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Step into Queenstown’s gold rush history at Thrillzone’s Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage. Solve puzzles inspired by the richest gold river and the largest nugget ever found on this 1.5-hour adventure.
Step into Queenstown’s gold rush history at Thrillzone’s Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage. Solve puzzles inspired by the richest gold river and the largest nugget ever found on this 1.5-hour adventure.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Thrillzone · Queenstown, Otago
Set in the heart of Queenstown, New Zealand, a town famous for its rugged landscapes and adrenaline-charged outdoor experiences, Thrillzone offers a unique twist on adventure with their "Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage." This interactive 1.5-hour experience invites guests aged 7 and up to step back into the era of the gold rush along the Shotover River, one of the richest gold-bearing rivers in the world. Located at 53 Shotover Street, this immersive escapade revolves around the story of a Skippers Canyon miner who unearthed Queenstown’s largest gold nugget before mysteriously passing away.
Participants enter the Gold Rush Cottage, a meticulously recreated environment blending integrated technology and intricate mechanical puzzles. As a team, your mission is to trace the origins of the legendary "Mother Lode" — the ultimate source of Shotover's gold riches — by solving a series of engaging challenges designed to replicate the thrill and uncertainty of a real prospecting quest. The experience expertly combines local history with hands-on problem-solving, making it much more than a typical escape room.
Thrillzone stands out as a fresh addition to Queenstown’s outdoor recreation scene, extending adventure beyond physical exertion into mental strategy and historical curiosity. The Shotover River itself remains a natural marvel, carved through ancient schist rock with swift currents and gold shimmerings that have fascinated prospectors for over a century. This activity offers visitors a chance to connect with the region’s pioneering spirit and natural wealth in a lively, approachable format.
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly challenge, a memorable way to learn about Otago’s gold rush heritage, or an engaging indoor escape with an outdoor-adventure vibe, Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage is a must-do for staying sharp and entertained while in Queenstown.
moderate.
1.5 hours.
Participants should be comfortable standing and moving around indoors for up to 90 minutes; no special fitness required.
Participants must be at least 7 years old to join the Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage experience.
Groups can range from 2 to 7 people, making it suitable for families, friends, or small teams.
While mostly an indoor escape room-style challenge, participants should be comfortable standing and moving for around 90 minutes.
Yes, booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Accessibility details are limited; please contact Thrillzone directly to discuss any specific requirements.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bringing a water bottle is advised; all essential materials for the puzzles will be provided.
The Shotover River area was one of the richest grounds for gold during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s, shaping Queenstown’s past and present.
Thrillzone emphasizes minimal environmental impact by offering indoor, technology-driven experiences that reduce pressure on delicate natural sites nearby.
Thrillzone is a multi-attraction entertainment venue located in Queenstown, Otago. The business offers a broad range of immersive experiences including Hologate VR, Omni VR multiplayer, DX Race Simulator, and New Zealand's only glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf, Putt n’ Glow. Thrillzone also operates a variety of escape experiences: indoor VR Escape Rooms, themed adventures such as Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage and Gold Heist in the Gold Rush, plus outdoor escape games like The Lost Artifact and the Outdoor Escape Adventure. Birthday Parties and Kidz Club packages are available, with customised durations and catering options to suit families and groups. For groups who prefer outdoor activities, Frisbee Golf rentals include high-quality discs, a digital map and online scorecard. Many experiences include collaborative gameplay and team elements; for example, VR Escape Rooms provide team photos and character-based puzzles, while Outdoor Escape Adventure blends scavenger hunts, augmented reality and multiple difficulty levels. Sessions range from short 30-minute experiences such as the Race Car Simulator to longer 1.5-hour adventures like Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage. The venue positions itself as a versatile events provider for birthdays, group outings and family visits in Queenstown. Staff support logistics for tailored parties and manage bookings for individual passes such as the 1-Hour Pass and Delux Deal options. Thrillzone's programming focuses on accessible play for diverse ages and interests within a compact Queenstown entertainment facility. Bookings are available online or by contacting the venue directly for groups.
Book with Thrillzone