Australian Mining Institute visit

Members of the Australian Mining Institute visited in October while attending a conference in Cromwell.

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35 enthusiasts visited the Camp and learned about the history and how the camp's residents contributed to the local gold mining history.

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Lawrence Heritage Day, 4 November 2018

The Camp opened for the recent Heritage Day celebrations in Lawrence.  Despite the chilly weather many families called in to inspect the camp and to learn more about its future.  It was pleasing to see the enthusiasm from the local school children about the town history and the Chinese Camp.  The Trust was very happy to open the site to the public on this special day in Lawrence and look forward to participating again next year.

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Otago University archives

Lawrence Chinese Camp trustees Prof Richard Walter, Malcolm Wong and Peter Cummings at University of Otago looking at some of the camp's artefacts stored there.

Poon Fah Day

Poon Fah Day was held on March 9th, 2019 as an invitation event.

Members of the Chinese community came from China, Wellington and Dunedin along with Friends of the Camp to celebrate the relationship between the Lawrence Chinese Camp and the Poon Fah Association NZ.

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The guests enjoyed a Chinese-style lunch, listened to music played by Chinese musicians and the OSCA Lion Dancers entertained everyone with their dance and drums.

The dragon marquee provided the perfect back drop and   great shelter as the day was warm and sunny. 

Joss House repairs

Work is underway on repairs to the Joss House.  The exterior rotten timber has been replaced and repainted and the interior repaired. 

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Did you know our Joss House is the only one in New Zealand?

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Artefacts from the camp

Artefacts from the camp on display at Lawrence Museum at 17 Ross Place in Lawrence.  Click here for current opening times.

Chinese New Year 'Year of the Pig'

A successful Chinese New Year celebration was held on February 19th, 2019 at the Camp, despite the challenging weather! 

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There were Chinese dancers and Lion dancers, along with other activities for the children to enjoy.  Stu Edgcumbe   was on site to demonstrate how to gold pan.  Hot refreshments and a Chinese-style lunch with pork cooked in the pig oven were available and enjoyed by all. 

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Watch this space for next Chinese New Year, 'Year of the Rat'.

Lawrence Community Consultation Meeting

This meeting was held at Simpson Park on March 13th, 2019. 

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The purpose of the meeting was to inform Lawrence residents about what is proposed for the Camp in the future. 

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A new concept plan has been written, showcasing what is  proposed. The main points  are  restoration of the hotel and stable buildings, building of a visitor centre, a carpark,  Chinese-style garden and children's playground etc.  Stage 2 will include a cafe/restaurant and accommodation based on demand. 

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The feedback from the meeting was positive.  The camp will  become an employer of local people and a Chinese Cultural Heritage attraction. 

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If you would like a copy of the concept plan, please contact us.