Extended Picture Caption Release from Shotover Jet

Eleven-year-old Andie Gillings couldn’t believe her luck as she dug up the one and only gold nugget from the beach beside the Shotover River, Queenstown, on Saturday (November 17). Valued at $2300, Andie had staked her claim as Queenstown’s latest gold digger.

The gold dig was part of Shotover Jet’s Locals Day, celebrating 150 years since gold was discovered on the Shotover River. Locals were treated to discounted trips on the world’s most exciting jet boat ride, all proceeds going to Wakatipu High School’s E-xcellerate project.

Andie was one of just under a hundred children who took part in a treasure hunt on the Friday. Names were then drawn from correct entries and just 40 children were given the chance to take part in the dig.

Shotover Jet Marketing Manager Nigel Kerr said the day was an “overwhelming” success.

“Locals were lining up at 7am ready for their jet boat ride,” he said. “With such a huge line-up we can expect a generous donation to Wakatipu High.

“There were so many happy faces, but especially our gold digging winner Andie.”