Pureora Forest's Forestry History
Pureora Forest Park, located in the central North Island of New Zealand, is not only a haven for ancient native forest, but also a site rich in forestry history. The Department of Conservation (DOC) has preserved several pieces of vintage forestry equipment, providing insight into the area's logging past.
Vintage Equipment on Display
On Hill Road (Pikiariki Road on the DOC site and unnamed on Topo NZ), a small sign marks the entrance to a collection of historical forestry equipment. Here, you can see the remains of a steam log haulier, which was used until the late 1940s to transport logs from the forest. Nearby, a McCormick Deering tractor from the 1930s is also on display, with a panel explaining its historical significance.
Further along Hill Road, you will find a well-preserved D7 bulldozer and a Hysler logging arch. These are located just before the access track for the Forest Tower. An informative panel accompanies the display, detailing the equipment's role in past forestry activities.
The Forest's Logging Legacy
The area where these pieces of equipment are located was once logged and later replanted with exotic pines. This section of the forest serves as a poignant reminder of how close New Zealand came to losing its native forests. It contrasts with the nearby remnant native forest at Forest Tower and the Pureora entrance to the park.
Additional Historical Exhibits
For those interested in more historical exhibits, the Historic Crawler Tractor Track on Link Road features a similar display of old forestry equipment, offering further insights into the region's logging history.
How to Get There
From the Timber Trail entrance to the park on Barryville Road, head north past the Link Road turnoff and Ngaherenga Campsite. After a short drive, you will see Hill Road (as named on Google Maps) on the right. Drive east on Hill Road for 100 metres to a short access road to the steam log haulier and McCormick Deering tractor. Continue on Hill Road to the Forest Tower track for the other equipment.
The Historic Crawler Tractor Track on Link Road also provides an opportunity to explore more of the park's forestry history.
For nearby short walks to the ancient forest, check out the Totara Walk and the Rimu Walk. For a more extended immersion, cycle the Timber Trail.
