Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage Adventure in Queenstown
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable standing and moving around indoors for up to 90 minutes; no special fitness required.
Overview
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.
Jackpot in the Miner's Cottage
Ages 7+ • 1 hour • Hunt for the Gold Rush’s greatest treasure!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 1.5-hour adventure to uncover the legendary "Mother Lode" of the Shotover River, the richest gold river in the world. Step into the Gold Rush Cottage, solve intriguing puzzles, and discover the origins of the largest gold nugget ever found in Queenstown's history. Will you strike gold?
Hunt for the Gold Rush’s greatest treasure, the mother lode of the world’s richest river!
Duration
1.5 hours - 1 hour to solve the room + briefing & group photos
About
A miner in Skippers Canyon was prospecting on Shotover River, the richest river of gold in the world. He has been found dead of natural causes after finding the largest gold nugget ever discovered in Queenstown’s history.
Before he died he claimed to have found the Shotover River’s “Mother Lode” (source of all the gold in the river) and this was where the nugget was from. So step back in time into the Gold Rush Cottage, hit the Jackpot by finding the gold nugget plus it’s origin and Escape!
Difficulty
Moderate
More Info
Integrated Technology* = Moderate Integrated Mechanics* = High
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Check In
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time at 53 Shotover Street for a smooth check-in process.
Work as a Team
This adventure fits groups of 2 to 7; clear communication and collaborative problem-solving improve your chances of success.
Suitable for Ages 7 and Up
The activity is family-friendly but involves moderate difficulty puzzles, so younger kids may need some help.
Moderate Physical Activity
While mostly an indoor puzzle experience, expect to be on your feet and moving within confined spaces for the full hour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots known for curiosity
- Native New Zealand fantail birds flitting through town
History
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.
Conservation
Thrillzone emphasizes minimal environmental impact by offering indoor, technology-driven experiences that reduce pressure on delicate natural sites nearby.
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Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy yet comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet during the entire experience.
Layered Clothing
Layering suits Queenstown’s variable climate and indoor temperature variations inside the cottage.
Water Bottle
Keep hydrated between sessions or outdoor activities before or after your adventure.
Notebook and Pen
Helpful if you want to jot down clues or map your findings during puzzles.