Skippers is part of Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve, among the hills and valleys that fed much of Wakatipu's 1860s gold fever. The reserve was established in 1985 from Mount Aurum Station and annually attracts tens of thousands of visitors wanting to explore the 9,100-hectare reserve, despite the challenges of getting there. The reserve begins after crossing the historic Skippers suspension bridge. Opened in 1901 it's the most spectacular of its kind in New Zealand. On the terrace above is a virtual ghost town, the remnants of Skippers Township, once the largest gold settlement on the Shotover River. Mount Aurum Reserve offers dramatic views and opportunities to walk, tramp, camp, paint, kayak, mountain bike, picnic and raft - you can even bring your dog.