Abstract
Thousands of Chinese and European miners occupied the goldfields of Central Otago during the late nineteenth century. Popular belief and previous research has suggested that identifiable differences exist in the dwellings and gold workings of the two groups. No research has been carried out into settlement patterns on the goldfields.
Data on dwellings and workings were recorded during site surveys of three high altitude valleys in the Old Man and Carrick Ranges. Analysis of this data demonstrates that no significant differences could be found between the dwellings and workings of the Chinese and European miners. Limited research on settlement pattern indicates that the major influence on site location was exposure to sunshine.
The excavation of a hut site in the Old Man Range showed that hut construction was minimal. The presence of low walls indicates that the roof and walls may have largely been of canvas or sacking. Analysis of charcoal from the fireplace revealed a reliance on small shrubs for fuel, reflecting the poverty of woody plants in high altitude areas.