Sitting on a gold mine in Puhipuhi

The Northland's Puhipuhi was where gold was discovered in the 19th century, and might well be found again. Photos by Steven McNicholl

Evan Smeath stands in an old mine shaft on his property. Evan is a farmer on what is known as the Hikerenui swamp, where gold was once mined. Photo / Steven McNicholl

Image 1 of 7: Evan Smeath stands in an old mine shaft on his property. Evan is a farmer on what is known as the Hikerenui swamp, where gold was once mined. Photo / Steven McNicholl