Leyland O'Brien Tramline Track
Track category
Tramping track
Time:
2 hr one way to the junction with North-South Track
Distance:
6.3 km one way to the junction with North-South Track
Description
Remains of the tramline are visible along several sections of track
This track follows a logging tramline through the bush, connecting Whakamarama to the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park.
From Whakamarama Road end the track descends down for 100m to the junction of the Leyland O'Brien Tramline and Ngamarama Tracks. Take the left track, which follows the old tramline besides the headwaters of the Ngamuwahine River. This section is flat. After about 1 hour 30mins the river is crossed and the tramline climbs slightly to the junction with the Ngamuwahine track. (It is 1 hour 30 mins to Ngamuwahine Road from here).
Letland O'Brien Tramline Track continues southwest for a further 30mins to meet up with the North-South Track. Either return the same way back to Whakamarama Rd or follow the North South Track to the north and take the Ngamarama Track back to Whakamarama Road (this is a longer road trip).
Getting there
Leyland O'Brien Tramline Track is in the south of the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. It starts at the end of Whakamarama Road, just north of Tauranga off State Highway 2.
The New Zealand mapping system changed from the 23 September 2009. The following grid references correspond to Topo50 maps [2] (NZTM2000).
Grid reference for track entrance: Topo50 map sheet BD36, E1861117, N5817137
Places to stay
From the end of the Leyland O'Brien Tramline Track take the North South track south for about an hour to reach the Hurunui Hut.
About the area
The Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park between SH29 and Thompsons Track features walks along historic tramways, the spectacular Wairere Falls and a couple of basic huts suitable for overnight tramps and hunting.
Plan and prepare
Note that rivers in this area can rise very quickly after rain.
Please consult a topographic map.