The Timber Museum - Putaruru

The Putaruru Timber Museum, located in the heart of the Waikato region, offers a deep dive into New Zealand's rich forestry history.

Dedicated to the timber industry that helped shape the area, the museum showcases vintage equipment, historical photos, and fascinating exhibits about the region's logging past.

Visitors can explore the development of the timber trade, its impact on local communities, and the technologies used over the years. The museum is situated near the scenic Blue Spring, famous for its crystal-clear waters, making it a great addition to a day trip.

The Taupo Totara Timber Company Ltd (TTT)  Its objective was to harvest and market timber from forests near the village of Mokai, 14 miles (23 km) northwest of Taupō  and was a leader in the industry.

Providing timber products, and building supplies the company operated between 1900 and 1972. Founded in 1900 by a group of business people led by Tudor Atkinson, and began trading in 1905. Until 1946, the TTT also operated one of New Zealand's longest privately-owned railway lines, providing passenger, freight, and mail services between Putāruru and Taupō, in the central North Island. The TTT was taken over by N.Z. Forest Products Limited in 1972.