Waitawheta Tramway, Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park

A tramline through the bush

The Waitawheta Tramway follows an old bush tramline through Waitawheta Gorge. It is relatively flat and wide, with information signs explaining when, why and how the route was built. The tramway operated from 1898 to 1928, involving the Waihi Gold Mining Co, the Kauri Timber Co and the Waitawheta Sawmilling Co. DOC

The line’s working history is visible in its engineering and motive power: horses, geared steam and rail tractors hauled timber along a route of viaducts and rock cuttings. A relatively lengthy 14 km section survives in near pristine condition. The track makes that industrial corridor legible as a journey through the gorge rather than a collection of isolated relics. DOC

The logging bogie choice

After about an hour and a half, the track crosses a large suspension bridge to a replica logging bogie, the tram cart used to carry massive logs. The bogie is a natural turnaround for a shorter outing: return from here down the tramway to the car park. DOC describes a shorter walk of just over an hour to this site, with no river crossings, suitable for older children. DOC

A short loop near the bogie detours to an electricity pylon dating from around the year 1900. This adds a second layer to the route’s history, showing infrastructure beyond the timber tramway itself. The bogie also works as a practical lunch and photography stop before deciding whether to turn back or continue deeper into the gorge. DOC

Further into Waitawheta Gorge

Continuing south along the tramline takes the longer route through the gorge. The main track requires one river crossing; a bypass instead crosses a few small side streams. The main route then leaves the river and passes through a campsite before reaching the toilet bowl waterfall, Waitawheta Hut and the old logging mill site. DOC

The full outing is listed as 19 km return via the same track, taking 8 hr return; one way is listed at 3-4 hrs. Returning by the same route keeps the tramway’s historic line as the organising thread. Alternatively, the hut offers an overnight option for exploring more of the park; it stands on the site of the Waitawheta Sawmilling Co. cookhouse. DOC

Access and conditions

The start is about 11 km from Waihi. From town, take Kenny Street off SH 2, then Victoria Street, which becomes Frankton Road and Waitawheta Road. After about 9 km, turn onto Franklin Road and follow it to the parking area at the end; take care because Franklin Road is private property. DOC

Do not attempt the track when heavy rain is forecast from the north to south east direction. The bypass streams can flood to hazardous levels in an extreme rain event, so the alternative crossing route still depends on conditions. No dogs are allowed, and mountain biking is not permitted on the track. DOC