Things to do in
Pureora Forest Park

A special place in New Zealand history

Pureora Forest Park is one of the last remaining intact podocarp forests in the world.

It was one of the last native forests to be opened up for logging, with the Ellis and Burnaud Tramway built in to transfer timber to the timber mill at Ongarue.

In 1978 environmental protestors took to platforms in the trees to prevent further logging of native timber, one of the most significant conservation battles in New Zealand’s history. The protests eventually led to the end of the logging, the forest becoming a protected area.

A conservation success story, the forest is home to a range of native wildlife, including some remarkable birdlife.

The Timber Trail

The 84km Timber Trail is a journey through Pureora Forest Park, following the historic logging tramway.

With historic relics from the timber logging days, the trail tells the stories of this unique place in New Zealand’s history.

The Timber Trail

Walks from the Timber Trail Lodge

The Rata Loop Walk

The Timber Trail Lodge is nestled into the forest, with a spectacular 1-hour loop walking trail right on the doorstep. The trail climbs up behind the lodge, through dense native forest to some giant rata trees, a must-do for your stay at the lodge.

Maramataha Bridge

Maramataha Bridge is also within walking distance of the lodge. The bridge spans 53m above the Maramataha Gorge and at 141m long is the longest bridge on the Timber Trail.

The lodge

Walking and Hiking Pureora Forest Park - Maramataha Bridge.

My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Timber Trail Lodge. The lodge is completely off the grid while still being modern, comfortable and welcoming. The food was outstanding and the staff were friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend the lodge to those seeking nature and/or adventure getaways!

Natalie R

The whole team went out of their way to make us feel welcome. Great food and endless tea! Accommodation was comfortable. Worked seamlessly with the Timber Trail Shuttles before and after the trip. Thank you!

Lucy - Aug 2021

We were well looked after. The team at the lodge were friendly and knowledgeable. The food was AMAZING and a real highlight for our always-hungry teenage sons. Lovely accommodation. Very informative commentary via Rob and great service from the bike hire/shuttle team. Top it off with stunning scenery and loads of fascinating history. A must do for families

Nikki J - July 2021

Great weekend doing the Timber Trail, 2 nights at the Timber Trail Lodge worked perfectly. Fantastic local knowledge and stories from Rob in the shuttle, Kia Ora Rob! Accommodation is superb, clean and comfortable rooms, great food after a good days MTB riding and a beer or 2 from the bar. Locally owned and operated with great stewardship of local environment and land. Thoroughly recommended!

Rob d - May 2021

Fantastic rooms, beautiful place and very helpful and friendly staff and fantastic food, catered for dairy free with ease and care. Beautiful setting and loved the beanbag on the deck. Loved everything. Thanks team Timber Trail Lodge.

Wendy

Loved this place. Family of 6 adults had a ball. Everything is well organised. Rooms excellent, great food.and a pizza to keep you going after your first days riding. You do need to be fit enough to get there! Go for the full package. It’s worth it.

Drivel K

Great value for money, awesome team looked after us so well. Totally recommend these guys you can not go wrong! Clean, new, licensed, comfortable, outstanding food, all amenities well serviced and no complaints from any of our guys.

Barry

Pureora Forest walks

There are a number of short walks from Pureora Village, at the start of the Timber Trail, including the historic crawler tractor and a 12m high forest tower, a great spot to watch the bird life and a very different perspective of this beautiful forest.

Pureora Village short walks

In the area

Mount Pureora

The summit of Mount Pureora can be reached by a side trip off the Timber Trail, well worth the walk if you have the time and good weather, the summit of Mount Pureora rewards you with panoramic views.