A stranger arrives in town and interrupts a secret council between the men of Hokitika. The events from the night Crosbie Wells died are pieced together.

In 1865 two young adventurers, Anna Wetherell and Emery Staines, meet on the last day of their voyage to New Zealand.

Lydia and Carver hatch a plan to free Carver from his convict past. Emery sets sail to the goldfields in search of Anna. In 1866, the results of Crosbie Wells' autopsy are revealed.

In 1865, Emery and Anna have a disastrous reunion in Hokitika, Emery learns about Carver's past and Quee makes a rewarding discovery. In 1866, hope is fading for Anna - in desperation she takes matters into her own hands.

Anna's suspicions are aroused as Lydia prepares to host a party. Lauderback is blackmailed. In 1866, Crosbie Wells is buried.

Anna is tried for murder. New evidence reveals a connection between Lauderback and Crosbie Wells.