Last updated October 2026
The Eliza Mine Loop Track follows an old pack track, built to supply a working mine, up the Waitekohe Stream valley to the remains of the Eliza mine in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed this track as closed: “Eliza Mine Loop Track is closed due to a significant slip.” It starts from the Thompsons Track car park, off SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati.
DOC grades it Advanced and gives 4–5 hr. Along the way you pass the site of the miners’ camp and ore testing plant, the main mine entrance and a short prospecting drive, with an optional climb to the top of Mt Eliza. The car park is about 28 km from Tauranga.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Eliza Mine Loop Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Thompsons Track car park, off SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati
- Distance from the city
- About 28 km from Tauranga
- Walking time
- 4–5 hr
- Track length
- 7 km loop
- Grade
- Advanced
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Closed when checked on 18 October 2026 (significant slip). Check DOC for reopening.
About Eliza Mine Loop Track
From the car park, the track descends an old bulldozed path to meet the Old Eliza Mine Pack Track just after the Waitekohe Stream, then climbs to join the old pack track. This was built while the mine was working, to carry in supplies and equipment.
The pack track follows the gully above the stream for about an hour to the Mt Eliza junction, then a steep ridge leads to the mine area. A small clearing marks the site of the miners’ camp and ore testing plant.
The track is graded around the steep slopes of Mt Eliza, with the main mine entrance to the left. To the right, a track climbs to a short prospecting drive and on to the top of Mt Eliza, about 40 minutes from the mine.
The return follows the pack track back to the junction, up the valley, across the Waitekohe Stream and up a series of zigzags to Thompsons Track, then along a roughly formed road to the car park.
Longer Option via Mt Eliza
From the top of Mt Eliza, the Mt Eliza Track runs west for about an hour to join the North-South Track. DOC notes that Motutapere Hut is a 30-minute walk north from that junction. Use Plan My Walk to check the weather and share your plans.
Track Conditions and Safety
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s alert read: “Eliza Mine Loop Track is closed due to a significant slip.” Don’t enter the closed track. Check the DOC page for reopening before you plan a trip.
There is a river crossing on the track, so don’t cross if it is flooded. On the return along the road, watch for 4WD vehicles and mountain bikes.
DOC says: “You must be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks.” Carry a topographic map, strong boots, warm clothing, a raincoat, a first aid kit, food and water. Stay out of old mine workings. Check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Eliza Mine Loop Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: North-South Track: the Kaimai Range route that links with Mt Eliza.
Plan My Walk: weather, track alerts and a trip plan to share before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Eliza Mine Loop Track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed it as closed due to a significant slip. Check DOC for reopening.
How long does the Eliza Mine Loop Track take?
DOC gives 4–5 hr.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Advanced. There is a steep ridge and a river crossing.
Can I take my dog?
No dogs.
Where does it start?
At the Thompsons Track car park, off SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati.
What will I see?
The old pack track, the site of the miners’ camp and ore testing plant, the main mine entrance and a prospecting drive.
Can I climb Mt Eliza?
Yes. DOC says the summit is about 40 minutes from the mine.
Is there a hut nearby?
Motutapere Hut is 30 minutes north of the Mt Eliza Track and North-South Track junction.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.