Waitawheta Tramway
Located in Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park in the Bay of Plenty region
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Introduction
Follow an old tramline (1898 - 1928) on a relatively flat track through the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge - with interpretation panels as well, it's a great option for kids.19 km return via same track
Dog access
Image gallery
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Relics and replicas bring the history to life along the Waitawheta Tramway Image: Visionmedia ©
![Reconstructed logging bogie.]( "Reconstructed logging bogie.")
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Reconstructed logging bogie on the Waitawheta Tramway Image: Visionmedia ©
![Young people sitting on logging bogie.]( "Young people sitting on logging bogie.")
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Stay at the Waitawheta Hut, located on the site of the old logging mill Image: tjrehmann | Creative Commons
![Waitawheta Hut.]( "Waitawheta Hut.")
Follow the Waitawheta Tramway, stopping at the various information signs to find out when, why and how the tramway was built. The tramway is relatively flat, and nice and wide. After about an hour and a half the track crosses a large suspension bridge to the site of a replica logging bogie (a tram cart that carried the massive logs). This is a great spot for lunch and to spend time taking photographs.
A short loop track near to the logging bogie offers a detour to the site of an electricity pylon dating from around the year 1900. To complete a shorter, easier trip, return from the logging bogie back down the tramway to the car park.
Alternatively, continue south along the tramline through the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge. The main track requires one river crossing but there is a bypass track that requires just a few small side stream crossings. The main track then leaves the river and through a campsite before reaching the toilet bowl waterfall, the Waitawheta Hut, and the site of the old logging mill. Return via the same track, or spend the night to explore more of the park.
Family friendly option
A shorter walk with no river crossings can be taken, just over an hour up the tramway to the site of a replica logging bogie which shows how kauri were transported down the valley. This trip takes in the lower tramway with information boards explaining the story of kauri logging here, before returning the same way to the car park. Suitable for older children.
The start of the track is about 11 km from Waihi.
In Waihi, turn off SH 2 onto Kenny Street. Turn right into Victoria Street and follow this as it becomes Frankton Road, then Waitawheta Road. After about 9 km, turn off Waitawheta Road into Franklin Road. Take care as this is private property. Follow this to the parking area at the end.
This track should not be attempted when heavy rain is forecast from the north to south east direction.
The bypass track requires crossing a few small side streams that could flood high enough to be hazardous in an extreme rain event.
No mountain biking
Mountain biking is not allowed on this track.
Waitawheta is one of the most spectacular bush tramways ever built. A relatively lengthy (14 km) section survives in near pristine condition.
This busy tramway operated from 1898 to 1928 and involved three companies; the Waihi Gold Mining Co, the Kauri Timber Co, and the Waitawheta Sawmilling Co. The motive power included horses, geared steam, and rail tractors. The route featured spectacular viaducts and rock cuttings.
Waitawheta Hut is located on the site of the Waitawheta Sawmilling Co. cookhouse.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
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| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| taurangainfo@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |
