Story: Bush trams and other log transport

In the early 1900s, steam-powered haulers largely replaced bullock teams. This typical New Zealand hauler weighed about 8 tonnes and was mounted on a portable wooden skid. It pulled logs from where they were felled to the bush trams. Haulers comprised a boiler to raise steam (right), a steam engine driving two drums (left), and steel cables. The larger drum skidded a log along the ground, then the smaller drum pulled the cable back out. Logs were hauled for up to 500 metres, attended by a ropey, who had a dirty and dangerous job. Above the driver is a rough shelter to protect him from the weather. The location is Gamman’s Mill, Mamaku, in 1928.

12–bullock team

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Ropey and hauled log

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