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 goldminers and visitors will soon experience the Camp of old through a virtual reality recreation 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.
James Ng, Founder
1936 - 2024
Prominent historian and medical practitioner, Dr James Ng, recognising the importance of the Lawrence Chinese Camp in the history of New Zealand, purchased the land that was the site of the Camp, in 2004. Jim founded the Lawrence Chinese Camp Charitable Trust and chaired the Trust with his vision to promote cultural identity and preserve the site's historical footprint.
Dr Ng passed away peacefully on 5 March 2024. As requested by Jim's family - to continue his lifetime work in New Zealand Chinese history and heritage, contributions can be made in his memory to be used for the restoration and development of the Lawrence Chinese Camp.
What's On
The Lawrence Chinese Camp Charitable Trust are offering the public the opportunity to be part of the archaeology excavations, being conducted by the University of Otago in December 2024.
The archaeology work is part of the site restoration project and required before plumbing/electrical trenching and building construction can begin. Some titles being excavated may have been residents of the camp and we would love to hear from camp descendants as we will endeavour to coordinate a day for family groups to participate when these areas are excavated.
This is a unique and possibly, once in a lifetime chance to be involved in an archaeology event at the Lawrence Chinese Camp. The cost for a daily entry is $100 per person and includes lunch, speakers and activities. Places are limited, click here for more information or email info@lawrencechinesecamp.co.nz
