GOLD, GOLD, GOLD!
It's the mid-1800s and a group of Scottish Puritans arrive at the bottom of the world, seeking the freedom to practice their religion. But a gold rush shatters their peace. Entrepreneurs and desperados flood into Dunedin, drink the pubs dry, then make their way inland to Gabriel's Gully, Central Otago. Many don't make it due to mishap or, in the winter, being frozen alive.
Meanwhile, the Scots have plenty of skills, and soon 'Mud-edin' develops into a liveable town. Over 10 years, the colonial settlement of Dunedin expands rapidly into New Zealand's largest and wealthiest city--all thanks to the power of GOLD GOLD GOLD.
Wagon trains and prospectors pour out of Dunedin town, bound for Central Otago's and the hope of finding their fortune. Many die by the wayside or by
Looking like butter wouldn't melt? Don't mistake the at-ease pose of Miss Billie Frost.
Princes Street Dunedin, 1858. The small mountain was carved through by by prisoners, to create an easier passage to north-leading George Street.
More about Southern Gold
A young, unwed mother is cast out of a wealthy family home with a one-week-old baby. Almost dead, they are found on a freezing track and taken in by a back-street couple. The child is named Billie Frost.
It is the 1850s, a gold rush is in full swing and the word is that Dunedin's city streets are paved with gold. The slums are buzzing too - with pubs, prostitutes and shady deals. Billie learns to hustle and charm with the best of them.
She is curious and intelligent beyond her years, but is impulsive - and the boy she most admires calls her 'a catastrophe on legs'.
A stylish gentleman is astounded to see a family likeness in Billie's distinctive eyes. While she grows and thrives in the back streets, he decides to plan a very different future for her.
As the riotous and religious collide in early Dunedin, the bold and quirky Billie is right there in the action.
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There's that look, again: someting is sure to be brewing.
George Street 1902, heading north, with a glimpse of The Octagon bottom right. Billie's salon is on the left, obout opposite the second tramcar.
More about Threads of Gold
Billie is now married to her childhood sweetheart and has bevy of children. She has style, smarts and attitude.
She's a suffragette lobbying for women's right to vote, and is on the spot when the New Zealand government grants their long-fought petition into law.
Like the Billie of old, she rallies against social injustices and provokes the establishment. She builds friendships with the new Lebanese settlers and makes valuable business connections. Her fashion design business is a great success.
Then, as the new century dawns, things start to unravel. Out of her depth with worry and wild plans, Billie comes to the brink of disaster.
Behind this passionate, impetuous woman is the enduring love of her family and friends - but will it be enough to save her?