Age and experience add value to the trail
The Timber Trail, a premier two-day Great Ride nestled in the heart of Pureora Forest, attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually. This popular destination not only boosts the local economy but also serves as a vital space for recreation, contributing significantly to the health and wellbeing of Waikato and Ruapehu residents.
Managed by the Department of Conservation, the trail has recently received much-needed attention to its ride surface. Led by the Friends of Timber Trail, a group of fifteen dedicated volunteers with an average age well into their seventies, set out last week to make substantial improvements.
Over the course of two days, the team cleared drains and culverts, filled potholes, removed overgrown vegetation, cleaned signs, and more along a 22-kilometer stretch of the trail. Their efforts have dramatically upgraded the riding experience and ensured the trail’s resilience against weather conditions.
Team doing the mahi on an old bush tramway cutting
The trail, complete with its eight suspension bridges, is a favourite among Te Araroa Trail walkers, Tour Aotearoa bike packers, and cyclists enjoying the two-day ride. Thanks to the volunteers' hard work, it is on its way to being truly great again.
In the past year, the Friends of Timber Trail have dedicated hundreds of hours to various projects. They have completed a new toilet block and shelter at the Ongarue end of the trail, installed a new shelter at the trail’s high point, and undertaken regular maintenance. The volunteers, whose average age is well above seventy, come from diverse backgrounds including ex-farmers, contractors, and passionate riders. Some also help with pest control efforts in this vital conservation forest. Our volunteers were looked after thanks to the support of Timber Trail Adventures and Blackfern Lodge.
Great Rides belong to their communities, and the support of volunteers, companies, and individuals is crucial to their success. To make a difference, visit fott.org.nz or timbertrail.nz/support.
Left to right team: Russell, Jessie, Gordon, Bill, Bruce, John, Trevor, Judy, Guy, Murray, Mike, Mark, Mike (& Lynley not shown)
Bill Holloway using his decades of experience to support the volunteer effort
Preparing the the days mahi
