Filming a reality show isn’t all glitz and gold—sometimes, it’s bow buns, dairy farms, and unexpected adventures. As part of Gold Rush: Parker’s Trail, we spent three months exploring New Zealand, prospecting for gold and experiencing the country’s stunning landscapes.
Our journey took us to various mining sites, where we assisted in prospecting and ran heavy machinery. One stop left us particularly impressed—beautiful views and surprisingly good food on-site. As someone used to the desert, the lush greenery of New Zealand was a refreshing change.
Not every day was about mining. One morning, we found ourselves on a dairy farm, milking cows—a far cry from digging for gold. Parker, always up for a challenge, gave it a shot, and we shared a few laughs at the unexpected detour.
Evenings were spent unwinding. We played pool at a pub, camped under the stars, and later found ourselves in Hāku, enjoying beachside drinks after the local pub closed early. The downtime with the crew helped balance out long days of filming and hard work.
At another mining site, we struck an interesting find—Michael, our operator, carefully panned through material meant for waste, ensuring no gold was overlooked. It’s this kind of attention to detail that separates the amateurs from the pros in gold mining.
From scenic coastlines to rich gold-bearing ground, Parker’s Trail in New Zealand was an unforgettable experience. Who knew mining could lead to so many surprises along the way?
