Before the battery started: mining at Waiorongomai from late 1881 to late 1883

Abstract

Throughout 1882 and 1883 hopes remained high for developing a successful goldfield, with some encouraging ore being found and experts praising the reefs. Investors were interested in the field, which officials expected to succeed. Competition for ground continued, with some attempts to jump claims. Tracks were required to access the mines and to take out parcels for testing, but construction of these was slow, and parts of the upper road were too steep for pack horses and required almost constant repairs. As some men shepherded their claims for speculative purposes, the warden required claims to be worked. Although neither officials not miners wanted ground locked up and not worked, intensive development was not possible until the tramway and a battery were constructed. Share trading continued, and by April 1883 17 companies had been formed, often before their claims were adequately prospected. As the battery was readied, more miners returned, with high expectations for the results of the first crushing.