Crowds thronged the historic gold rush town for its annual heritage day, and were rewarded with a range of old-time attractions for vintage enthusiasts of all ages.
Ned (11) said he was yet to strike gold yesterday morning, although he remained hopeful.
"I found a few pieces of gold at school camp, although it’s kind of tricky.
"There’s lots of different techniques of how to do it, but if you get it right you might find some."
Seasoned panner and volunteer Jimmy McPherson, of Kaitangata, said it was the "promise of untold riches" that attracted visitors to the panning shed on heritage day.
"Biggest nugget I’ve found in 60 years is about two grams, but even a beginner can usually find some fragments on their first pan.
"We get the youngsters queuing up sometimes, it’s that popular."
Elsewhere in Lawrence, visitors could choose from a smorgasbord of diversions.
Tuapeka Vintage Club president Rodger Anderson said organisers were delighted with the turnout, after several years disrupted by Covid-19.
"This seems to be one of the better turnouts we’ve had, and the sun’s come out now so I expect we’ll see more this afternoon.
"The heritage day is something everyone in Lawrence looks forward to, not least the vintage club, as we get to crank everything up and see it in action. There’s truly something for everyone to find interest in and enjoy."
Mr Anderson said he was excited to see recent plans for tourism in the town.
In September, the Clutha District Council released draft proposals for a $4.8 million "destination experience" centred on Gabriel’s Gully.
"Local people have already done amazing things, so some additional investment to help highlight that and take advantage of the incoming cycle trail can’t be a bad thing."
