Waimangaroa

As early as 1861, gold was discovered at Waimangaroa River, 15 km north of Westport, but finds were patchy. After the discovery of the first quartz reef a few years later, the Great Republic and Britannia Mines had moderate success.

Right now, a small town with a few retired folk and those sadly laid of from the Cement works in Westport and the Stockton mine. Also a fascinating Cemetery which gives a very clear understanding of the hardships endured by early mining families on the plateau above.