Te Aroha Mountain Gold Mining Walking Tracks
About the Business
Welcome to Te Aroha Mountain Gold Mining Walking Tracks, located in the picturesque Waiorongomai Valley near Te Aroha, New Zealand. Situated within the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, our establishment offers an immersive experience into the rich history of gold mining in the region.
In 1881, gold was discovered in the Waiorongomai Valley by prospector Hone Werahiko, marking the beginning of a bustling gold rush era. Although subsequent engineering projects faced challenges due to the low yields from the hard rock of the gold-bearing reef, the remnants of these endeavors provide valuable insights into Te Aroha's gold rush days.
Our institution features a range of walking trails that meander through key historic gold mining sites. One notable area is the Piako County Tramway, which holds the distinction of being New Zealand's oldest bush tramway with original rails still intact. Visitors can explore the machinery, remnants of gold mines, and miners' lodgings that dot the Waiorongomai Valley.
We offer several walking trails suitable for different ages and fitness levels. The Fern Spur Incline and Low Level Loop walk are ideal for older kids, while the walk to the base of the Fern Spur Incline caters to younger children and families with strollers. The Low Level Loop encompasses significant sites in the lower Waiorongomai goldfields, while the Butlers Incline to Premier Creek track takes walkers along tramways and through tunnels, culminating at Premier Creek.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the New Era Branch Track offers an alternative route to the head of the valley, while the Kauri Grove route showcases regenerating kauri forest and grants access to the old Bendigo Battery site. The High Level Pack Track treats hikers to stunning waterfalls and numerous mine portals, including the historic mining camp Quartzville. Furthermore, our location serves as a gateway to longer overnight walks accessible from various tracks within the Waiorongomai Valley.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and natural beauty of the Waiorongomai Valley at Te Aroha Mountain Gold Mining Walking Tracks. Explore the remnants of a bygone era, marvel at the scenic landscapes, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Plan your visit today and embark on a journey through time and nature.
Photos
Location & Phone number
Waiorongomai Road, Te Aroha West, Waikato 3391, New Zealand
Reviews
"I liked here. Good destination to walk"
"Excellent walking tracks, well marked and sign posted. Buck Rock has great views. Other tracks have great historic sites, old tramway, mine shafts, inclines. From easy trails to multi day tramping trails."
"We went with our two boys. It was such an adventure ! Our legs got tired about half way up. Would definitely be back to go all the way to the top...with out our kids."
"Must do of you're in the area. All the walks are well signposted and indicate times too. Walks range from 30min to 4hrs+. Lots of locals so be sure to get there early as the carpark can fill up quite quickly and are small. There's heaps of information boards all around to read up on and understand what's happened in the 1880's onwards when the mine was in operation. Would recommend doing the shorter walks with kids up to the butler incline, its quite steep."
"Great place for a day walk. Lots to explore. Lots of history here and in beautiful bush. Take warm clothes and a rain jacket as it is in the shade and it takes time to get out once you are in. It is useful to take a touch for explanation too. There are a good combination of tracks from easy to steep all with very informative reading boards along the way so worth a read to understand the history. Most tracks have signs, and time directions. Shorter tracks are 30 minutes one way, longer tracks 2.5 hours and you are climbing up slow angles so worth taking food and drinks on these longer ones. Cell phone coverage is in and out and you are in mature bush where the weather can change with no notice so worth taking the time to be prepared. The tracks are in reasonable condition. There is a rock climbing face if you are into carrying some base climbing gear too. The mine shafts are wet floor with roof falls in reasonable condition. There is good parking. But seems to be local cars coming into see what cars are parked there as our surveillance picked up the same cars coming looking around and leaving. So I wouldn't leave possessions in your vehicle. However well worth exploring."
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