At the time of the first crushing, at the end of 1883, hopes for a prosperous goldfield were high because of its well-constructed tramway, water races, and battery and because of the many apparently payable mines. Within a few months, the field’s reputation had plummeted, as formerly promising ground had proved to be unpayable. It had become clear that the costs of carriage and treatment were too high and that a better method of treatment was required. Despite the many reports of good discoveries keeping hopes alive, fears spread that the field might not be permanent. Despite more prospecting and a second battery being erected, eventually, Waiorongomai’s fortunes failed to improve. Two new mining areas were discovered, at Stoney Creek and,...