Eliza Mine Loop Track

From Thompson’s Track carpark the walking track descends down an old bulldozed path to meet the Old Eliza Mine Pack Track just after the Waitekohe Stream then climbs to join an old pack track. This track was established when the mine was working to pack in supplies and equipment. The pack track follows the gully above the stream for an hour to the Mt Eliza junction. Follow the steep ridge to the Eliza mine area.

There is a small clearing, which was the site of the miner’s camp and ore testing plant. From here the track is graded around the steep slopes of Mt Eliza. The main mine entrance is to the left while the right hand track climbs to a short prospecting drive before continuing up to the top of Mt Eliza (40 minutes from mine).

Return to the junction on the pack track and continue following it up the valley. The track crosses the Waitekohe Stream and zigzags up to meet Thompsons Track. Follow this roughly formed road back to the carpark. Keep a look out for the 4WD vehicles and mountain bikes that also use this road.

Alternative route via Mt Eliza and the North South Track

From the Mt Eliza mine area the Mt Eliza Track continues upwards to a short prospecting drive before continuing on to the summit of Mt Eliza (40 minutes from the mine). The track then continues westward for 1 hour to join the North South Track. Motutapere Hut is a 30 minute walk northwards from the junction of the Mt Eliza Track and the North South Track.

Eliza Mine Loop Track is on Thompsons Track off SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati.

There is a river crossing on this track.

Consult a topographic map.

You must be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen.