Timber Trail

New Zealand Cycle Trail

Waikato, North Island

The 77-kilometer Pureora Timber Trail joins two old logging tramways in the Pureora Forest running from Puerora, southwards toward Ongarue. The northern end comprises the Waione Tramway and in the southern end is Ongarue Tramway. Cyclists will pass through four ecological areas showcasing remnants of the great forests that once dominated this remote area of New Zealand's North Island. The Pureora Timber Trail traverses Mount Pureora then runs along the western side of the Hauhungaroa Range before dropping down to Ongarue.

Pureora is a former saw milling stronghold with a rich historic, cultural and natural heritage. The whole trail echoes remnants of the historic logging industry in New Zealand including the most complete historic timber mill and village in New Zealand (Eadan’s mill). It will traverse the western side of the Hauhungaroa Range through Pureora Forest Park.

The Purora Timber Trail will run along the historic Ellis and Burnand Ongarue Tramway (1922 - 1958) for over half its length as well as old logging roads and new sections of track through Pureora Forest Park. The tramway, which is mostly on DoC land, is the longest bush tramway in New Zealand, still in original condition and has the bonus of a spiral. This triumph in bush engineering comprises of a low level bridge, a very deep cutting, a curved tunnel, and a complete circle of track known as the Ongarue Spiral - which will be restored. Once finished the route will include a new 85-meter long, 30-meter high suspension bridge over the Mangatukutuku Stream.

Construction of the original tramway began in 1922 by Ellis and Burnand after building their mill at Ongarue in 1914. In 1955 the tramway was closed due to flood damage, followed by the mill closure in 1966. Much of the tramway survives. Cyclists can expect to experience spectacular rock formations, traverse deep tramway cuttings and embankments and pass through extensive native bush with abundant birdlife.

Cyclists beginn in Pureora Forest village and head south towards Mt Pureora through native bush and exotic forest. The highest point is the western flank of Mount Pureora before descending into an ideal lunch stop at Angels Rest. The day would end at Piropiro where there are camping facilities.

Day two departs from Piropiro Flats towards one of the first of several swing bridges at Maramataha and continues to the old Waione cookhouse. A feature of the afternoon is the 90 meter suspension bridge over Mangatukutuku Stream and a reconstructed timber trestle bridge at Goat Creek. The restored Ongarue Spiral is the highlight of day two.

Pureora Forest itself has some magnificent mountain bikes trails such as: Okahukura Loop Road; Pureora Mountain Biking areas; Select Loop Road; and Waione Tram Mountain Bike Track

Timber Trail

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