iconic treasures, create something uniquely your own, and leave with a genuine piece of the West Coast to treasure forever.

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Our Experiences

Four people are gathered around a water sluice box, washing and sorting small gold particles, in an indoor educational or demonstration setting.

Gold Panning
(Guaranteed Gold)

Learn the secrets of the early prospectors, watch historic mining methods come to life, then try your luck panning genuine local paydirt under expert guidance.

Every visitor is guaranteed to leave with gold in hand and a one-of-a-kind Polish & Pan keepsake — a true piece of the West Coast to treasure forever.

Fun. Authentic. Unforgettable.100% locally sourced

Small group sessions · Maximum 16 guests.

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Close-up of a person's hands grinding a piece of green stone on a mechanical polishing wheel.

Jade Shaping Workshop
(Pounamu Pendant)

Create your very own Pounamu pendant using 100% genuine West Coast Pounamu, sourced locally from the rivers and coastline of the West Coast.

In this 2-hour hands-on carving experience, you’ll select a raw piece of Pounamu and learn how to shape, smooth, and polish it into a beautiful wearable pendant. With guidance from our instructors, you’ll use professional carving tools and polishing equipment to bring out the natural colour and shine of your stone.

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What People Are Saying…

"Epic new business in the heart of Hokitika, West Coast. Brook has worked hard to produce an accessible offering, suitable for the whole family - ensuring a quality of service and activity for all to enjoy."

Lucretia Maitland
“A fantasatic indoor activity in the town centre for individuals and families."

Samantha Beneke
"Awesome! Knowledgeable people who love what they do are the best. Walking away with your own gold after planning for it."

Chris Ainge
"Very amazing experience and lovely staff would recommend."

Ava Han
"Wonderful experience. Brook and Scotty were amazing with the kids. The keepsake coaster is super special."

Alex Marshall

Make your visit to Hokitika unforgettable!

Uncover real West Coast gold or shape your own pounamu pendant — and leave with a meaningful memento and memories you'll carry forever.

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Close-up of a wooden jewelry box with a ring inside. The ring is gold with a small gemstone, placed on a black velvet cushion.

Give The Gift of Gold

At the front of our space, you'll find a curated retail store filled with handcrafted gold products made right here on the Coast.

We also partner with local West Coast artisans and small businesses to bring you exclusive pieces you won't find anywhere else — the perfect keepsake or gift from your Hokitika adventure.

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