Welcome
Established in 1867, the Lawrence Chinese Camp is the earliest and largest Chinese gold mining settlement in the region of Otago in New Zealand.
At its peak, in the late 1880’s, the Camp was a thriving trading hub catering to Chinese miners in the Tuapeka District of Otago and to those travelling through, and was home to over 120 residents.
The Camp is a category 1 New Zealand Heritage historic place with three original buildings remaining: the Empire Hotel, the stables and the Poon Fah Joss House.
Preservation and restoration of the heritage buildings is underway. There are plans to create museum spaces showcasing the history of Otago's Chinese gold-miners and visitors will soon experience the Camp of old through a virtual reality re-creation of the archeological site.
Situated just 1.2km outside the picturesque township of Lawrence, the camp is located along State Highway 8 and the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail.
Update
We have been eagerly waiting for this news and are pleased to share that we have gained building consent for the restoration work of two buildings at Lawrence Chinese Camp. Stage 1 work (water/waste/electrical trenching and installation) is underway and we are now fundraising for the Stage 2 construction work.
Thank you to Origin Consultants, Engineer Stephen MacKnight and Southern Plumbing and Heating for their work. Also to Clutha District Council for their funding contribution of building consent fees.
What's On
EWE DRIVE
We are now seeking local support to help get the building restoration underway. This is the most exciting phase to date as there will be physical changes to the camp buildings.
Can you help with this fund raising initiative by donating an old ewe or two?
If so, call our Trustees to arrange drop off/pick up
Geoff - 027 474 8098
Roger - 027 284 6270
