DoC Plans a Central North Island Rail Trail

DoC is planning a major rail trail between the historic settlements of Pureora and Ongarue, based on the very successful Otago Central Rail Trail.

An internal DoC study in 2007 determined that after the OCRT, Ongarue Tramway had the best potential remaining multi-day trail opportunity in New Zealand. The new trail would run virtually the length of the Hauhungaroa Range on the western side and provide 65 kms of trail for walking, cycling, horse trekking, fishing, photography etc.

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, a complete circle of track and an over bridge. Plans for the trail include rebuilding the Ongarue Spiral and a replica steam train, modern facilities, services, accommodation and perhaps recreating old cookhouses.

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 unmodified and DoC is certain it has huge potential.

There are many stages needed to bring the proposal to reality, including consultation, funding, the replacement of eight bridges and upgrading the trail. DoC are currently looking at a two to five year framework.

Wendy Martin

E #111 (on right) alongside Climax #1650 on the Ellis and Burnand tramway at Ongarue. On this extensive tramway, the Climax worked between the mill and the Wiaone camp siding while the 'E' worked from there to the bush loading points. Photograph by Peter Mellor.